Apple Dumplings are a nostalgic and utterly comforting dessert, reminiscent of cozy kitchens and family gatherings. This dish features tender whole apples wrapped in a buttery homemade pastry, generously filled with a cinnamon-sugar blend, and baked to golden perfection in a rich, vanilla-infused syrup. The result is a delightful contrast of textures—soft, spiced apples, flaky crust, and a glossy, caramel-like sauce that begs to be spooned over the top. Served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, these dumplings deliver a mouthwatering experience that’s indulgent yet rustic. Their appeal lies in simplicity, tradition, and the sheer comfort they evoke.
Perfect for fall evenings or festive occasions, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into something spectacular. Each dumpling is a self-contained dessert, making it easy to serve guests or surprise loved ones with a homemade treat that looks as beautiful as it tastes.
🧺 INGREDIENTS:
For the Pastry:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup cold shortening (or butter)
- ½ cup cold water
For the Apples:
- 6 medium apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons butter (cut into 6 small pieces)
For the Syrup:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
📝 INSTRUCTIONS:
- Prepare the Pastry Dough In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually stir in cold water until the dough forms. Wrap and chill for 20 minutes.
- Core and Prep Apples Peel and core the apples, keeping them whole. Avoid slicing—they need to remain intact for wrapping.
- Roll and Wrap Divide chilled dough into six portions. Roll each into a square large enough to encase an apple. Place an apple in the center of each pastry square.
- Fill the Apples In a small bowl, mix sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stuff each apple core with this mixture, pressing slightly to pack. Top with a small dot of butter.
- Seal the Dumplings Bring the corners of the pastry up over the apple and pinch the edges to seal completely. Place each wrapped apple into a greased baking dish.
- Make the Syrup In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, water, butter, and vanilla. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Pour syrup gently around the dumplings in the dish.
- Bake to Perfection Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 50–60 minutes, until apples are tender and the pastry is golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish Let dumplings sit for 10 minutes before serving. Spoon warm syrup over the tops, then dust lightly with powdered sugar. Add vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an irresistible finish.
🧁 Serving Ideas & Notes:
- Serve each dumpling individually with extra syrup and ice cream for a plated dessert.
- Try adding chopped walnuts or raisins into the apple core mix for added texture.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with strong black tea or spiced cider.