Ingredients Quantity
For the Dumplings:
- Apples (medium-sized, peeled, and cored): 6
- Puff pastry or pie dough: 2 sheets
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Butter: 6 teaspoons (1 teaspoon per apple)
For the Sauce:
- Brown sugar: 1 cup
- Water: 1 cup
- Butter: 1/2 cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
Optional Additions
- Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for added warmth.
- Raisins or nuts: Stuff the cored apples with chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins for extra texture and flavor.
- Caramel drizzle: Enhance the dessert with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use tart apples: Granny Smith apples work best for their firm texture and tartness, which balance the sweetness.
- Chill the dough: Ensure your pastry is well-chilled for easy handling and flakiness.
- Prevent soggy bottoms: Place the dumplings on a wire rack inside the baking dish to allow even baking and prevent sogginess.
- Baste with sauce: Spoon the sauce over the dumplings periodically during baking for an even glaze.
- Serve warm: These dumplings are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Apples:
- Peel and core the apples, keeping them whole.
2. Make the Dumplings:
- Roll out the pastry dough and cut it into squares large enough to wrap around each apple.
- In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
- Place an apple in the center of each square, fill the core with 1 teaspoon of butter, and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Wrap the dough around the apple, pinching the edges to seal.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
- In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, water, and butter. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the dumplings in a baking dish and pour the sauce over them. Bake for 35-40 minutes, basting occasionally, until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender.
5. Serve:
- Let the dumplings cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Description
Apple Dumplings are a visual and culinary delight. Each dumpling features a tender apple encased in golden, flaky pastry, all bathed in a sweet, buttery sauce. The warm spices infuse the dessert with an autumnal aroma, while the combination of textures—soft apple, crispy pastry, and velvety sauce—makes it utterly satisfying.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fiber: 4g
Conclusion
Apple Dumplings are the epitome of comfort food, blending simple ingredients into a decadent dessert that feels both nostalgic and luxurious. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday tables, they are a dessert that pleases all ages.
Recommendation
Pair these dumplings with a hot cup of coffee or spiced cider for the ultimate fall treat. If you’re in a hurry, consider using pre-made pastry dough for a quicker preparation.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter version, use reduced-sugar substitutes or replace some of the butter with unsweetened applesauce in the sauce. Additionally, whole-wheat pastry flour can be used for a healthier crust without sacrificing flavor.