Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful and comforting dessert that combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and apples with a flaky pastry, this crescent roll apple dessert is a perfect choice. It’s easy to make and ideal for sharing with family and friends. Here’s how to whip up this delicious treat!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 (8-ounce) cans refrigerated crescent rolls
5 Granny Smith apples, peeled, sliced, and cut into 1 to 2-inch pieces
1 tablespoon lemon juice
¼ cup water
⅔ cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
¼ teaspoon salt
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 8
This crescent roll apple dessert is not only simple to prepare but also delivers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Enjoy it warm with your favorite toppings! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, ensuring you can savor this delicious dish even after the main event.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a large baking sheet or baking stone by lining it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cook the Apples
In a large skillet set over medium heat, combine the sliced Granny Smith apples, lemon juice, and water. Cook the mixture until the apples start to soften, which should take about 7 to 9 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Sugar Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg (if desired), and salt.
Step 4: Combine and Thicken
Add the prepared sugar mixture to the skillet containing the apples. Stir well to coat the apples in the mixture. Continue cooking for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, or until the syrup thickens, stirring frequently. Once thickened, remove the skillet from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 5: Arrange the Crescent Roll Dough
Open the tubes of crescent rolls and separate the dough into triangles. On the prepared baking sheet, arrange the triangles in a circular pattern, overlapping the wide ends to create a sun shape. Press down on the overlapping sections to adhere.
Step 6: Fill the Crescent Rolls
Evenly spoon the cooled apple mixture onto the overlapping crescent dough in the center of the ring.
Step 7: Fold Over the Dough
Take the pointed ends of the crescent rolls and fold them over the apple filling. Tuck the tips securely under the dough to keep everything in place.
Step 8: Bake the Dish
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the crescent dough turns a beautiful golden brown.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and slice it into portions. Serve warm, optionally adding icing, powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce and pecans on top.
Notes
Storage
Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Cook techniques
Prepping the Apples
Start by peeling and slicing the Granny Smith apples. Cut them into 1 to 2-inch pieces to ensure they cook evenly and maintain a good texture in the final dish.
Sautéing the Apples
In a skillet, combine the apple pieces with lemon juice and water. Cooking the apples over medium heat softens them, enhancing their natural sweetness and flavor while allowing them to absorb the lemon juice’s brightness.
Thickening the Filling
Whisk together brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl. This mixture will thicken the juices from the apples into a syrup, making the filling rich and cohesive.
Assembly Technique
When arranging the crescent roll triangles on the baking sheet, position them in a circular pattern with overlapping edges to create a “ring.” This design allows for even baking and aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Sealing the Filling
After spooning the apple mixture onto the crescent dough, fold the pointed ends over the filling and tuck them under. This secures the filling inside, preventing any spillage during baking.
Baking to Perfection
Bake in a preheated oven until the crescent dough is golden brown. This step is critical as it achieves a flaky crust while ensuring the filling is thoroughly heated through.
Serving Suggestions
For an indulgent touch, slice and serve warm topped with options like icing, powdered sugar, or caramel sauce, enhancing the dessert experience.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, you can use other varieties of apples, but Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness which balances the sweetness of the brown sugar.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the apple filling ahead of time and assemble the dish before baking.
What can I substitute for cornstarch?
You can use all-purpose flour as a substitute for cornstarch, but the texture may vary slightly.
Is it necessary to use lemon juice?
While it’s not strictly necessary, lemon juice helps to brighten the flavors and prevent the apples from browning.
Conclusion
This delightful apple crescent ring combines the sweet and tart flavors of Granny Smith apples with warm spices, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Its flaky crust, along with the gooey apple filling, creates a delightful balance that is sure to please both family and friends. Served warm with optional toppings, this recipe is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser.
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