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Apple Dumplings

These homemade Apple Dumplings feature tender apples wrapped in a buttery crust and drizzled with a spiced syrup, evoking warmth and nostalgia.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dessert, Sweet Treat
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Syrup
  • 2 cups apple cider Opt for fresh cider for more robust flavor.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar A mix of granulated and brown sugar enhances sweetness and caramelization.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Dumplings
  • 1 recipe homemade pie crust or 1 box (14.1 ounces) store-bought pie crust Homemade gives a tender texture; use store-bought for convenience.
  • 6 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and cored Choose tart apples for a nice balance against the sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Vanilla ice cream, for serving Classic vanilla complements the flavors beautifully.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the apple cider, granulated sugar, and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in vanilla extract and set aside.
  2. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
  3. Roll out your pie crust into a large rectangle on a well-floured surface. Cut into six 8×8 inch squares.
  4. Place an apple in the center of each square. Fill the core of each apple with 1 tablespoon of softened butter, and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture (made from the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg) generously over the apples.
  5. Moisten the edges of the dough squares with water, fold the dough around the apples, and pinch to seal tightly.
  6. Place the wrapped dumplings in the greased baking dish and pour the reserved syrup over them.
Baking
  1. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until golden brown and the dumplings crisp and fragrant.
Serving
  1. Allow to cool slightly before serving warm with vanilla ice cream and extra sauce drizzled on top.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pie crust. You can prepare the dumplings in advance and freeze them before baking.