Introduction

Authentic old-fashioned apple dumplings are a delightful dessert that combines tender baked apples with a rich, flaky pastry. This comforting dish is perfect for showcasing the flavors of fresh apples, particularly during the fall season. You can enjoy it warm, straight out of the oven, drizzled with warm vanilla sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of sweet apples, cinnamon, and the buttery dumpling makes for a mouthwatering experience that evokes nostalgia and warmth.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Apples: 2 to 4 medium (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
All-purpose flour: 2 cups
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup
Butter: 1/2 cup (softened)
Milk: 1/2 cup
Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Brown sugar: 1/2 cup
Water: 1 cup

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 4 to 6 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Apples

Peel and core the apples, making sure to remove the seeds and any tough parts.

Make the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add in the cold water gradually, mixing until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Roll Out the Dough

After chilling, divide the dough into equal portions. On a floured surface, roll out each portion into thin circles, large enough to wrap around the apples.

Assemble the Dumplings

Place one apple in the center of each dough circle. Fill the cavity of the apple with butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Wrap the dough around the apple, ensuring to seal all edges securely.

Prepare the Syrup

In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and vanilla extract. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the sugar to dissolve completely.

Cook the Dumplings

Place the assembled dumplings in the slow cooker. Pour the prepared syrup over the dumplings. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the apples are tender.

Serve the Dumplings

Once cooked, remove the dumplings carefully from the slow cooker. Serve warm, optionally with ice cream or caramel sauce.

Notes

Apple Selection

Choose firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results, as they hold their shape during cooking.

Adjusting Sweetness

Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar in both the filling and syrup according to your taste preference.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.

Serving Suggestions

These apple dumplings pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added richness.

Cook techniques

Peeling Apples

To prepare the apples, begin by peeling them thoroughly. This removes the skin, ensuring a softer texture for the dumplings after cooking.

Core and Cut the Apples

Once peeled, core the apples and cut them in half or quarters, depending on your desired size. This allows the filling to seep inside during cooking.

Making the Dough

Combine flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder to create the dough. Make sure to mix well to achieve a consistent texture, which will encase the apples.

Preparing the Syrup

In a separate bowl, mix together brown sugar, butter, and water to create a syrup. This mixture will add moisture and flavor as it cooks with the dumplings.

Wrapping the Apples

Take a portion of dough and roll it out to wrap around each apple piece. Ensure that the apple is completely encased to prevent leakage during cooking.

Layering in the Slow Cooker

Place the wrapped apples in the slow cooker, layering them carefully. This helps them cook evenly and absorb the syrup.

Setting Cooking Time

Set the slow cooker to the appropriate cooking time as recommended in the recipe, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Finishing Touches

Once the cooking time has elapsed, check for doneness. If necessary, additional time can be added to ensure the apples are tender.

FAQ

Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a variety of apples. Choose those that are firm and suitable for baking to achieve the best results.

Is there a gluten-free option for the dough?

A gluten-free flour blend can be used as a substitute for regular flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the microwave or slow cooker.

Can I prepare these dumplings in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dumplings ahead of time and keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them.

What can I serve with apple dumplings?

Apple dumplings are delightful on their own but are also delicious when served with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Conclusion

The Authentic Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings is a delightful recipe that captures the essence of classic comfort food. With its tender dumplings wrapped around juicy apples, all drenched in a sweet cinnamon sauce, it serves as a perfect dessert for any occasion. This dish not only delivers on flavor but also evokes nostalgic memories, making it a must-try for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike.

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