The Pioneer Woman's Apple Dumplings

Just in case you're one of the few foodie scrappers who doesn't know about The Pioneer Woman's apple dumplings, you're in for a treat. I call these the Lipitor special dessert.

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Here's her version. This text doesn't do justice to the photos and commentary and reader comments on her blog. Be sure to check out her blog.

Apple Dumplings

2 Granny Smith apples
2 cans crescent rolls
2 sticks butter
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 teaspoons vanilla
cinnamon
1 small can Mountain Dew

Peel and core apples. Cut apples into 8 slices each. Roll each apple slice in a crescent roll. Place in a 9 x 13 buttered pan. Melt butter, then add sugar and barely stir. Add vanilla, stir, and pour over apples. Pour Mountain Dew around the edges of the pan. Sprinkle with cinnamon and bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes. Serve with ice cream, and spoon some of the sweet sauces from the pan over the top.

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I made a "healthy" version by cutting back on the sugar and butter, and doubling the apples.

Apple Dumplings, heathly version 1
2 Granny Smith apples
1 can crescent rolls
1 stick butter
1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoons vanilla
cinnamon
1/2 can Hansen's grapefruit soda (because that's what I had on hand)

Same assembly and baking instructions above.

I made these one night and Mr. Fix-it and I demolished 2/3s of the pan. Yum!

Apple Dumplings, heathly version 2
4 Granny Smith apples
2 cans crescent rolls
1 3/4 sticks butter
3/4 cup sugar (heaping)
1 teaspoons vanilla
cinnamon
1 can Hansen's grapefruit soda (because that's what I had on hand)

Use a large roasting pan and follow the same assembly and baking instructions above.

I took these to work and boy, were they popular. I was asked for the recipe several times and this weekend, a couple people made the full calorie version. I disclaim any weight gain or any sudden urges to run laps.