These Baked Apple Pie Rice Paper Rolls are a fun twist on a classic treat! Crunchy on the outside with warm, spiced apples inside, they’re sure to please everyone.
Who knew rice paper could hold such deliciousness? I love to serve them with a scoop of ice cream on the side. Talk about a sweet combo! 🍏🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice Paper Wrappers: These are the base for your rolls. You can find them in most grocery stores or Asian markets. If you need a gluten-free option, rice paper is perfect! Corn tortillas can also work if you’re in a pinch, though they will taste different.
Apples: Granny Smith adds a nice tartness, while Gala gives sweetness. Feel free to mix different types of apples based on what you like or have on hand. Pears can be a tasty substitute too!
Brown Sugar: This gives a lovely caramel flavor. For a healthier option, you could use coconut sugar or honey in a smaller amount. Just remember to adjust the quantity a bit since honey is sweeter.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth to the filling. You can use apple pie spice mix if you have it. Just a teaspoon will do!
Butter or Coconut Oil: I use butter for its rich flavor, but coconut oil is great for a dairy-free option. Olive oil can also work if you’re in a hurry.
How Do I Perfectly Roll Rice Paper?
Rolling rice paper can seem tricky at first, but it gets easier with practice. The key is to work quickly and gently. Here’s how to do it:
- Soak the rice paper in warm water until it’s soft, around 10-15 seconds. It should still have a bit of firmness.
- Lay it on a clean surface and add the filling towards one edge. Be careful not to overfill; 2-3 tablespoons is perfect.
- Fold the sides in first, then roll it tightly starting from the edge with the filling. Keep it snug, but don’t force it.
- If the edges break a little, don’t worry! Just roll it tighter and your filling will still be delicious.
With these tips, you’ll have beautiful, neat rolls ready for baking in no time!
Baked Apple Pie Rice Paper Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Rolls:
- 4 large rice paper wrappers
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Gala), peeled, cored, and diced
For The Filling:
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
For Brushing:
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or coconut oil (for brushing)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped nuts (e.g., almonds or walnuts)
- Fresh mint leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 30 minutes for preparation and cooking. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes making the filling and assembling the rolls, followed by about 15-20 minutes of baking time. It’s a quick and fun dessert to whip up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apple Filling:
Start by heating a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together to ensure the apples are well-coated with sugar and spices.
2. Cook the Filling:
Cook this mixture while stirring occasionally until the apples begin to soften, which should take about 5-7 minutes. You want them slightly tender, but still holding their shape.
3. Thicken the Filling:
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Pour this slurry into the apple mixture, cooking it for another 1-2 minutes until it thickens. Once thick, remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
4. Preheat the Oven:
While the filling cools, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
5. Assemble the Rolls:
Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper wrapper into the water for about 10-15 seconds, until it is soft but still a bit firm. Carefully lay it flat on a clean surface.
6. Fill and Roll:
Take about 2-3 tablespoons of the apple filling and place it near the edge of the wrapper. Fold in the sides and roll it tightly to seal, similar to making a spring roll. Repeat this process for the remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Brush with Butter:
Place the rolled rice paper on the prepared baking sheet. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush each roll with melted butter or coconut oil to help them crisp up while baking.
8. Bake:
Bake your rolls in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time. They should turn golden brown and crispy!
9. Serve:
Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm, optionally sprinkled with chopped nuts and garnished with fresh mint. They are delightful on their own or enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzled with caramel sauce.
Enjoy your crispy, baked apple pie rice paper rolls!
Can I Use Frozen Apples for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen apples! Just make sure to thaw them completely, drain any excess liquid, and possibly cook them a bit longer to ensure they’re tender. This can save you time when making the filling!
How Do I Store Leftover Rice Paper Rolls?
Store any leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to help restore their crispiness.
Can I Make These Rolls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and assemble the rolls just before baking. Keep the assembled rolls covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out while you prepare the rest.
What If I Don’t Have Rice Paper?
If rice paper isn’t available, you can use spring roll wrappers or even phyllo dough as an alternative. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary, so watch them closely while baking to ensure they don’t burn.
