If you have a soft spot for comforting, fall-inspired desserts that feel like a warm hug in pastry form, then this Apple Dumplings Recipe is exactly what you need. Wrapped in golden, flaky dough and bursting with tender, cinnamon-sugared apples and buttery pockets, these dumplings are a delightful treat that blends simple ingredients into a magical, cozy dessert. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe brings out the best in humble apples with a charming presentation that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients come together like old friends, each playing a starring role in flavor, texture, and that inviting golden color. Using refrigerated pie crust keeps things simple while delivering the perfect flaky shell for the soft, spiced apple filling.
- Refrigerated pie crust (2 packages, 850 grams): The flaky, buttery foundation that wraps around the apples with ease and browns beautifully in the oven.
- Small apples (4): Tart and crisp apples are perfect here, their tender flesh soaking up the cinnamon sugar and butter inside.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, cold and cubed): Adds richness and pockets of melted goodness inside each dumpling.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup, 100 grams): Sweetens the filling while balancing the tartness of the apples.
- Ground cinnamon (2 tablespoons, 18 grams): Infuses the filling with warm, inviting spice that’s essential to this classic flavor combo.
How to Make Apple Dumplings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Space
First things first: preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step sets you up for success by ensuring your dumplings bake evenly and don’t stick, giving that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Roll and Cut the Pastry
Roll out your pie crust to about â…›-inch thickness, then carefully cut it into 8×8-inch squares. This size perfectly fits each apple half and makes assembly neat and manageable.
Step 3: Create Leaf Decorations
With a sharp knife, cut out charming leaf shapes to adorn the dumplings. Press veins into the leaves with the back of the knife for a natural, rustic touch. Keep these pastry leaves cold for the best texture later.
Step 4: Prepare the Apples
Peel each apple, then core them partway down to the bottom, removing all seeds but keeping the base intact. Cut each apple in half lengthwise—this creates a cozy pocket for the cinnamon butter filling.
Step 5: Mix Cinnamon Sugar and Butter
Combine the sugar and cinnamon, and toss the cold butter cubes into this mixture. This blend will melt during baking, soaking the apples in a rich, spiced syrup that makes these dumplings irresistible.
Step 6: Assemble the Dumplings
Place some cinnamon-butter cubes into the cored space of each apple half, then set the apple cut-side down onto a pastry square. Gently bring the pastry edges up and around the apple, crimping to seal the dumpling tightly—moisten edges with a bit of water or egg wash if needed.
Step 7: Top with Leaves and Chill
Dip the pastry leaf ends in water and press them decoratively onto each dumpling’s top. If you like, add a little pastry stem for extra charm. Place all dumplings on the baking sheet and chill while you prepare the egg wash.
Step 8: Bake and Glaze
Brush the dumplings with a simple egg wash (one egg mixed with a tablespoon of water) to encourage beautiful browning. Bake for 15 minutes before adding a second egg wash and sprinkling cinnamon sugar if you want extra sparkle. Finish baking another 10-15 minutes until perfectly golden. If the apples brown too quickly, lower the oven to 375°F for the last stage.
How to Serve Apple Dumplings Recipe
Garnishes
A generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce perfectly complements these apple dumplings. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar adds a final, elegant flourish.
Side Dishes
Pair apple dumplings with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or alongside a cup of spiced chai tea for the ultimate cozy dessert experience. They also work well after a hearty fall supper, rounding out the meal with sweet warmth.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve each dumpling on a rustic wooden board garnished with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks for a charming, festival-style presentation. For special occasions, add edible flowers or a splash of crème anglaise to elevate the dish further.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover apple dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to preserve the pastry’s flakiness and keep the filling warm and tender.
Freezing
This Apple Dumplings Recipe freezes beautifully. Assemble but do not bake the dumplings, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to two months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Reheating
Warm leftover apple dumplings in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to crisp the pastry again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful flakiness crisp and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pastry for apple dumplings?
Absolutely! Puff pastry works wonderfully and gives a light, flaky texture. Just be mindful of baking times, as puff pastry may brown faster.
What type of apples are best for this recipe?
Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal because they hold their shape and balance the sweetness of the sugar and butter.
Can I make these dumplings vegan?
Yes! Use a plant-based pie crust and substitute the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil. Also, swap the egg wash for a plant-based milk to get that beautiful golden crust.
Is it necessary to chill the dumplings before baking?
Chilling helps the pastry firm up and prevents it from becoming soggy, ensuring your dumplings bake to a perfect crispness.
Can I add spices other than cinnamon?
Definitely! Adding a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or even cardamom can give a unique twist on the classic flavor of this Apple Dumplings Recipe.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making and sharing this Apple Dumplings Recipe. It’s an easy, nostalgic way to bring joy and warmth into any kitchen. If you love the comforting flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples wrapped in flaky pastry, give this recipe a try and watch it become a beloved favorite in your home as it is in mine.
