Apple Pie Egg Rolls: A Fun and Easy Dessert for Beginners

Apple pie is a timeless classic, but traditional recipes can take hours to prepare. If you love the flavors of apple pie but want a quicker, beginner-friendly alternative, apple pie egg rolls are the perfect solution. This recipe transforms a savory snack into a crispy, golden dessert filled with warm, cinnamon-spiced apples.

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For those new to cooking, this recipe is a great introduction to frying techniques and simple dessert assembly. It requires minimal ingredients, can be prepared in under 30 minutes, and offers flexibility in terms of fillings and toppings. The crispy texture of the egg roll wrapper paired with the soft, sweet apple filling makes each bite satisfying. Whether you are looking for a quick dessert to impress guests or a fun weekend baking project, apple pie egg rolls are a must-try.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients

• 3 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8 egg roll wrappers
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Whipped cream or caramel sauce, for serving (optional)

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Apples: Granny Smith apples are ideal due to their tartness, but Honeycrisp or Fuji apples work well for a sweeter version.
• Sugar: Brown sugar can be used instead of white sugar for a richer caramel-like flavor.
• Egg Roll Wrappers: If egg roll wrappers are unavailable, try using phyllo dough for a flakier alternative or wonton wrappers for bite-sized versions.
• Frying Oil: Canola or sunflower oil are good substitutes for vegetable oil.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Apple FillingIn a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the diced apples, lemon juice, cinnamon, and sugar. Stir to coat the apples evenly with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
2. Thicken the MixtureIn a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 1/3 cup of water until fully dissolved. Pour this mixture into the saucepan with the apples, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes until the apples have softened slightly and the mixture has thickened.
3. Cool the FillingRemove the apple mixture from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and transfer to a bowl to cool completely. Cooling the filling prevents the egg roll wrappers from becoming soggy during assembly.
4. Prepare the Egg Roll WrappersFill a small dish with water and line a baking sheet with paper towels. Lay out the egg roll wrappers on a dry, clean surface.
5. Assemble the Egg RollsUsing a slotted spoon, place about 1/4 cup of the apple filling in the lower third of each wrapper. Begin rolling the wrapper from the bottom, folding in the edges as you go. Once rolled, dip a finger into the water and run it along the edge to seal the egg roll shut.
6. Heat the OilIn a large, heavy-bottomed pot, add at least 4 inches of oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature. Once the oil reaches 360°F, it is ready for frying.
7. Fry the Egg RollsCarefully add 3 to 4 egg rolls at a time into the hot oil. Fry, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Repeat with the remaining egg rolls, ensuring the oil returns to 360°F between batches.
8. Serve and EnjoyServe the apple pie egg rolls immediately with whipped cream or caramel sauce for dipping. For extra flavor, sprinkle them with a dusting of cinnamon sugar.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• How to Tell If the Oil Is Ready: If you do not have a deep-fry thermometer, test the oil by dipping the edge of an egg roll wrapper into it. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is hot enough. If it does not, wait a little longer.
• Preventing Soggy Egg Rolls: Ensure the apple filling is fully cooled before assembling to avoid steam softening the wrappers. Frying at the right temperature also prevents oil absorption.
• Avoiding Overcooking: Keep an eye on the egg rolls while frying, as they cook quickly. If they brown too fast, lower the heat slightly.
• Sealing the Egg Rolls Properly: If the edges are not sealed well, the filling may leak during frying. Using water to seal the wrappers securely is crucial.

Alternative Cooking Methods

If deep frying is not an option, apple pie egg rolls can also be baked or air-fried for a lighter version.

• Baking Method: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Place the assembled egg rolls on a lined baking sheet and brush lightly with melted butter or oil. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
• Air Fryer Method: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the egg rolls in a single layer and lightly spray with oil. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through, until crispy and golden.

Serving Suggestions

• Dipping Sauces: Caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar enhance the flavor.
• Side Pairings: Pair with vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast between warm and cold textures.
• Garnishing Ideas: Sprinkle with crushed nuts or drizzle with honey for added crunch and sweetness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storing Leftovers: Keep leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in an oven at 350°F for 8 minutes or in an air fryer for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it makes the wrappers soggy.
• Freezing Instructions: Freeze uncooked egg rolls by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. Fry or bake directly from frozen, adding extra cooking time as needed.

Customizing the Recipe

For those who enjoy experimenting, this recipe can be adapted in several ways:

• Add Protein: For a heartier dessert, mix finely diced cooked chicken or beef with the apple filling. The mild savory contrast balances the sweetness of the apples.
• Spice Variations: Add nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom for extra warmth in the filling.
• Different Fillings: Swap apples for pears, peaches, or mixed berries for a fruity variation.

Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Beginners

Apple pie egg rolls require minimal ingredients and simple steps, making them accessible for those with little cooking experience. The process introduces key techniques such as thickening a filling, sealing wrappers, and frying at the right temperature. Unlike traditional apple pie, which involves making and rolling out dough, this recipe is straightforward and quick. The short preparation time makes it ideal for anyone looking for a fast and rewarding dessert without an extensive baking process.

The versatility of this recipe allows beginners to get creative, experiment with different fillings, and gain confidence in the kitchen. Since the frying process is quick, it provides instant results, making it a satisfying dish to prepare. Additionally, it requires basic kitchen tools that most home cooks already have, such as a saucepan, slotted spoon, and a frying pan or air fryer.

Conclusion

Apple pie egg rolls offer the perfect balance of simplicity, flavor, and texture. Whether you are new to cooking or looking for an easy dessert to make with friends or family, this recipe is a fantastic starting point. The combination of crispy wrappers and warm, cinnamon-spiced apples makes it a comforting treat that can be customized to suit different tastes.

Give this recipe a try and share your experience. What toppings or variations did you use? Leave a comment and let us know how your apple pie egg rolls turned out.