If you crave the nostalgia of classic apple pie with a clever, crispy twist, Baked Apple Pie Rice Paper Rolls are about to become your new obsession. Imagine warmly spiced apple filling wrapped in delightfully crunchy rice paper, all baked until golden and delicious. The best part? They’re easy enough for a spontaneous weeknight treat and special enough for a showstopper dessert. Whether you want to impress guests or jazz up family night, these rolls deliver the dreamy comfort of apple pie in a finger-friendly package.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dessert is proof that simple ingredients lead to spectacular results. Each component brings its own flair: the apples are juicy and tart, the spices are warming, and the rice paper turns wonderfully crisp in the oven. Here’s a look at what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Apples: Two large Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced — choose tart apples for the best flavor pop.
- Lemon juice: The juice of one lemon keeps your apples bright and balances the sweetness.
- Coconut oil or butter: Adds richness and helps all those lovely flavors meld.
- Brown sugar: Delivers a deep, caramelly note that pairs beautifully with apples.
- Ground cinnamon: The essential apple pie spice — don’t skimp!
- Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch brings extra warmth and depth.
- Cornstarch: Thickens the filling so it’s luscious, not runny.
- Water: Needed to activate the cornstarch — you only need a splash.
- Rice paper sheets: The secret to crispy, gluten-free rolls. You’ll need 8–10 for a batch.
- Cooking spray or melted butter: A quick brush or spray ensures your rolls bake up gorgeously golden.
How to Make Baked Apple Pie Rice Paper Rolls
Step 1: Make the Apple Filling
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper, so your rolls won’t stick. Over medium heat, melt your coconut oil or butter in a skillet, then add the diced apples, lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook this mixture for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring regularly, until the apples just begin to soften and the kitchen smells incredible.
Step 2: Thicken the Filling
Mix the cornstarch and water together in a small bowl until smooth — this little slurry is your secret for getting that apple pie texture. Stir it into the skillet, then keep cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes. As the mixture thickens, you’ll notice it turns glossy and coats the apples. Once thickened, remove from the heat and let the filling cool slightly; this makes rolling much easier.
Step 3: Soften the Rice Paper
Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Working with one rice paper sheet at a time, dip it into the water for about 10 to 15 seconds until it softens and becomes pliable—but not so long that it turns mushy. Place the softened sheet onto a clean surface, ready for filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of your apple pie filling onto the center of the rice paper sheet. Fold the bottom edge up over the filling, tuck in the sides just like a burrito, and then roll it up tightly. This step is super satisfying (and slightly therapeutic!)—repeat with the rest of your filling and rice paper sheets.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the filled Baked Apple Pie Rice Paper Rolls seam-side down on your lined baking sheet. Lightly spray or brush the tops with melted butter or a neutral cooking spray, ensuring they’ll crisp up beautifully. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping each roll halfway through, until both sides are golden and delightfully crunchy. Give them a moment to cool before serving—they’ll be piping hot!
How to Serve Baked Apple Pie Rice Paper Rolls
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, try dusting your rolls with powdered sugar, a pinch more cinnamon, or even a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. These little extras instantly transform your Baked Apple Pie Rice Paper Rolls from humble to heavenly!
Side Dishes
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream straight from the freezer is classic, but don’t overlook whipped cream, vanilla yogurt, or a side of fresh berries. Their cool, airy texture balances the crisp, spiced rolls perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the rolls stacked on a platter for family style, or slice them in half on a bias for a clever appetizer tray. For an interactive dessert, let guests dip the rolls in caramel or even chocolate sauce. Presentation is half the fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Baked Apple Pie Rice Paper Rolls should be cooled completely before storing. Pop them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to three days. The rice paper may soften, but they’ll still have great flavor.
Freezing
Planning ahead? You can assemble and freeze the unbaked rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for a just-like-fresh treat.
Reheating
To recrisp, bake leftover rolls at 350°F (177°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until heated through and the outside is snappy again. Skip the microwave, as it tends to make the rice paper a little too chewy.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits besides apples?
Absolutely! Pears or peaches (especially when they’re in season) swap in beautifully, though you may want to adjust spices and sugar to taste for different fruits.
Are Baked Apple Pie Rice Paper Rolls gluten-free?
Yes, since rice paper is naturally gluten-free, these rolls are a fantastic dessert for anyone with gluten sensitivities. Always double-check your other ingredients just in case.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Definitely. Prepare the apple filling up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It streamlines assembly and actually helps the flavors deepen.
How do I prevent the rice paper from tearing?
Be gentle when softening rice paper and avoid soaking it too long. Lay it flat on a damp towel to fill and roll, and don’t overload with filling for best results.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
For a crispy exterior, always reheat Baked Apple Pie Rice Paper Rolls in the oven rather than the microwave. A quick stint in a hot oven revives their irresistibly crunchy texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to fall in love with a new twist on classic comfort, Baked Apple Pie Rice Paper Rolls are sure to delight. Gather your apples and rice paper, roll up a batch, and let yourself savor every cinnamony, crispy bite—don’t be surprised if they disappear before you know it!
