Apple Dumplings
These delightful apple dumplings are wrapped in a buttery pastry, filled with spiced apples, and baked in a sweet cinnamon sauce, making for a comforting dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 2 cups apple cider Opt for fresh, high-quality apple cider to enhance the flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Refined sugar works best for sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Use high-fat butter for a rich flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Choose pure vanilla for the most authentic taste.
For the Dumplings
- 1 recipe homemade pie crust or 1 box (14.1 ounces) store-bought Homemade is preferred, but store-bought saves time.
- 6 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and cored Provides the perfect tartness.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened This is for filling.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed Caramelizes beautifully as it bakes.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Essential for that warm spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg Adds depth and warmth.
- Vanilla ice cream for serving Vanilla ice cream A scoop melts beautifully over the warm dumplings.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine apple cider, granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of butter. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract; set aside.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Roll out pie dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface and cut into six 8×8-inch squares.
Assembly
- Place a peeled and cored apple in the center of each square and spoon 1 tablespoon of softened butter into the core of each apple.
- In a small bowl, mix light brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle generously over the apples.
- Moisten the edges of each dough square with water, fold the dough around the apples, and seal edges tightly.
Baking
- Place wrapped dumplings in the prepared baking dish and pour the sauce over them, covering completely. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, until the dumplings are golden brown and the apples are tender.
Serving
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and additional sauce drizzled on top.
Notes
Apple dumplings are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back into the oven.