If you’re searching for a dessert that’s easy, unique, and guaranteed to wow a crowd, these Mountain Dew Apple Dumplings are it. This classic Southern-inspired recipe wraps crisp apples in buttery crescent rolls, then bakes them in a sweet mixture of butter, sugar, cinnamon, and Mountain Dew. The soda creates a caramel-like syrup that soaks into the dumplings while keeping them tender and gooey.
It’s a recipe that sounds unusual but delivers pure comfort food magic. With only a handful of ingredients, you can have this dessert ready in under an hour. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight treats, these dumplings are a fun way to enjoy apples in a whole new form.
Ingredients
- 2 medium Granny Smith apples (or any tart variety)
- 2 (8 oz) cans refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (12 oz) can Mountain Dew soda
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prep the Apples
- Peel, core, and cut apples into 8 wedges each (16 wedges total).
Step 2: Wrap in Dough
- Unroll crescent roll dough. Place an apple wedge at the wide end of each triangle and roll up tightly. Place seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla until combined (mixture will be grainy). Pour evenly over dumplings.
Step 4: Add the Soda
- Carefully pour Mountain Dew around the edges and between dumplings (not directly on top). This creates the syrupy base.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, until dumplings are golden brown and sauce is bubbling.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
Variation
- Peach Dumplings: Replace apples with peach slices for a summer version.
- Caramel Twist: Drizzle caramel sauce over baked dumplings.
- Nutty Dumplings: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
- Diet Soda Version: Swap regular Mountain Dew for diet soda to reduce sugar.
- Spiced Soda Dumplings: Try using ginger ale or cream soda for a flavor twist.
Cooking Notes
- Granny Smith apples work best—they hold shape and balance sweetness.
- Pour soda around the edges only to avoid soggy tops.
- Let dumplings rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so sauce thickens.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
- Pair with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
- Great addition to holiday dessert tables.
- Serve as a potluck dessert that everyone will talk about.
Tips
- Use cold crescent dough for easier rolling.
- Don’t skip the soda—it creates the caramel-like syrup.
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge; reheat in oven for best texture.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: ~55 minutes
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx. 16 servings)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 2g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 14g
- Sodium: 250mg
FAQs
Q1: Can I use other sodas besides Mountain Dew?
- Yes, Sprite, 7UP, or ginger ale also work well.
Q2: Can I make these dumplings ahead of time?
- They’re best fresh, but you can prep and refrigerate unbaked dumplings, then bake when ready.
Q3: Can I freeze Mountain Dew Apple Dumplings?
- Yes, freeze baked dumplings for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in oven.
Q4: Do I need to peel the apples?
- Peeling gives a softer texture, but you can leave skins on for rustic style.
Q5: Can I reduce the sugar?
- Yes, cut sugar to 1 cup for a slightly less sweet dessert.
Conclusion
These Mountain Dew Apple Dumplings are a one-of-a-kind dessert—flaky, buttery, and soaked in a caramel-like syrup that comes together effortlessly with soda. They’re quick, delicious, and guaranteed to impress at any gathering. Whether you serve them for the holidays, at a potluck, or as a simple weeknight treat, they’ll quickly become a family favorite.