Apple Dumplings are a timeless and comforting dessert that brings warm and cozy vibes to any table. Made with fresh apples enveloped in a buttery pastry and topped with a luscious cinnamon sauce, these delightful treats are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to treat yourself to something sweet, this Apple Dumplings recipe will do the trick. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide to making this delicious dessert.
Apple Dumplings Recipe Ingredients
Prepare to enjoy the heavenly flavor of Apple Dumplings with the following ingredients:
INGREDIENTS QUANTITY
Granny Smith apples 4 medium-sized
Refrigerated pie crusts (store-bought) 2
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Water 1 cup
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s proceed to make these scrumptious Apple Dumplings!
Instructions:
Prepare the Apples: Start by peeling, coring, and halving the Granny Smith apples. You should have 8 apple halves in total. Ensure to remove any seeds or tough parts from the apple cores.
Prepare the Pastry: Unroll the refrigerated pie crusts on a floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll out each crust slightly to make them thin and malleable.
Create the Dumplings: Cut each rolled-out pie crust into 4 equal squares. Place one apple half in the center of each square.
Add Sweetness: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture generously over each apple half. Add a small pat of unsalted butter on top of the cinnamon sugar on each apple.
Wrap the Apples: Gently fold the pie crust corners up and over the apple, pinching the edges to seal the dumpling. The apples should be fully enclosed by the pastry.
Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the water, remaining butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
Bake the Dumplings: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the prepared apple dumplings in a baking dish and pour the cinnamon sauce over them.
Bake to Perfection: Bake the apple dumplings in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the pastry turns golden brown and the apples are tender.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the apple dumplings from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. For an extra treat, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness and firm texture, you can use other apple varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Golden Delicious for slightly different flavor profiles.
Can I make the pie crust from scratch?
Definitely! If you prefer homemade pie crusts, you can make the dough from scratch using a reliable pie crust recipe.
Can I add nuts to the filling?
Yes, if you enjoy the combination of apples and nuts, you can sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the apples before wrapping them in the pastry.
Can I freeze Apple Dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze unbaked apple dumplings for later use. Assemble the dumplings, but do not add the sauce. Instead, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, simply prepare the sauce, pour it over the frozen dumplings, and bake as directed.
Can I use pre-made apple pie filling?
Certainly! If you’re short on time, you can use pre-made apple pie filling instead of fresh apples. Simply follow the same wrapping and baking steps.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re serving a crowd or want to have leftovers, feel free to double the recipe. Simply adjust the ingredients accordingly and use a larger baking dish to accommodate the extra dumplings.
Apple Dumplings are a delightful dessert that captures the essence of the fall season and provides a comforting treat year-round. With their tender apples, flaky pastry, and sweet cinnamon sauce, these dumplings are sure to become a family favorite.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps outlined in this article, and treat yourself and your loved ones to the heartwarming taste of Apple Dumplings!