If you’re on the hunt for a warm, cozy dessert that’s bursting with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple goodness, you’ve just found a true classic with this Apple Dumplings Dessert Recipe. It’s the kind of homey treat that fills your kitchen with aromas so inviting that everyone will be asking for seconds before you’ve even finished plating. This recipe combines tender apples wrapped in flaky dough, baked in a luscious buttery syrup that’s perfectly balanced with just the right touch of cinnamon and nutmeg. Whether you’re looking for a nostalgic comfort dessert or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this Apple Dumplings Dessert Recipe will transform simple ingredients into a stand-out dish everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these ingredients lined up is simple, and each one is key to creating the perfect texture and flavor profile. From the tender apples to the flaky dough and rich buttery syrup, every component has a delicious role to play.
- 6 medium apples: Choose crisp varieties like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for a sweeter bite; these will hold shape beautifully when baked.
- 6 teaspoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture inside each dumpling.
- 6 teaspoons granulated sugar: Sweetens the apple filling for a perfect balance to the cinnamon spice.
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon: Infuses the filling with warm, aromatic spice that defines the dessert’s character.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the tender dough; keep extra on hand for rolling.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness in the dough.
- ¾ cup solid shortening (chilled): Creates a flaky, buttery crust with the perfect tender crumb.
- ½ cup whole milk: Moistens the dough to just the right consistency.
- 2 cups granulated sugar (for syrup): Sweetens the syrup that soaks into the dumplings as they bake.
- 1 cup water: Forms the syrup base to keep the dumplings moist and flavorful.
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon: Adds a subtle, spicy warmth to the syrup.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Gives the syrup a cozy, slightly nutty undertone.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Melted into the syrup for added richness.
- 1 egg: Brushed on the dough to give the dumplings a shiny, golden-brown finish.
- 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash): Helps thin the egg for an even, glossy coat on the crust.
How to Make Apple Dumplings Dessert Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Start by peeling and coring each apple carefully. You want to keep them whole for the dumplings to wrap around. Once cored, stuff each apple with a teaspoon of butter, a teaspoon of sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This little filling inside will melt into the apples, making each bite bursting with sweet, buttery flavor.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, combine your flour and kosher salt. Cut in the chilled shortening using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add the milk and mix just until the dough begins to come together — be careful not to overwork it. Chill the dough for about 15 minutes if time allows; this makes rolling it out easier and results in extra flaky dumplings.
Step 3: Wrap the Apples
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut the dough into 6 equal squares large enough to wrap around each apple. Place the stuffed apple in the center of a square and gently fold the corners up to seal, pinching the dough together at the top. This wrapping traps the luscious filling inside while the dough crisps up beautifully.
Step 4: Prepare the Syrup
In a saucepan, bring 2 cups sugar, 1 cup water, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 4 tablespoons butter to a boil. Stir until the sugar dissolves and butter melts completely. This syrup will be poured over the dumplings before baking, soaking into the pastry and apple for delightful sweetness and spice.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the wrapped apples in a baking dish and brush each one with an egg wash made by beating together 1 egg and 1 tablespoon water. Pour the syrup evenly over the dumplings. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 35 minutes until the dumplings are golden brown and the syrup is bubbly. Let them cool slightly – the syrup thickens as it cools, making each serving irresistibly saucy.
How to Serve Apple Dumplings Dessert Recipe
Garnishes
Top your dumplings with a scoop of rich vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or a dusting of powdered cinnamon will add textural contrast and enhance aroma, making every bite extra special.
Side Dishes
Serve apple dumplings alongside a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee for a complete comfort experience. For an elegant twist, a drizzle of caramel sauce or a small serving of sharp cheddar cheese can beautifully complement the sweet and savory mix of flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve individual dumplings in mini cast-iron skillets or rustic ramekins. Garnish with cinnamon sticks or fresh mint leaves to add a pop of color and flair. Alternatively, slice the dumplings in half and layer them with vanilla custard for a delectable trifle-style dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dumplings actually taste wonderful cold or can be gently warmed.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked wrapped apples on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and proceed with the syrup and baking as usual for fresh-from-the-oven goodness.
Reheating
Warm leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that lovely crispness of the crust. Reheat gently to maintain the dessert’s texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith hold their shape nicely, using sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala can create a softer, more mellow flavor. Feel free to mix apple types for a more complex taste.
Is shortening necessary for the dough?
Shortening helps achieve the flaky texture in this dough. You can substitute chilled butter, but the crust may be a bit less tender. Many bakers prefer shortening for its superior flakiness in fruit dumplings.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
With some adaptations, yes. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Be mindful the texture might be slightly different, but the flavor stays wonderful.
How do I know when the dumplings are done?
Look for golden brown dough with bubbly syrup around the edges. The apples should be tender but not mushy. If unsure, test one with a fork—it should pierce easily without collapsing.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely. This recipe scales well. Just be sure to use a larger baking dish or two to avoid overcrowding, which could affect baking time and texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the simplicity and warmth of this Apple Dumplings Dessert Recipe. It combines humble ingredients to create a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re treating yourself on a chilly evening or sharing with loved ones at a holiday gathering, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and that wonderful “homemade” feeling. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try—you won’t regret diving into this delicious tradition!
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 features tender apples wrapped in a flaky, buttery dough, baked to golden perfection and drizzled with a sweet cinnamon-spiced syrup. It’s a comforting, home-style treat perfect for fall or any time you crave a warm, fruity dessert.
Ingredients
For the Dumpling Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ cup solid shortening (chilled)
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon water
For the Filling:
- 6 medium apples
- 6 teaspoons unsalted butter
- 6 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
For the Syrup:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and kosher salt. Cut in the chilled shortening using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add the milk and mix until a soft dough forms. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and 1 tablespoon of water, then add this to the dough, kneading gently until fully incorporated. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Apples: Peel the apples and core them, leaving the bottom whole to hold the filling. Into the hollow of each apple, place 1 teaspoon of unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, and a sprinkle of cinnamon (about ¼ teaspoon). Set aside.
- Roll Out the Dough: Lightly flour your countertop and rolling pin with an additional ½ cup flour. Roll the dough out into a large rectangle, about ¼-inch thick. Cut the dough into 6 equal squares large enough to wrap around each apple completely.
- Assemble the Dumplings: Place one prepared apple in the center of each dough square. Fold the dough up and around the apple, pinching the seams to seal tightly at the top. Place each dumpling seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Make the Syrup: In a saucepan, combine 2 cups granulated sugar, 1 cup water, ¼ teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and 4 tablespoons of butter. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Remove from heat.
- Bake the Dumplings: Pour the syrup evenly over the dumplings in the baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 35 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through, and the syrup is bubbling.
- Serve: Remove the dumplings from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm, spooning the syrup over the top. Optionally, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and tang.
- Ensure the shortening is cold when incorporated into the dough for flakier results.
- To avoid soggy bottoms, make sure the dumplings are placed seam-side down in the baking dish.
- Leftover syrup can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated as a sauce for pancakes or ice cream.
- For making ahead, you can assemble the dumplings and refrigerate them covered before baking.
