Apple Dumplings Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked apple dumplings wafting through the kitchen. These sweet, flaky treats filled with tender apples and warm spices are the ultimate comfort food. Whether served as a cozy dessert or a mid-afternoon indulgence, apple dumplings are sure to win over anyone with a love for classic, homey flavors.

But where do these delightful pastries come from? Let’s dive into their story before we get to the recipe.

A Brief History of Apple Dumplings Recipe:

Apple dumplings have roots in Europe, particularly in Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. They were traditionally prepared as a way to use up apples during harvest season. The dish eventually became a staple in early American households, where it symbolized warmth, togetherness, and the joy of sharing good food. Today, apple dumplings are celebrated as a timeless dessert that blends nostalgia with delicious simplicity.

Apple Dumplings Recipe

Pinklady

Apple dumplings have roots in Europe, particularly in Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine. They were traditionally prepared as a way to use up apples during harvest season. The dish eventually became a staple in early American households, where it symbolized warmth, togetherness, and the joy of sharing good food.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine Europe

Servings 4

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Peeler and corer
• Rolling pin (if using homemade dough)
• Baking dish (9x13-inch recommended)
• Saucepan
• Pastry brush
• Aluminum foil

Ingredients

  

For the dumplings:

• 6 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• 1 package of pre-made pie crusts (or homemade, if preferred)
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 teaspoons granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

See also  Nestle Toll House Cookie Recipe

For the sauce:

• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

 

• Prep the Apples

  Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your baking dish.
• Peel, core, and remove the seeds from each apple. Try to keep the apples whole.
• Prepare the Pie Crust

  Roll out the pie crusts (if needed) and cut them into six squares, each large enough to fully wrap an apple.
• Place one apple in the center of each square.
• Assemble the Dumplings

  Fill the hollow center of each apple with 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 teaspoon of sugar mixed with cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Fold the corners of the dough up around the apple, pinching them together to seal. Trim any excess dough if necessary.
• Place the wrapped apples seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
• Make the Sauce

  In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, water, butter, and vanilla extract.
• Heat over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth and syrupy.
• Bake

  Pour the sauce over the dumplings, ensuring they are evenly coated.
• Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the dumplings are golden brown and the apples are tender.
• Serve

  Let the dumplings cool slightly before serving.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of heavy cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Video

Keyword Apple Dumplings Recipe

Similar Recipes to Try:

Peach Dumplings: Swap apples for ripe peaches for a summery twist.
Apple Galette: A rustic, open-faced pastry similar to a pie.
Apple Crisp: A simpler, crumbly dessert with baked apples.
Cinnamon Roll Apple Bake: Apples combined with cinnamon rolls for a gooey treat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Dumplings Recipe:

1. Can I use puff pastry instead of pie crust?

Yes, puff pastry works well and gives a flakier texture.

2. What are the best apples for dumplings?

Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are ideal because they hold their shape and offer a sweet-tart balance.

3. Can I make apple dumplings ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

4. What can I use if I don’t have a corer?

A small knife or melon baller works to remove the apple core.

5. Can I freeze apple dumplings?

Absolutely! Freeze before baking. When ready, bake from frozen and add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

6. Is there a gluten-free option?

Use a gluten-free pie crust or dough alternative.

7. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

8. Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can adjust the sugar to your taste or use a sugar substitute.

9. Can I add nuts or raisins?

Absolutely! Mix them with the cinnamon-sugar filling for extra texture and flavor.

10. What should I do if my sauce is too thick?

Add a splash of water or apple juice to thin it out.

Conclusion:

Apple dumplings are a beautiful way to celebrate the season’s bounty, combining the sweetness of apples, the warmth of spices, and the buttery flakiness of pie crust. With this recipe, you’ll be able to create a dessert that is as delicious as it is comforting. So go ahead—gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and bring a little slice of tradition into your home!

YouTube Video Credits:
Preppy Kitchen