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This hearty Apple Pie Egg Rolls transform the classic American dessert into a handheld treat perfect for parties or casual family gatherings. The crispy wrapper encases warm, spiced apples and a surprise layer of cream cheese that elevates this fusion dessert beyond ordinary apple pie.
I first created these when looking for a fun dessert for my son's birthday party. The kids were delighted to eat "apple pie" with their hands, and now this recipe makes an appearance at nearly every family gathering by popular demand.
Ingredients
- Granny Smith apples: Provide the perfect tartness that balances the sweetness and holds their shape without turning mushy
- Light brown sugar: Adds a rich molasses flavor that complements the apples beautifully
- Ground cinnamon: Brings warm spice notes essential for that classic apple pie flavor
- Cornstarch: Helps thicken the apple juices, creating a luscious filling rather than a watery mess
- Egg roll wrappers: Offer a crispy yet substantial shell that bakes to golden perfection
- Cream cheese: Provides a surprising tangy richness that elevates these beyond simple apple turnovers
- Cooking oil: Ensures the exterior becomes perfectly crisp in the oven
- Granulated sugar and cinnamon mixture: Creates that irresistible coating reminiscent of carnival treats
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch, tossing until every piece is thoroughly coated. Allow the mixture to sit for about 5 minutes, which draws out the apple juices and begins dissolving the sugar, creating a light syrup.
- Create the Base:
- Place an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface positioned like a diamond. Spread 2 teaspoons of cream cheese across the center in a small rectangular shape, but not too close to the edges. The cream cheese acts as both a flavor enhancer and a moisture barrier that helps prevent the wrapper from becoming soggy from the apple filling.
- Add the Filling:
- Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the apple mixture onto the cream cheese, using a slotted spoon to leave excess liquid behind. Arrange the apples in a compact rectangle, avoiding overfilling which can cause bursting during baking. A properly filled egg roll contains enough filling to be satisfying but remains secure when sealed.
- Roll with Precision:
- Lightly moisten the wrapper edges with water using your fingertip or a small pastry brush. Fold the bottom corner up and over the filling, tucking it underneath slightly to create a tight cylinder. Fold both side corners toward the center creating an envelope shape, then continue rolling upward until you reach the top corner. Press firmly along the seamed edge to ensure a complete seal that will prevent leaking during baking.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Arrange the completed rolls on your parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them at least an inch apart to allow for even browning. Brush or spray each roll with a light coating of cooking oil, which promotes crispness and gorgeous golden color. Bake for 15 to 17 minutes, turning halfway through until the exterior is crisp and deep golden brown.
- Apply the Sweet Finishing Touch:
- While the egg rolls bake, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating by thoroughly mixing granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow dish. As soon as the egg rolls emerge from the oven, still hot, gently roll each one in the cinnamon sugar mixture ensuring an even coating on all sides. The heat from the freshly baked rolls helps the sweet mixture adhere, creating a delightful textural contrast.
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The cinnamon sugar coating is truly transformative in this recipe. I discovered this technique after trying various glazes and toppings, but nothing compared to the simple pleasure of that sweet spiced exterior that reminds me of the apple cider donuts my grandmother made every fall.
Make-Ahead Options
These apple pie egg rolls can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Simply arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow them to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before proceeding with the baking instructions. This make-ahead capability makes them perfect for entertaining when you want to minimize last-minute preparation.
Serving Suggestions
While these egg rolls are delicious on their own, they reach new heights when served with complementary accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a beautiful hot-and-cold contrast, while a drizzle of caramel sauce adds luxurious sweetness. For an adult gathering, consider pairing with a glass of late-harvest Riesling or apple brandy which echoes the fruity notes in the dessert. I also love serving them on a platter with fresh mint leaves and a light dusting of powdered sugar for visual appeal.
Creative Variations
The basic recipe offers endless possibilities for customization. Try adding 1/4 cup of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to the apple filling for delightful crunch and nutty flavor. For a holiday version, incorporate dried cranberries and orange zest. You can also experiment with different apple varieties like Honeycrisp for sweeter results or Braeburn for complex flavor. Some of my guests prefer a more subtle spice profile, so occasionally I replace the cinnamon with cardamom or add a pinch of nutmeg for warming complexity.
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These handheld desserts bring joy to every gathering—crispy, warm, and perfectly spiced—a sure crowd-pleaser!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these apple pie egg rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the egg rolls up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. For best results, brush with oil and bake them just before serving to ensure maximum crispness.
- → What can I substitute for Granny Smith apples?
Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Braeburn apples make excellent substitutes. Look for varieties that hold their shape when baked and offer a good balance of sweetness and tartness.
- → How do I store leftover apple pie egg rolls?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness. The microwave works in a pinch but may make them soggy.
- → Can I freeze these egg rolls?
Yes! Freeze assembled but unbaked egg rolls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 3-5 minutes to the baking time. Apply the cinnamon-sugar coating after baking.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with apple pie egg rolls?
Besides the recommended caramel sauce, try vanilla bean ice cream, cream cheese frosting thinned with a bit of milk, maple syrup, or even a bourbon-infused caramel for an adult version.
- → Can I make these without cream cheese?
Absolutely! You can omit the cream cheese entirely or substitute with 1-2 teaspoons of butter per egg roll for richness. Mascarpone cheese or a thick vanilla custard would also work nicely.