Save This apple pie crumble wrap recipe transforms the classic American dessert into a convenient handheld treat that satisfies all your apple pie cravings without the fuss of making traditional pie crust. I discovered this recipe during apple picking season when I needed a creative way to use our abundant harvest.
The first time I made these wraps was for my daughter's outdoor birthday party. The guests were delighted by these portable apple pies, and they've become our go-to dessert for casual entertaining ever since.
Ingredients
- Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples: these tart varieties hold their shape when cooked and provide the perfect balance to the sweet filling
- Unsalted butter: creates richness in both the filling and crumble topping
- Brown sugar: adds depth with its molasses notes that complement the apples beautifully
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: these warming spices provide that signature apple pie flavor profile
- Lemon juice: brightens the filling and prevents apple discoloration
- Flour tortillas: choose medium sized 8 inch tortillas for the perfect portion size
- Rolled oats: adds wonderful texture to the crumble topping look for old fashioned rather than quick oats
Instructions
- Prepare the apple filling:
- Cook diced apples with butter, sugars, and spices over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes until the apples soften but still maintain some texture. The mixture should become slightly thickened as the natural pectin in the apples combines with the sugar. Allow this mixture to cool slightly before assembling the wraps to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.
- Create the crumble topping:
- Combine the dry ingredients first, then incorporate the cold butter by rubbing it between your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with varying sizes for textural interest. Spread this mixture on a baking sheet and bake for 7 to 8 minutes until just golden. Watch carefully as the high sugar content can cause it to burn quickly.
- Assemble the wraps:
- Lay each tortilla flat and spoon the cooled apple filling along the center, creating a line about 1 inch wide. Sprinkle a generous amount of the baked crumble over the apples, saving some for the final garnish. Fold the sides inward first, then roll from bottom to top, ensuring the seam is on the bottom when placed on the baking sheet.
- Finish and bake:
- Brush each wrap thoroughly with melted butter, making sure to coat the entire top surface. This creates a beautiful golden color and adds flavor. Mix cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl and sprinkle generously over the buttered wraps. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the tortillas become crisp and golden brown around the edges.
Save The cinnamon sugar coating on these wraps is absolutely transformative. I discovered that brushing the tortillas with butter first helps the cinnamon sugar mixture adhere perfectly, creating a delightfully crispy, sweet exterior that mimics the experience of biting into pie crust.
Storage Tips
These apple pie crumble wraps can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes to restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving as this will make the tortillas soggy rather than crisp.
Creative Variations
While the classic apple filling is delicious, this versatile recipe welcomes many creative adaptations. Try mixing in dried cranberries or raisins with the apple filling for added sweetness and texture. For a more decadent version, add a tablespoon of caramel sauce to each wrap before rolling. You can also experiment with different spice profiles by incorporating cardamom, ginger, or even a pinch of cloves.
Serving Suggestions
These wraps are delicious on their own, but they truly shine when paired with complementary toppings. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate contrast of warm and cold. A drizzle of caramel sauce adds luxury, while a dollop of whipped cream lightens the dessert. For a breakfast twist, serve alongside Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey.
Make Ahead Instructions
You can prepare components of this dessert in advance for easy assembly later. The apple filling can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The crumble topping can be prepared and baked up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container. You can even assemble the entire wraps and refrigerate them unbaked for up to 24 hours before brushing with butter, sprinkling with cinnamon sugar, and baking.
Kid-Friendly Cooking Project
This recipe makes an excellent cooking project for children. Kids can help measure ingredients, mix the crumble topping, and even assemble their own wraps. Create a wrap assembly station where children can customize their own desserts by adding extra cinnamon, chocolate chips, or other favorite toppings. This hands-on experience not only creates delicious treats but also builds confidence in the kitchen.
Save The cinnamon sugar coating on these wraps is absolutely transformative. I discovered that brushing the tortillas with butter first helps the cinnamon sugar mixture adhere perfectly, creating a delightfully crispy, sweet exterior that mimics the experience of biting into pie crust.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I keep the wraps from getting soggy?
Allow the apple filling to cool slightly before assembling so excess moisture evaporates. Bake wraps seam-side down for a crisp finish.
- → Can I make these wraps ahead of time?
Wraps can be assembled and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking; bake just before serving for best texture.
- → What apples work best for the filling?
Use tart, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance of flavor and texture once cooked.
- → How can I add extra crunch to the crumble?
Mix in chopped toasted nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the crumble for added texture and nutty flavor.
- → Is it possible to make this dessert dairy-free?
Substitute plant-based butter for the regular butter to create a dairy-free version of the crumble and filling.
- → How should these wraps be served?
Serve warm for the best experience, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream.