Apple dumplings are a warm and cozy treat that wraps sweet, spiced apples in a soft dough. They are baked until golden and often served with a drizzle of syrup!
These dumplings remind me of chilly nights and family gatherings. I love them fresh from the oven, maybe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Yum! 🍏🍨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith are perfect. They hold their shape and balance the sweetness. You can also use Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a sweeter take, or even mix a few different kinds!
Crescent Roll Dough: For ease, I love using refrigerated crescent roll dough. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make homemade pastry dough. Or, use puff pastry for an even flakier texture. Just remember to thaw it properly!
Sugar: Granulated sugar is standard, but brown sugar adds extra richness. You could use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute if you’re cutting back on sweets while still getting that delicious flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal so you can control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or a plant-based butter works well, adding a unique flavor twist!
How Can I Make the Most of the Syrup?
The syrup is a key element and really enhances the dish. It’s super easy to make. Combine water, sugar, and butter in a saucepan and bring it to a boil. The trick is to stir constantly until the sugar dissolves.
- Start with a medium pot to avoid splatters.
- Stir occasionally to prevent burning. Once it boils, remove from heat and add vanilla quickly.
- Pour the syrup right over the dumplings before baking for a sweet, gooey finish!
Trust me, letting the syrup soak in while the dumplings bake creates a caramel-like sauce that makes each bite a delight. Enjoy your cooking!
Delicious Apple Dumplings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dumplings:
- 6 medium tart apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and quartered
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 2 cans (each 8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough or pastry dough
For the Syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 40-45 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’re looking at just about an hour to whip up these scrumptious apple dumplings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare to Bake:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a light greasing with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Your Spices:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. This mix will add lovely warmth and sweetness to your dumplings!
3. Prepare the Dough:
Unroll the crescent roll dough. Depending on if you’re using triangles or squares, separate the pieces so that you have enough to wrap around each apple quarter comfortably.
4. Coat Those Apples:
Dip each apple quarter into the sugar and spice mixture, making sure each piece is fully coated. This will infuse the apples with fantastic flavor!
5. Assemble the Dumplings:
Place a coated apple quarter on a piece of dough (or triangle). Add a small piece of butter on top of the apple. Now wrap the dough around the apple, pinching the seams to seal it tightly. Place the dumpling in the prepared baking dish, seam side down.
6. Make the Syrup:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the water, sugar, and butter. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil and the sugar has dissolved. Once it’s boiling, remove it from the heat and add the vanilla extract.
7. Bake Away!
Pour the warm syrup evenly over the dumplings in the baking dish. Now you’re ready to bake! Place the baking dish in the oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the dumplings are golden brown, and the syrup is bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
After baking, let the dumplings cool for a few minutes. To serve, spoon some of the syrup from the baking dish over each dumpling. For an extra treat, consider serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Enjoy these delicious, warm, gooey apple dumplings!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal for their firmness and balance of flavor, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter taste. Just make sure they hold their shape while baking!
Can I Make These Apple Dumplings Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the dumplings and place them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. When ready to bake, pour the syrup over them and follow the baking instructions as usual. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re chilled.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover apple dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or you can microwave them for a quick fix!
What Can I Serve with Apple Dumplings?
These dumplings are delicious on their own, but they pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You could also serve them with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture!
