Mountain Dew Apple Dumplings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s so easy yet so impressive. The contrast of tender apples, flaky crescent roll pastry, and rich, syrupy sauce makes every bite irresistible. I also enjoy how unique the addition of Mountain Dew is it gives the dumplings a bubbly sweetness that caramelizes perfectly in the oven. It’s a nostalgic, cozy dessert that reminds me of home baking but with a fun twist.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

3 Granny Smith apples
16 crescent rolls 2 packages, refrigerated
1 stick salted butter melted
¾ cup white sugar
¾ cup light brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla
12 ounces of Mountain Dew soda

Directions

1. I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. I peel, core, and slice the apples into 8 wedges each.
3. I wrap each apple wedge in a crescent roll and place them seam-side down in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, I mix the melted butter with white sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla.
5. I spoon this mixture evenly over the dumplings.
6. I pour the Mountain Dew around (not over) the dumplings in the pan.
7. I bake for 35–40 minutes, until the dumplings are golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
8. I serve warm, often with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 16 dumplings, which usually serves 8 people. It takes me about 20 minutes to prepare and 40 minutes to bake.

Variations

Sometimes I swap Mountain Dew for Sprite or 7UP for a slightly different flavor. I also like to add a pinch of nutmeg to the sugar mixture for extra warmth. If I want a richer sauce, I reduce the amount of soda slightly and increase the butter. For a fun twist, I’ve even tried using peaches or pears instead of apples.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the dumplings in the oven at 325°F until heated through, or in the microwave for about 30 seconds per dumpling. I don’t recommend freezing them, since the pastry can become soggy after thawing.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, but I prefer tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the sweetness.

Do I have to peel the apples?

Yes, I always peel them because the skins can get tough when baked.

Can I make this with homemade crescent dough?

Yes, I sometimes use homemade dough, but the refrigerated rolls make it quick and easy.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

I prepare the apples and sugar mixture ahead, but I assemble and bake just before serving for best results.

How do I prevent the dumplings from getting soggy?

I bake them uncovered until they’re golden brown, which helps the tops stay flaky.

Can I cut back on the sugar?

Yes, I sometimes reduce the sugar by a third, and they’re still sweet and delicious.

Do these need to be refrigerated?

Yes, I store leftovers in the fridge to keep them fresh.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, I bake them in two pans if I need more servings.

What’s the best way to serve them?

I love serving them warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Conclusion

I love making these Mountain Dew Apple Dumplings because they’re simple, comforting, and always a crowd favorite. The combination of apples, crescent rolls, and fizzy soda turns into a magical dessert that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Every time I bake them, they disappear fast, and I always wish I had made more.

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