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.
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
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 ApplesPreheat 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 CrustRoll 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 DumplingsFill 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 SauceIn 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.
- BakePour 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.
- ServeLet 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.