Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe

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There is something truly magical about a warm, comforting dessert that brings back memories of simpler times, and this Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe does just that. Imagine tender, cinnamon-spiced apples wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust baked to golden perfection, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that invites you to gather around the table. This timeless recipe blends just the right amount of sweetness and spice, making it an absolute favorite for cozy evenings or special family gatherings. Get ready to fall in love with these delightful apple dumplings that feel like a warm hug wrapped in pastry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe relies on a handful of humble ingredients that come together beautifully to create a dish full of flavor, texture, and vibrant warmth. Each element plays a crucial role—from the tender apples to the flaky dough, and the cozy spices that give it soul.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base of the dough providing structure and flakiness when properly mixed with butter and water.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors in the crust perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Gives the dough a light lift for a tender texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses both dough and filling with warm, fragrant spice.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Essential for that flaky, buttery dough we all crave.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to the pastry dough.
• 1/4 cup cold water (more if needed): Binds the dough just enough so it holds without being tough.
• 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Peeled and cored, these apples bring a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Mixed with spices, it caramelizes beautifully during baking giving a luscious filling.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Another hit of spice to the apple filling for that classic autumn flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, nutty warmth complementing the cinnamon.
• 1 tablespoon butter (for dotting on top): Melts over the dumplings creating a golden, slightly crispy finish.
• 1 cup water: Pours into the baking dish to keep dumplings moist and create a slightly saucy result.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Greasing a 9×9-inch baking dish ensures a non-stick surface for your dumplings to bake evenly and come out effortlessly every time.

Step 2: Ready the Apples

Peel and core your apples, then slice each into halves or quarters based on size. This way, they fit perfectly inside the dough squares and cook evenly without falling apart.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon. This blend provides a balanced flavor base for the dough that whispers of cozy evenings and warm kitchens.

Step 4: Incorporate the Butter

Add cold, cubed butter to your dry mix. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until it reaches pea-sized crumbs. This step is crucial for achieving that signature flaky crust we all adore.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Slowly add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, gently mixing until the dough starts to come together. If it feels too dry, don’t hesitate to add a bit more water; the dough should feel soft yet manageable.

Step 6: Roll and Cut the Dough

Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough into a 1/8-inch thick square or circle. Cut it into four squares large enough to wrap each apple piece snugly—this creates the perfect cradle for your luscious apple filling.

Step 7: Fill the Dumplings

Place each apple piece in the center of a dough square. Sprinkle generously inside each apple with brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg to infuse that classic spiced apple flavor right inside the core.

Step 8: Seal the Dumplings

Fold the dough over each apple and pinch the edges tightly to seal in all that wonderful sweetness and spice, ensuring none of the flavorful juices escape during baking.

Step 9: Prepare for Baking

Arrange your dumplings in the baking dish. Dot the tops with small pieces of butter and sprinkle with the remaining brown sugar and cinnamon. This finishing touch adds a luscious glaze that caramelizes beautifully.

Step 10: Add Water and Bake

Pour 1 cup of water around—not over—the dumplings to keep them tender and moist while baking. Then place them in the oven to bake for 40 to 45 minutes until golden brown and tender.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the dumplings cool for a few minutes before diving in. The apples will be perfectly tender, and the pastry flaky and buttery, making every bite a delight.

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe

Garnishes

Serving your apple dumplings warm is a must! Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream to create the ultimate comforting dessert. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate the presentation and flavor further.

Side Dishes

While these dumplings shine on their own, pairing them with a crisp autumn salad or a cup of rich hot coffee or tea can make dessert feel like a special occasion. For brunch, a glass of sparkling cider complements the spice perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, serve your Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe in individual ramekins or shallow bowls with a generous ladle of the buttery sauce that forms during baking. Garnish with fresh mint or cinnamon sticks for eye-catching appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as they rest, making for delicious second helpings served warm.

Freezing

You can freeze these dumplings before baking by wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month and bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through to restore that freshly-baked texture. Avoid microwaving, which can make the pastry soggy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are recommended for their balance of tartness and sweetness, other firm apples like Fuji or Pink Lady can work well too. Just ensure they are firm to avoid mushy dumplings.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, you can make a delicious gluten-free version. Be sure to check that the baking powder is also gluten-free.

Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?

Definitely! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins to the spiced brown sugar inside the apples offers a lovely crunch and extra bursts of flavor that complement the warm spices wonderfully.

How do I know when the dumplings are done?

Look for a golden brown crust and tender apples. You can test tenderness by gently piercing an apple with a fork; it should slide in with little resistance, but the apple pieces should still hold their shape.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before rolling and assembling. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out and bring it to a cool room temperature before rolling.

Final Thoughts

There is truly something heartwarming about making and sharing this Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe. Each bite is a comforting blend of flaky pastry and spiced apple filling that can brighten any day, whether it’s a casual weeknight or a festive family celebration. I hope you enjoy baking and savoring this classic dessert as much as I do—there’s nothing quite like the joy it brings to the table.

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