Name: Apple Pie Egg Rolls
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 cups apples (peeled, cored, and diced); 0.25 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons butter; 12 egg roll wrappers; 1 egg (beaten, for sealing); 3 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

You know those nights when you’re just craving something sweet, something that tastes like pure comfort, but the thought of pulling out all the baking pans and ingredients for a whole apple pie feels… well, a little too much? Yeah, I get it. We’ve all been there. That’s exactly how this little gem, my Apple Pie Egg Rolls, came to be. It all started one blustery fall evening when the apple pie craving hit HARD. I had a hankering for those warm, spiced apples and flaky crust, but also a deadline looming and only about an hour to spare. So, I did what any slightly desperate but determined home cook would do: I looked around my kitchen for a shortcut. And there they were – a package of egg roll wrappers staring back at me. Suddenly, inspiration struck! What if I could capture all the cozy, delicious flavors of a classic apple pie but serve it up in a crispy, handheld, ridiculously easy-to-make package? The result? Absolute magic. These Apple Pie Egg Rolls are now a staple in my house, a true lifesaver on busy weeknights and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering. They’re like a little hug in every bite, and honestly, they’re even better than they sound. Get ready, because your sweet tooth is about to thank you!

What are Apple Pie Egg Rolls?

So, what exactly are these delightful little treats? Think of them as your favorite apple pie, just wrapped up in a thin, crispy blanket of pure joy. Instead of a traditional pastry crust, we’re using those super convenient egg roll wrappers you can find in almost any grocery store. Inside, you’ll find a warm, spiced apple filling – the kind that makes your kitchen smell like autumn itself. We’re talking tender chunks of apple, a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, maybe a touch of Brown Sugar to sweeten it up just right. Then, these little parcels are fried until they’re golden brown and shatteringly crisp. It’s essentially a handheld dessert experience, combining the comforting flavors of apple pie with the addictive crunch of a perfectly fried egg roll. It’s a concept that sounds a little unusual at first, I know, but trust me, it works like a charm. It’s familiar yet exciting, comforting yet delightfully different. It’s the best of both worlds, really, and I think that’s why everyone who tries them falls head over heels!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

There are so many reasons why this apple pie Egg Roll recipe has become my go-to, and I’m pretty sure you’re going to feel the same way. Let’s start with the obvious: the flavor! Oh my goodness, the flavor! You get that unmistakable warm apple pie taste – the sweet, slightly tart apples mingling with fragrant cinnamon and nutmeg, all wrapped in that wonderfully crispy wrapper. It’s like a flavor explosion in every single bite. But it’s not just about taste, is it? The *texture* is phenomenal. That satisfying crunch when you bite into an egg roll, followed by the soft, warm apple filling? It’s addictive, pure and simple. What I also adore about this recipe is how incredibly easy it is to make. Seriously, even if you’re not usually one for baking or cooking, you can totally nail this. It’s so much simpler and quicker than making a full apple pie from scratch. And the ingredients? They’re all super budget-friendly and readily available. You probably have half of them in your pantry right now! Plus, these are incredibly versatile. You can serve them for breakfast (yes, really!), as a delightful dessert, or even as a fancy appetizer. They’re perfect for parties because they’re grab-and-go, and they’re a total lifesaver for when you need a sweet treat without a lot of fuss. They’re also fantastic for using up any leftover apples you might have hanging around. What I love most about them is the pure comfort they bring. It’s like a little taste of home, a warm hug on a plate, and knowing I can whip them up in under an hour makes them that much more special. They truly are a game-changer when you want that apple pie goodness without all the work.

How do I make Apple Pie Egg Rolls?

Quick Overview

Making these Apple Pie egg rolls is surprisingly straightforward. We’ll start by quickly sautéing some chopped apples with our favorite pie spices and a touch of sweetener until they’re just tender. Then, we’ll spoon this warm, fragrant filling into egg roll wrappers, fold them up neatly, and pan-fry or air-fry them until they’re gloriously golden and crisp. A quick drizzle of glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar is the perfect finishing touch. It’s a simple process that delivers an incredibly satisfying sweet treat in no time at all. You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can taste so incredibly good!

Ingredients

For the Apple Filling:
4 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (about 4 medium apples, a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works beautifully for a good balance of tartness and sweetness)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar (you can adjust this based on how sweet your apples are and your personal preference)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice (this brightens up the flavor and helps prevent browning)
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour or cornstarch (to thicken the filling slightly)

For Assembling the Egg Rolls:
1 package (about 12-15) egg roll wrappers (found in the produce or refrigerated section of most grocery stores)
1/4 cup water (for sealing the wrappers)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour (to mix with water for sealing)
Oil for frying (vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are good choices for pan-frying; you’ll need about 1-2 inches for deep frying, or just a tablespoon or two for pan-frying)

For the Optional Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons milk (or half-and-half for a richer glaze)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

If you’re pan-frying, grab a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or frying pan and pour in about 1/4 inch of your chosen cooking oil. We want the oil to be hot enough to sizzle immediately when an egg roll touches it, but not so hot that it smokes excessively. A good medium-high heat is usually perfect. If you’re deep frying, fill your pot or Dutch oven with about 1-2 inches of oil and heat it to 350°F (175°C). For air frying, preheat your Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C). It’s crucial to have your cooking method ready *before* you start rolling the egg rolls, as they are best fried right away.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/4 cup of water. This is our “glue” to seal the egg rolls. Set it aside. In another small bowl, combine the 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. We’ll add this to the apples in a moment.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In your skillet (where you’ll cook the filling), melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and begins to shimmer, add your diced apples. Stir them around to coat them in the butter. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples start to soften slightly but still hold their shape. We don’t want mushy apples!

Step 4: Combine

Add the packed light brown sugar, the cinnamon-nutmeg mixture, and the lemon juice to the skillet with the apples. Stir everything together well. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sugar to melt and the flavors to meld. Now, sprinkle in the 1 tablespoon of flour or cornstarch and stir it in quickly. This will help thicken the apple mixture as it cools. Cook for just one more minute, stirring constantly. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the apple filling cool down completely. This is important because hot filling can make the egg roll wrappers tear or become too soft to handle. While it cools, prepare your workstation: lay out your egg roll wrappers, have your sealing paste and a plate ready for the finished rolls.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

Ensure your apple filling has cooled to room temperature. It should be thick enough to hold its shape but still moist. If it seems too watery, you can drain off a little excess liquid, but be careful not to lose all that delicious flavor! If it seems too dry, you can add a tiny splash of apple juice or water. Taste it – does it need a little more cinnamon? A touch more sugar? This is your chance to customize it to your liking. Remember, the flavors will intensify slightly as they cook.

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

To assemble the egg rolls, lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean, dry surface with one corner pointing towards you (like a diamond). Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the cooled apple filling in the center, towards the bottom corner. Now, fold the bottom corner up and over the filling, tucking it in snugly. Fold in the left and right sides towards the center, creating a neat package. Then, tightly roll the entire thing upwards towards the top corner. Dip your finger in the flour-water paste and moisten the top corner, then seal the egg roll firmly. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling. Make sure they are sealed well to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying!

Step 7: Bake

For Pan-Frying: Carefully place the assembled egg rolls, seam-side down, into the preheated oil. Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are a deep golden brown and wonderfully crisp. Use tongs to carefully turn them. For Deep Frying: Carefully lower 3-4 egg rolls at a time into the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy. For Air Frying: Lightly brush the egg rolls with a little oil. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Whichever method you choose, the key is to get them beautifully golden and crunchy!

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

Once they’re perfectly fried and crispy, carefully remove the egg rolls from the oil with a slotted spoon or tongs and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows any excess oil to drain off, keeping them from getting soggy. Let them cool for a few minutes. If you’re adding the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (start with 2 tablespoons and add more if needed to reach your desired consistency), and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. It should be thick enough to coat but thin enough to drizzle. Drizzle the glaze over the warm egg rolls. You can also opt for a simple dusting of powdered sugar if you prefer!

Step 9: Slice & Serve

These are best served warm, when the wrapper is at its crispiest and the filling is gooey and delicious. You can slice them in half diagonally for a prettier presentation, or just serve them whole. They’re fantastic on their own, but if you want to go the extra mile, a small scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side is divine! Enjoy that perfect crunch and warm, spiced apple goodness!

What to Serve It With

These Apple Pie Egg Rolls are so versatile, they honestly fit into almost any meal or occasion. For a truly decadent breakfast, I love serving them alongside a strong cup of coffee. The sweetness of the egg rolls is the perfect counterpoint to a rich, dark roast. Imagine a crisp autumn morning, you’ve got your coffee steaming, and these warm, spiced beauties are on your plate – pure bliss! For a brunch setting, they really shine. I like to arrange them artfully on a platter, perhaps with a small bowl of caramel sauce for dipping, and pair them with a mimosa or a sparkling cider. They feel special and festive, making any brunch feel a little more elegant. As a dessert, well, they’re a no-brainer! They’re a fantastic alternative to a traditional pie, especially if you’re serving a crowd. They’re easy to handle, and everyone loves a handheld treat. Serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream is a classic pairing that never fails. For cozy snacks, these are my absolute secret weapon. When that 10 PM craving hits, but I don’t want to commit to a whole dessert, these are perfect. They’re satisfying, comforting, and incredibly quick to make. My family loves them after dinner, or even as a special treat on a movie night. I’ve even taken them to potlucks, and they always disappear in minutes! Honestly, the best way to serve them is however makes you happy, but my personal favorite family tradition is to have them on the first chilly evening of fall, right after we’ve finished raking leaves – it just feels like the ultimate reward!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Apple Pie Egg Rolls

Over the years, I’ve definitely picked up a few tricks and learned from a few kitchen mishaps that I’m happy to share with you! When it comes to the apple filling, the key is to get the apples tender but not mushy. I like to use a mix of apples, like Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness and a good texture. Dicing them to about 1/4-inch cubes ensures they cook evenly and distribute well in the egg rolls. Don’t skip the lemon juice; it really brightens the flavor and prevents the apples from turning an unappetizing brown color. For the filling consistency, the flour or cornstarch is your best friend. Make sure it’s cooled completely before filling the wrappers – this is crucial for preventing tears and making the rolling process much easier. If your filling seems a bit too wet, drain off a little excess liquid, but taste it first! You don’t want to lose that delicious spiced apple flavor. When it comes to assembling, the seal is everything! Make sure you use enough of that flour-water paste to really seal the edges well. I learned this the hard way when a few of my early attempts sprung leaks during frying, creating a bit of a mess. Now, I’m generous with the paste and press firmly. As for the wrappers, they can dry out quickly, so I always recommend keeping them covered with a damp kitchen towel while you work. If you find they’re a little stiff, a quick brush with a little water can help make them more pliable. For frying, whether you’re pan-frying, deep-frying, or air-frying, the temperature is key. Too low, and they’ll be greasy; too high, and they’ll burn before they’re cooked through. Aim for that beautiful golden brown color, which usually takes just a few minutes. My personal preference is air frying because it’s a bit healthier and still yields a wonderfully crispy result with minimal oil. If you’re pan-frying, make sure you have enough oil but not too much that they become greasy. And for the glaze, consistency is important. You want it thick enough to cling to the egg rolls without running off, but thin enough to drizzle easily. Start with less milk and add more gradually until you achieve that perfect ribbon-like consistency. If you accidentally make it too thin, just whisk in a little more powdered sugar. These little tweaks can really elevate your Apple Pie Egg Rolls from good to absolutely unforgettable!

Storing and Reheating Tips

These Apple Pie Egg Rolls are truly best when they’re fresh and hot, right out of the fryer or air fryer. However, life happens, and sometimes you’ll have leftovers, or you might want to make them ahead. If you have any that magically survive the initial devour-fest, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. They might lose a little of their crispiness, but they’ll still be delicious. For longer storage, your refrigerator is the best bet. Place them in an airtight container, and they should stay good for about 3-4 days. I usually put a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together. Now, if you want to freeze them for a future craving emergency, I’ve got you covered! Once they’re completely cooled, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the frozen egg rolls to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to reheat them, the goal is to bring back that glorious crispiness. The oven or toaster oven is your best friend here! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the leftover egg rolls on a baking sheet and bake for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. For frozen ones, you can often go straight from the freezer to the oven, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. The air fryer works wonders for reheating too – just a few minutes at 350°F until they’re warm and crisp. I usually avoid the microwave if crispiness is a priority, as it tends to make them a bit soft and chewy. If you’ve glazed them, I find they’re best served as is after reheating, as the glaze can get a bit sticky if reheated. For unfrosted ones, you can add a fresh dusting of powdered sugar or a quick drizzle of glaze after reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, you’ll want to use gluten-free egg roll wrappers, which are becoming more readily available. You might find them made from rice flour or other blends. The apple filling itself is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure all your other ingredients, like spices and sweeteners, are also certified gluten-free. The texture might vary slightly depending on the brand of gluten-free wrappers you use, but the delicious flavor will still be there!

Do I need to peel the zucchini?

Wait, zucchini? I think you might be thinking of a different recipe! This is for Apple Pie Egg Rolls, and there’s no zucchini involved. We’re all about those delicious apples and crispy wrappers here! If you were curious about peeling the apples, I recommend it for a smoother texture, but it’s not strictly necessary if you prefer a slightly more rustic feel.

Can I make this as muffins instead?

That’s an interesting idea! While it won’t be “egg rolls” anymore, you could definitely adapt the apple filling into a muffin batter. You’d prepare the apple filling as directed, then incorporate it into your favorite muffin recipe, perhaps adding some chopped nuts or extra spices. You’d then bake them as muffins according to your recipe’s instructions, and you could still add a cinnamon-sugar topping or a drizzle of glaze once they’re cooled. It would be a delicious apple muffin, for sure!

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

This is so easy to customize! The amount of brown sugar in the filling can be adjusted. If your apples are very sweet, you might only need 2-3 tablespoons. If they’re quite tart, you might go up to 1/4 cup or even a touch more. You can also use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey (though they may add a slight flavor), adjusting the amount to taste. For the glaze, you can simply use less milk to make it thicker and less sweet, or omit it entirely and just dust with powdered sugar.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

The glaze is lovely, but not essential! If you prefer, you can simply dust the cooled egg rolls with powdered sugar. Another popular option is to toss them with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar right after they come out of the fryer while they’re still warm. A drizzle of caramel sauce or even a dollop of whipped cream on the side is also a fantastic alternative for serving. Sometimes, I just let them be – they’re delicious enough on their own!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my beloved Apple Pie Egg Rolls! I really hope you give these a try. They’re such a fun and delicious way to enjoy all those comforting apple pie flavors without all the fuss. They’ve become a go-to for me when I need a quick dessert, a special treat, or just want to impress my family with something surprisingly easy. The combination of that crispy wrapper and warm, spiced apple filling is truly something special, and I’m so excited for you to experience it. If you love apple desserts, you might also enjoy my Spiced Apple Crumble Bars or my Quick Apple Cinnamon Scones. They’re all wonderful ways to celebrate the season! Don’t be shy about making them your own, either – a little extra cinnamon, some chopped pecans in the filling, or a different glaze can make them uniquely yours. I can’t wait to hear what you think! Please leave a comment below to let me know how your Apple Pie Egg Rolls turned out, or share any fun variations you came up with. Happy baking (and frying)!