Apple Dumplings

Apple Dumplings

by

Apple dumplings are a delightful dessert that captures the comforting essence of baked apples, warm spices, and flaky pastry. Whether you’re baking them for a cozy fall evening, a holiday gathering, or simply craving something indulgent, apple dumplings are a go-to recipe that never disappoints. This recipe combines tender apples, buttery pastry, cinnamon-sugar filling, and a luscious syrup that caramelizes during baking.

Apple Dumplings

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  1. Comforting and nostalgic – Apple dumplings bring back memories of family dinners and holidays. They taste just like Grandma’s kitchen.

  2. Simple ingredients – Most of the ingredients are pantry staples and fresh apples.

  3. Perfect for all occasions – Whether it’s a weekday treat or a festive dessert, this recipe fits all settings.

  4. Versatile – You can customize the filling, syrup, or even make them ahead of time.

Ingredients List

For the Dumplings:

  • 2 large Granny Smith apples (or other tart, firm apples)

  • 1 sheet of puff pastry or homemade pie dough

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

  • ¼ cup light brown sugar

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

For the Syrup:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 1 cup water

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

  • Vanilla ice cream

  • Caramel sauce

  • Whipped cream

Timing & Servings

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes

  • Cook Time: 35 minutes

  • Total Time: 1 hour

  • Servings: 4 dumplings

Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

  • Peel and core the apples.

  • Cut each apple in half from top to bottom.

  • Remove any remaining seeds or core fragments.

  • Set aside while preparing the pastry and filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  • In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

  • Cut the butter into small pieces (about ½ teaspoon each).

  • This mixture will be spooned into the apple cavity.

Step 3: Roll the Dough

  • Roll out the puff pastry or homemade dough into a large rectangle.

  • Cut into four equal squares.

  • Place each apple half cut-side-down on a square of dough.

Step 4: Fill and Wrap

  • Spoon some of the cinnamon-sugar mixture into the apple center.

  • Add a piece of butter on top.

  • Fold the dough up and over the apple, pinching the corners to seal.

Step 5: Arrange in Baking Dish

  • Place the wrapped dumplings in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, seam side down.

  • Leave some space between each dumpling to allow even baking.

Step 6: Make the Syrup

  • In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and butter.

  • Bring to a boil, then remove from heat.

  • Stir in vanilla extract.

  • Pour the hot syrup over the dumplings in the baking dish.

Step 7: Bake

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

  • Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the dumplings are golden brown and the syrup is bubbling.

  • Let cool slightly before serving.

Apple Dumplings

Best Apples for Dumplings

Tart and firm apples hold up best to baking. Here are a few options:

  • Granny Smith (most recommended)

  • Honeycrisp

  • Braeburn

  • Jonathan or Jonagold

Avoid soft apples like Red Delicious, which tend to become mushy.

Serving Suggestions

  • Classic: Serve warm dumplings with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

  • Caramel twist: Drizzle caramel sauce on top for added richness.

  • Holiday feel: Sprinkle with crushed nuts and cinnamon.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make-Ahead

You can assemble the dumplings a few hours ahead and refrigerate them covered. Just pour the syrup over right before baking.

Storage

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

  • Freezer: Wrap baked dumplings in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.

Reheating Instructions

  • Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.

  • Microwave: Heat each dumpling individually for 1–2 minutes.

  • Stovetop syrup refresh: Add a splash of water to the syrup when reheating to thin it slightly.

Variations to Try

  • Pecan-stuffed apples – Add chopped pecans with the brown sugar.

  • Cream cheese twist – Add a dollop of sweetened cream cheese inside the apple cavity.

  • Spiced rum syrup – Replace a portion of water with spiced rum for a holiday version.

  • Crescent roll dumplings – Use refrigerated crescent rolls for a shortcut.

Tips for Perfect Dumplings

  • Don’t overstuff the apples, or the filling may leak out during baking.

  • Make sure the dough seals tightly around the apple to trap the steam and juices.

  • Use chilled dough to make wrapping easier and prevent tearing.

  • Pour hot syrup over dumplings, not cold—it helps caramelize the crust during baking.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pie dough?

Yes! Store-bought pie dough or puff pastry both work great for apple dumplings.

What if I don’t have whole apples?

You can use sliced apples and wrap small bundles in the dough instead, similar to turnovers.

Can I reduce the sugar in the syrup?

Yes. You can cut the syrup sugar to ¾ cup or even ½ cup for a lighter version, though the syrup will be thinner.

How do I prevent soggy bottoms?

Use a glass or ceramic baking dish and bake uncovered so the bottoms caramelize properly.

Are apple dumplings gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free pastry dough. The filling and syrup can easily be made gluten-free.

Can I use different fruits?

Yes! Pears, peaches, or even plums can work, but they have different baking times and may require adjustments.

Conclusion

Apple dumplings are a timeless, comforting dessert that combines simple ingredients with rich flavor and texture. Whether you serve them with ice cream, a drizzle of caramel, or enjoy them plain and warm, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With this detailed guide, you have everything you need to make the perfect apple dumplings from scratch—every time.