American Apple Dumplings
Apple dumplings, a classic dessert from the American South, have been a cherished homemade treat since the 1800s. This recipe features whole apples wrapped in sweet pastry, then baked until tender and golden in a spiced syrup. For perfectly soft baked apples, choose a thin-skinned, tart variety like Granny Smith. Apple dumplings are special not only for their warm cinnamon scent and tender fruit but also for their rustic, homemade appeal. They're often served at family gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, or as a weekend dessert – and almost always with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They evoke both grandma's kitchen and the world of classic American baking – each bite brings a little warmth to the plate.
Ingredients for this recipe
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Preparation Steps
1
Peel and core the apples, then drizzle with lemon juice to prevent browning. Tip: A tart apple variety (like Granny Smith) will balance the sweetness nicely.
2
Combine the brown sugar and cinnamon, then fill the center of each apple. Place a small pat of butter inside each apple as well. Tip: You can also enrich the filling with a little chopped nuts if you like the crunchy texture.
3
Roll out the pastry and cut it into 6 equal squares. Place each apple in the center of a square of pastry, wrap the pastry around the apple, and seal well at the top. Brush the tops with beaten egg to ensure they bake to a beautiful golden brown.
4
In a small saucepan, heat the water with the granulated sugar, remaining butter, and a little cinnamon until it becomes syrupy. Pour this mixture into the baking dish.
5
Place the dumplings in a buttered baking dish, pour the cinnamon syrup over them, and bake at 350°F (180°C) for about 40 minutes, or until golden brown and tender. Tip: If the tops are browning too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.
6
Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired. Tip: Drizzle the remaining syrup over the scoops when serving.
