Description
Panda Express Apple Pie Egg Rolls are a deliciously crispy and golden treat filled with a warmly spiced apple filling. Inspired by the classic apple pie, these egg rolls combine tart Granny Smith apples with cinnamon and sugar, wrapped in crispy egg roll wrappers and fried to perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or dessert, they offer a delightful balance of sweet and crunchy in every bite.
Ingredients
Filling
- 3 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced into 3/8-inch pieces
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
Egg Rolls
- 8 egg roll wrappers
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 inches deep)
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced Granny Smith apples, lemon juice, cinnamon, sugar, and cornstarch. Mix well to ensure the apples are evenly coated with the spices and cornstarch, which will help thicken the filling.
- Cook the Filling: Transfer the apple mixture to a saucepan and cook over medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and cook until the apples are slightly softened and the mixture thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool for approximately 15 minutes.
- Assemble the Egg Rolls: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean flat surface with one corner pointing toward you. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the cooled apple filling onto the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, fold the two sides inward, then roll tightly from the bottom to the top corner. Seal the edge with a little water to secure the egg roll.
- Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Egg Rolls: Carefully place 2 to 3 egg rolls into the hot oil. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally, until they become golden brown and crispy. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: In a shallow dish, mix together the 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon. While the egg rolls are still warm, roll each one in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat evenly.
- Serve: Serve the apple pie egg rolls warm to enjoy the perfect balance of crunchy exterior and sweet, soft filling.
Notes
- You can substitute the Granny Smith apples with other tart apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a different sweetness profile.
- Make sure the filling has cooled before assembling to prevent the wrappers from becoming soggy.
- Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for even frying and to avoid greasy egg rolls.
- These egg rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free egg roll wrappers and ensure all ingredients comply.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American-Chinese Fusion