If you’re a fan of classic desserts that warm your soul and bring a touch of nostalgia to your table, this Apple Dumplings Dessert Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender apples wrapped in flaky, buttery dough, baked to golden perfection, and drenched in a spiced syrup that’s just the right balance of sweet and cozy. This recipe is not only a comforting treat but also a celebration of simple ingredients transformed into something truly magical. Whether it’s a family gathering, a weekend indulgence, or a special occasion, these apple dumplings will quickly become one of your go-to desserts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Apple Dumplings Dessert Recipe relies on straightforward, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each element plays a pivotal role—from the crisp apples to the flaky dough and the luscious syrup that ties it all together.
- 6 medium apples: Choose firm and slightly tart apples for the best flavor and texture that hold up during baking.
- 6 teaspoons unsalted butter: Adds richness to the filling and keeps the dumplings moist.
- 6 teaspoons granulated sugar: Sweetens the apple centers beautifully.
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon: Provides warm, aromatic spice to the filling.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the dough; extra flour is needed for rolling.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the pastry.
- ¾ cup solid shortening (chilled): Creates tender, flaky pastry layers.
- ½ cup whole milk: Adds moisture and helps bind the dough.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Used in the syrup for soaking the dumplings.
- 1 cup water: The base of the syrup that keeps the dumplings lusciously soft.
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon: Gives the syrup a subtle warmth.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth and a gentle spice to the syrup.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melts into the syrup, making it rich and glossy.
- 1 egg: For an egg wash to give the pastry a golden, shiny finish.
- 1 tablespoon water: Mixed with the egg to help the wash apply evenly.
How to Make Apple Dumplings Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the all-purpose flour and kosher salt in a large bowl. Cut in the chilled shortening with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gently stir in the milk and mix just until the dough comes together without overworking it. Wrap in plastic and chill while you prepare the apples.
Step 2: Core and Fill the Apples
Peel and core each apple, leaving the base intact to hold the filling. In a small bowl, mix 6 teaspoons granulated sugar with 1½ teaspoons cinnamon. Stuff each apple with a teaspoon of butter and about a teaspoon of the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This filling will melt inside the apple during baking, creating a gooey, flavorful center.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about ⅛ inch thickness. Cut it into six squares large enough to fully wrap each apple. Place an apple in the center of each square, then carefully fold the dough around it, pinching the edges to seal tightly.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Wash
Beat the egg with the tablespoon of water, then brush the tops of each wrapped apple with the wash. This will give your dumplings a beautiful golden-brown finish once baked.
Step 5: Make the Syrup
In a saucepan, combine 2 cups granulated sugar, 1 cup water, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts completely. Let it simmer for a few minutes to meld the flavors.
Step 6: Bake the Dumplings
Place the wrapped apples in a baking dish and pour the warm syrup evenly over them. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 35 minutes, basting occasionally with the syrup to keep them moist and full of flavor.
How to Serve Apple Dumplings Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
Serving your apple dumplings with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream takes this dessert to the next level. For extra indulgence, a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the warm dumpling is pure bliss.
Side Dishes
Pair this divine dessert with a hot cup of spiced tea or a robust cup of coffee to balance the sweetness. If you want to transform it into a full dessert experience, serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to refresh the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual dumplings in rustic ceramic dishes with small pitchers of extra syrup on the side for guests to drizzle as they please. Alternatively, slice the dumplings once cooled slightly and layer them with caramel sauce and nuts for a stunning dessert parfait.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Apple dumplings keep beautifully covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place in an airtight container to preserve moisture and flavor. The syrup helps keep the pastries tender when stored properly.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked apple dumplings by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then placing them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake from frozen, adding extra cooking time to ensure they are cooked through.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes covered with foil to avoid excessive browning, uncovering during the last 10 minutes to crisp the pastry lightly.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples in this recipe?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith are great for contrast, you can also experiment with sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp. Just choose firmer apples that won’t turn mushy during baking.
Is there a substitute for shortening in the dough?
You can use cold butter instead of shortening for a richer flavor, but keep it chilled to maintain the dough’s flakiness. You might notice a slightly different texture, but the dumplings will still be delicious.
Can I make this dessert vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Swap out butter and milk for plant-based alternatives like vegan margarine and almond or oat milk. Use a flax egg or aquafaba instead of a regular egg for the wash, although the color may be less golden.
Should I peel the apples before preparing the dumplings?
Peeling the apples is ideal for a smoother texture and easier eating, but if you prefer a rustic feel and added fiber, you can leave the skins on. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat apple dumplings covered with foil to keep moisture locked in. Adding a bit of extra syrup or a splash of water before reheating can also help maintain their juiciness.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Dumplings Dessert Recipe is one of those delightful treasures that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple yet indulgent, comforting yet impressive enough for guests. I promise that once you try it, it’ll hold a special place in your recipe collection and your heart. So go ahead, gather those ingredients, and treat yourself to a slice of pure, cozy happiness.
Print
Apple Dumplings Dessert Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Apple Dumplings dessert recipe features tender, spiced apples wrapped in a flaky homemade dough, baked to golden perfection and then drenched in a sweet, buttery cinnamon syrup. It’s a comforting, nostalgic dessert that’s perfect for cooler evenings or any time you crave a warm, fruit-filled treat.
Ingredients
For the Apples and Filling:
- 6 medium apples
- 6 teaspoons unsalted butter
- 6 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (plus ½ cup for dusting)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ cup chilled solid shortening (such as Crisco)
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
For the Cinnamon Syrup:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel and core each apple, then stuff each center with 1 teaspoon butter, 1 teaspoon sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Set aside.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups flour and salt. Cut in chilled shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add milk, stirring until a soft dough forms. Remove dough onto a floured surface, knead gently, then roll out to approximately ¼ inch thickness. Cut dough into 6 large squares to wrap the apples.
- Wrap the Apples: Place each stuffed apple in the center of a dough square. Fold up corners and edges around the apple, sealing at the top. Place dumplings in a greased baking dish, with the seam side down.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: Beat together egg and 1 tablespoon water. Brush the tops of the dumplings to give them a golden finish.
- Bake the Dumplings: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake dumplings uncovered for 35 minutes or until golden and apples are tender.
- Make the Cinnamon Syrup: While dumplings bake, combine sugar, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and butter in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until butter is melted and syrup slightly thickens.
- Pour Syrup: Remove baked dumplings from the oven and immediately pour warm cinnamon syrup over them. Let dumplings absorb syrup for several minutes before serving.
Notes
- For firmer apples, adjust baking time slightly shorter; softer apples benefit from full 35-minute bake.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for balanced sweetness against the syrup.
- Syrup can be warmed and poured again before serving if needed to keep dumplings moist.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Dough can be chilled before rolling out to make it easier to handle.
