Strawberry dumplings are a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the flaky, buttery goodness of crescent roll dough. This recipe is perfect for those who want a quick and easy treat that’s sure to impress. The addition of soda gives the dumplings a unique texture and flavor, making them irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 (8 oz) cans crescent roll dough
- 1 1/2 cups sliced fresh strawberries, divided
- 3/4 cup butter
- 1 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 cup 7Up or Sprite soda
Instructions
Preparing the Dumplings
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Strawberries:
- Wash and slice the fresh strawberries. Set aside 1 cup for the filling and the remaining 1/2 cup for topping.
- Roll the Dumplings:
- Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles.
- Place a few slices of strawberries at the wider end of each triangle.
- Roll up the dough starting from the wide end, tucking in the sides as you go to seal the strawberries inside.
- Place each rolled dumpling into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Making the Sauce
- Melt the Butter:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add Brown Sugar and Flavorings:
- Stir in the brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and lemon juice until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the Sauce:
- Pour the sauce evenly over the strawberry-filled dumplings in the baking dish.
Baking the Dumplings
- Add the Soda:
- Carefully pour the 7Up or Sprite around the edges of the baking dish, not directly over the dumplings.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the dumplings are golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
Serving
- Cool Slightly:
- Allow the dumplings to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish:
- Top the dumplings with the remaining sliced strawberries for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Serve:
- Serve the strawberry dumplings warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Cook’s Notes and Variations
- Fruit Variations: Feel free to substitute the strawberries with other fruits like peaches, apples, or blueberries for different flavors.
- Soda Substitute: You can use other clear sodas like ginger ale or lemon-lime soda if you don’t have 7Up or Sprite.
- Spice Adjustments: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Texture: For a slightly crispier texture, sprinkle a bit of granulated sugar over the top of the dumplings before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries? A: Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before using to prevent excess moisture.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: You can prepare the dumplings and the sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to bake them just before serving for optimal freshness and texture.
Q: What if I don’t have crescent roll dough? A: You can use puff pastry or even biscuit dough as a substitute. Adjust the baking time as needed.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe? A: Yes, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar in the sauce to suit your taste preferences.
Q: How should I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Use gluten-free crescent roll dough and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free to make a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Strawberry dumplings are a simple yet impressive dessert that brings together the flavors of fresh strawberries and buttery crescent roll dough. This recipe is perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with family and friends. With its delightful combination of sweet and tart, this dessert is a must-try for strawberry lovers. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this quick and satisfying treat!