Classic Apple Dumplings are a quintessential fall dessert, combining tender baked apples wrapped in flaky pastry and bathed in a cinnamon-spiced syrup. This comforting dessert evokes cozy autumn evenings and is perfect for serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Ingredients for Classic Apple Dumplings
- 4 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package (2 sheets) of store-bought puff pastry (or homemade if preferred)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
How to Make Classic Apple Dumplings
- Prepare the Apples:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and core the apples, leaving them whole.
- Make the Syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter is melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat.
- Wrap the Apples:
- Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut the pastry into squares large enough to wrap around each apple.
- Wrap and Bake:
- Place an apple in the center of each pastry square.
- Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg, then fold the pastry up around the apple, pinching the seams to seal.
- Bake the Dumplings:
- Arrange the wrapped apples in a baking dish or on a baking sheet.
- Pour the warm syrup over each apple dumpling.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a knife.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the apple dumplings from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
About the Main Ingredients
- Apples: Choose firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that hold their shape well when baked.
- Puff Pastry: Provides a light and flaky crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender apple filling.
- Sugar, Butter, and Spices: Create a rich syrup with warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, enhancing the sweetness of the apples.
Enjoy these Classic Apple Dumplings as a delightful autumn dessert that captures the essence of the season with every bite.
