Sarah BrownWhen you think of apple dumplings, it’s easy to start daydreaming about all of the possible pairings. Whether you prefer a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the warm pastry or a dollop of freshly whipped cream, these additions enhance the deliciousness of the dumplings. But don’t stop there! Consider serving with a simple vanilla custard or even a salted caramel sauce drizzling down the sides for added decadence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Apple dumplings have a special place in my heart, and I suspect they’ll find a cozy corner in yours too. Perhaps it’s the nostalgic appeal of baked apples encased in a tender crust or the sheer joy of the caramelized syrup that pools at the bottom of the baking dish.
Either way, this recipe combines classic flavors with ease of preparation, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers. Talk about a win-win!
Ingredients Overview
Now, let me walk you through the ingredients that make up this delightful recipe. You’ll find each one adds its own unique touch, enhancing the overall flavor and texture.
½ Cup Unsalted Butter: Rich and creamy, butter is the heart of this dish, giving the pastry its characteristic flakiness.
2 Tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavor of the apples, adding a touch of tartness that perfectly complements their natural sweetness.
1 (14.1 Ounce) Package of Double-Crust Pie Pastry, Defrosted: The backbone of the dumplings, this saves you time and delivers consistency.
3 Cups Water: The base of our syrup, ensuring each bite is soaked in sweet, flavorful goodness.
1 Cup Granulated Sugar: Provides the essential sweetness and balances the tartness of the apples.
1 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and a fragrant spice that ties the dish together.
6 Large Granny Smith Apples, Peeled and Cored: Granny Smith apples hold up well under heat, keeping a slight crunch and a tangy flavor.
¾ Cup Dark Brown Sugar: Deepens the sweetness and gives the syrup a molasses-like complexity.
½ Teaspoon Ground Nutmeg: A small amount goes a long way, adding an earthy, aromatic note.
1 Teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors and adds an undercurrent of sweetness.
How to Make Old Fashioned Apple Dumplings
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
First things first, let’s get the apples ready. Peel the apples and remove the cores using an apple corer or a small, sharp knife. Try to keep the apples as whole as possible since they’ll be the stars of our show.
Step 2: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s getting hot, take out your pie pastry from the package and let it sit for a couple of minutes to soften, making it easier to handle.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pie pastry. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Each piece should be large enough to fully wrap an apple.
Step 4: Butter It Up
Melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add in the granulated sugar, lemon juice, and water, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, then pour about a tablespoon of this mixture into the hole of each apple.
Step 5: Assemble the Dumplings
Place each apple onto a piece of the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle a mix of dark brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in the apple’s core cavity. Fold the dough up and over the apples, sealing the edges with a little bit of water to make sure it sticks.
Step 6: Bake the Dumplings
Arrange the wrapped apples in a greased baking dish, ensuring they have some room to breathe. Pour the remaining butter-sugar mixture over the apples. Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the pastry is golden brown.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, remove the dumplings from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with your preferred side—vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, custard, or caramel sauce. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite!
Recipe Notes
Butter: Opt for unsalted butter to better control the saltiness in your recipe. It gets absorbed by the dough, making it flakier.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best. It prevents the apples from browning and adds natural tartness.
Granny Smith Apples: I chose Granny Smith apples for their firmness and tart flavor. They maintain their structure during baking, preventing a mushy texture.
Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These spices imbue the dumplings with warm autumnal flavors. Feel free to adjust the quantities to your taste.
Recipe Variations
Add Nuts: For some added crunch, toss chopped walnuts or pecans into the apple cavity along with the sugar and spices.
Dried Fruit: Cranberries or raisins can add a burst of flavor. Simply sprinkle them over the apples before wrapping them in dough.
Citrus Notes: Swap half the lemon juice with orange juice for a citrusy twist that’s equally delightful.
Boozy Twist: Add a splash of bourbon to the butter-sugar mixture for a nuanced, adult-friendly flavor.
Nutrition Information
Old fashioned apple dumpling recipe
Equipment
- Apple corer or a small, sharp knife
- Saucepan
- Greased baking dish
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 14.1 ounce package of double-crust pie pastry, defrosted
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 large Granny Smith apples peeled and cored
- ¾ cup dark brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
- First things first, let’s get the apples ready. Peel the apples and remove the cores using an apple corer or a small, sharp knife. Try to keep the apples as whole as possible since they’ll be the stars of our show.
Step 2: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s getting hot, take out your pie pastry from the package and let it sit for a couple of minutes to soften, making it easier to handle.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pie pastry. Divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Each piece should be large enough to fully wrap an apple.
Step 4: Butter It Up
- Melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add in the granulated sugar, lemon juice, and water, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, then pour about a tablespoon of this mixture into the hole of each apple.
Step 5: Assemble the Dumplings
- Place each apple onto a piece of the rolled-out dough. Sprinkle a mix of dark brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in the apple’s core cavity. Fold the dough up and over the apples, sealing the edges with a little bit of water to make sure it sticks.
Step 6: Bake the Dumplings
- Arrange the wrapped apples in a greased baking dish, ensuring they have some room to breathe. Pour the remaining butter-sugar mixture over the apples. Place the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the pastry is golden brown.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Once done, remove the dumplings from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with your preferred side—vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, custard, or caramel sauce. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite!
Notes
Nutrition
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, you can! Fuji or Honeycrisp apples work well as substitutes. They offer a sweeter taste but still hold up during baking.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free pie crust. There are several available in stores, or you can make your own.
3. Can I prepare these in advance?
Absolutely. You can assemble the dumplings and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic to avoid drying out.
4. What happens if I leave out the cinnamon or nutmeg?
While the dumplings will still be tasty, you’ll miss out on the warm, spicy notes these ingredients provide. Consider using a substitute like allspice or cloves.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a warm oven or microwave before serving.
6. Can I freeze these dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Place the wrapped apples on a baking sheet and freeze till solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding about 10 minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
Making old-fashioned apple dumplings is like bringing a piece of comforting tradition into your home. There’s something magical about the combination of zesty apples, warm spices, and buttery pastry. Not to mention, the ease of preparation makes this recipe a go-to for any occasion. So go ahead, delight your senses and share this irresistible treat with loved ones. Happy baking!
