Crispy Apple Spring Rolls

After my crispy banana spring rolls went viral, I couldn’t resist experimenting with another fruit and apples turned out to be the perfect choice. These apple spring rolls are crisp on the outside, gooey and caramelized inside, with a creamy swirl of soft cream cheese and peanut butter for extra indulgence.

Think of them as a cross between apple pie spring rolls and fruit spring rolls, a delicious, portable version of apple pie that’s easy enough for a weekday snack or breakfast spring rolls moment.

As a nutrition coach, I love using rice paper wrappers instead of deep-fried pastry for a lighter, gluten free spring rolloption. The result is crispy without being greasy, and you can even make them in the air fryer for extra crunch with minimal oil.

They’re the kind of treat that feels indulgent but still fits into a balanced, mindful eating approach—fiber from apples, a bit of protein from cream cheese, and healthy fats from peanut butter.

Ingredients

• 4 rice paper sheets – use gluten-free spring roll wrappers if preferred
• 2 heaped tablespoons cream cheese, softened – swap for dairy-free cream cheese if needed. Try my home made Philadelphia style cream cheese (made with 2 ingredients)
• ½ apple, thinly sliced – any variety works; Fuji or Honeycrisp give great sweetness
• 1 tablespoon peanut butter – almond or cashew butter also work
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or erythritol – adjust sweetness to taste
• 1 medium egg – for the egg wash
• 1 tablespoon milk – or plant milk of choice

Method

1. Make the Egg Wash
   In a shallow bowl, whisk together the egg and milk until smooth.
   Coach tip: The egg wash adds extra crispness when air frying. For vegan versions, use a mix of plant milk and a teaspoon of cornstarch.
2. Soften the Rice Paper
   Dip one sheet at a time into the egg mixture for a few seconds until it softens. Lay it flat on a clean surface. Repeat and stack a second sheet on top (two per roll).
   Coach tip: Doubling the sheets helps prevent tearing and gives you that golden crunch.
3. Assemble the Filling
   Spread about 1 tablespoon of cream cheese in the center. Layer a few thin apple slices, drizzle peanut butter, and sprinkle a little sugar or erythritol.
   Coach tip: Thin apple slices ensure even cooking and caramelization.
4. Roll It Up
   Fold the sides inward and roll tightly, like a traditional spring roll. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Cook Until Crispy
   • Air Fry Spring Rolls: Spray the basket lightly with oil and cook at 170°C / 340°F for 12–16 minutes, flipping halfway.
   • Oven: Bake at 180°C / 355°F for 18–20 minutes.
   • Pan Fry: Shallow fry in 1 tsp oil until golden.
   • Deep Fry (optional): Use spring roll wrappers and fry in oil (175°C / 350°F) for 2–3 minutes per side.
     Coach tip: The air fryer version is my go-to for an easy, low-oil treat.
6. Serve & Enjoy
   Cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with caramel sauce, dust with cinnamon sugar, or add a scoop of yogurt or ice cream.

 Tips and Variations

• Breakfast twist: Fill with apple + almond butter + oats for a warm breakfast spring roll.
• Add crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or granola inside before rolling.
• No cream cheese? Use Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt for a lighter version.
• Other fruits: Try pears, peaches, or berries for a fruit spring roll variation.

FAQs

Are spring rolls healthy?
Yes, when air-fried or oven-baked with wholesome fillings, they can be a nutritious and satisfying option. These are lower in oil and added sugars compared to fried desserts.

Are these spring rolls vegetarian?
Yes, they are naturally vegetarian. For vegan versions, replace the egg wash with plant milk and a teaspoon of cornstarch.

Can I make these gluten free?
Yes! Rice paper wrappers are naturally gluten free. Just ensure all your ingredients (like peanut butter and cream cheese) are certified gluten free.

Can I make these ahead?
Yes—prepare and refrigerate before cooking for up to 24 hours, then cook when ready to serve.

How do I reheat them?
Air fry or bake at 160°C (320°F) for 5 minutes to restore crispiness.

Storage, Serving & Reheating

• Storage: Best eaten fresh, but can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Air fry or bake until warm and crisp.
• Serve with: Greek yogurt, caramel drizzle, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

Some Useful products I have found for this recipe:

This Dual Air Fryer by Swan is my go to for any recipe that requires that extra level of crispeness.