Apple Pie Egg Rolls combine the delicious flavors of apple pie with the crispy texture of egg rolls, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. These egg rolls are filled with a sweet apple mixture and cream cheese, then fried to perfection and topped with a cinnamon-sugar mixture and caramel sauce. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making these mouthwatering Apple Pie Egg Rolls.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 5 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and finely diced (~3½ cups)
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp cornstarch
- 22-24 egg roll wrappers
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
For Frying:
- Cooking oil or spray
For the Topping:
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup caramel topping, warmed
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
- Dice the Apples:
- Peel, core, and finely dice the Granny Smith apples. You should have about 3½ cups of diced apples.
- Mix the Filling:
- In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and cornstarch. Mix well to ensure the apples are evenly coated with the sugar and spices.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
- Prepare the Egg Roll Wrappers:
- Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a clean, dry surface. Keep the remaining wrappers covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.
- Add the Cream Cheese:
- Spread a small amount of cream cheese (about 1-2 teaspoons) in the center of the egg roll wrapper.
- Add the Apple Filling:
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the apple mixture on top of the cream cheese.
- Fold the Egg Roll:
- Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly. Seal the edges with a dab of water. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Step 3: Fry the Egg Rolls
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large, deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1-2 inches of cooking oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Egg Rolls:
- Carefully place a few egg rolls in the hot oil, seam side down. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Drain the Egg Rolls:
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Repeat with the remaining egg rolls.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- Mix Cinnamon and Sugar:
- In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Coat the Egg Rolls:
- While the egg rolls are still warm, sprinkle them with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Warm the Caramel Topping:
- Warm the caramel topping in the microwave or on the stovetop until it’s pourable.
Step 5: Serve
- Drizzle with Caramel:
- Drizzle the warm caramel topping over the egg rolls.
- Serve:
- Serve the Apple Pie Egg Rolls warm. Enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Apples: Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, but you can use any apple variety you prefer.
- Frying: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture. A kitchen thermometer is helpful for this.
Variations:
- Baked Apple Pie Egg Rolls:
- For a healthier option, bake the egg rolls at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
- Nutty Apple Pie Egg Rolls:
- Add 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for added crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the egg rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. Alternatively, you can freeze the assembled egg rolls and fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the frying time.
2. How do I store leftover egg rolls?
Store any leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone cheese or ricotta cheese for a different flavor.
4. What dipping sauces go well with these egg rolls?
In addition to caramel sauce, you can serve these egg rolls with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
5. Can I use spring roll wrappers instead of egg roll wrappers?
Yes, you can use spring roll wrappers, but the texture will be slightly different. Spring roll wrappers are thinner and crispier compared to egg roll wrappers.
The Delight of Apple Pie Egg Rolls
Apple Pie Egg Rolls are a delicious and fun twist on the classic apple pie. These crispy, sweet treats are perfect for any occasion and are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re making them for a special event or just to enjoy at home, this recipe is easy to follow and yields mouthwatering results.
Tips for Success
- Seal Well: Ensure the egg rolls are tightly sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) for the best results. Too hot and the egg rolls will burn; too cool and they will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Serve Warm: These egg rolls are best served warm, straight from the fryer.
Apple Pie Egg Rolls are a delightful and unique dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the flavors of apple pie and the crispy texture of egg rolls. With their sweet apple filling, creamy cheese layer, and crunchy exterior, these egg rolls are sure to become a favorite. Try this recipe for your next gathering or as a special treat, and enjoy the deliciousness of Apple Pie Egg Rolls. Happy cooking!
