Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe

“`html

There is something truly comforting and nostalgic about making an Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe that brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and warm kitchens. This delightful dish captures the perfect harmony of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples wrapped in buttery, flaky dough and baked to golden perfection. Whether you are searching for a simple dessert to impress or a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug, this recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital role. From the spices that awaken the apples to the buttery dough that cradles them, every element is essential for building layers of flavor and texture that will make your taste buds sing.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base of the dough, giving structure and a tender crumb.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the dough’s flavor by balancing sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Adds lightness and helps the dough rise slightly during baking.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the dough with warm, inviting spice.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Creates that flaky, melt-in-your-mouth texture in the crust.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to the dough.
• 1/4 cup cold water (more if needed): Binds the dough just right for rolling and wrapping.
• 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): The star ingredient—sharp Granny Smith offers tang, while Honeycrisp provides natural sweetness.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Combines with spices to sweeten and caramelize the apple filling.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Blends beautifully with brown sugar for that classic apple pie flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds subtle warmth and depth to the filling.
• 1 tablespoon butter (for dotting on top): Melts during baking for a rich, golden finish.
• 1 cup water: Pours into the baking dish to keep dumplings moist and help form syrup.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish. This ensures your apple dumplings will bake evenly and won’t stick, giving you a perfect golden crust to your dumplings every time.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Peel and core the apples, then cut them into halves or quarters depending on their size. These pieces will be wrapped in dough and baked to tender, juicy perfection, so make sure each piece is manageable to encase.

Step 3: Make the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon. This dry mix sets the foundation for your pastry’s flavor and texture, balancing spice with structure.

Step 4: Incorporate Cold Butter

Add your cold cubed butter to the dry ingredients, then use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend them until pea-sized crumbs form. This step is crucial to getting that flaky, buttery dough that melts in your mouth with every bite.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Gradually pour cold water into the mixture, one tablespoon at a time, stirring just until the dough comes together. If it feels dry, add a little more water—you want a soft yet workable dough, not sticky or overly wet.

Step 6: Roll Out and Cut Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll your dough out about 1/8-inch thick, shaping it into a square or circle. Then, cut it into four squares large enough to wrap each apple piece snugly. This is where your dumplings begin to take shape!

Step 7: Assemble the Apple Dumplings

Place each apple half or quarter in the middle of the dough squares. Sprinkle the insides with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg for that sensationally spiced apple surprise inside each dumpling.

Step 8: Wrap and Seal Apples

Fold the dough over the apples, pinching the edges firmly to seal them. This keeps all the delicious juices inside while baking and creates that classic dumpling look that’s so inviting.

Step 9: Prepare for Baking

Arrange the dumplings in your greased baking dish. Dot their tops with small butter pieces and sprinkle remaining brown sugar and cinnamon over them to encourage a caramelized, golden crust as they bake.

Step 10: Add Baking Sauce and Bake

Pour 1 cup of water into the baking dish around the dumplings (not on top) to keep them moist and help form a luscious sauce during baking. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until golden brown and the apples are tender.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

Allow your Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings to cool for a few minutes before serving. These are fantastic warm, especially with vanilla ice cream or fluffy whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate the presentation and flavor of your apple dumplings. Adding a cinnamon stick or fresh mint leaves beside the plate adds a charming finishing touch that’s perfect for sharing around the table.

Side Dishes

While these dumplings shine on their own, pairing them with homemade vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a small bowl of fresh berries balances the warm spices beautifully and rounds out your dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your dumplings in individual ramekins or rustic mini cast-iron skillets to impress guests and create a cozy vibe. Another idea is to drizzle honey or maple syrup over each serving right before bringing them to the table for an extra hint of sweetness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though it’s hard not to finish them all!), store the dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making them just as delicious reheated.

Freezing

This Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap each assembled dumpling tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months, then bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or frozen, baked dumplings in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, approximately 15-20 minutes, to keep their flaky crust crisp and the apples tender and juicy. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great picks because of their balance of tartness and sweetness, you can experiment with Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn apples depending on your taste. Just choose firmer varieties that hold up well when baked.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that measures cup for cup. Be mindful that the texture might vary slightly, but you’ll still enjoy a deliciously warm apple treat.

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Definitely! The dough can be made a day ahead and kept wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge. This makes the recipe even more convenient for busy days or when planning dessert ahead of a gathering.

What’s the best way to peel and core apples efficiently?

Using an apple corer makes removing the core quick and clean, while a vegetable peeler can easily take off the skin. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife works well—just take care to remove the tough core without losing too much apple flesh.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?

Yes! Adding chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins inside the apple filling brings delightful texture and flavor contrasts. It’s a lovely way to customize the Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe for your personal preference.

Final Thoughts

This Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe is a timeless treasure that invites warmth and joy into any kitchen. From the buttery crust to the spiced apple filling, each bite tells a story of tradition and comforting flavors. I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own—it’s the kind of dessert that turns simple ingredients into extraordinary memories.

“`

Print