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Homemade Apple Dumplings
There’s something about the smell of baked apples wafting through my kitchen that just feels like home. Growing up, my grandma would whip up these delightful Homemade Apple Dumplings every fall, and it was a family tradition of ours to gather around the table and dive into their sweet, gooey goodness. Whenever I’m having a tough day, I make these dumplings not just for a comforting treat, but also to reminisce about those cherished moments. The combination of flaky dough enveloping tender apples topped with syrup is pure magic. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be transported back to simpler, sweeter times!
So pull up a chair! Let’s dive into a recipe that’s not just easy but also brings together the warmth of family and the joy of indulgent desserts. You’ll love how simple it is to recreate this classic treat, and I promise, everyone will be begging for seconds!
What’s in Homemade Apple Dumplings?
- 2 large apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) – These apples are tart and hold up beautifully during baking. Granny Smith is my go-to for a nice punch of flavor!
- 1 sheet of refrigerated pie crust (or homemade pie dough) – Why complicate things? I love the convenience of store-bought crusts, but if you’re feeling adventurous, go ahead and make your own!
- 1/2 cup sugar – This sweetens everything up! You could use brown sugar for a deeper flavor if you prefer.
- 1/2 cup water – This helps create that delightful syrup that seeps into the dumplings.
- 1 tsp cinnamon – Because who doesn’t love the aroma of cinnamon mingling with baked apples?
- 1/4 cup butter (1/2 stick) – Butter makes everything better! It adds richness to the syrup that is just divine.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – A secret weapon to elevate flavors and add a hint of warmth.
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting – This adds a touch of sweetness and makes the presentation oh-so-pretty!
Is Homemade Apple Dumplings Good for You?
When it comes to comfort food like homemade apple dumplings, it’s all about balance. The stars of the show here, the apples, are packed with dietary fiber and vitamin C. They’re a healthy fruit choice! However, the pie crust, sugar, and butter do step in to remind us that moderation is key if you’re watching your diet.
While indulging in sweet treats now and then is perfectly fine, it’s wise to enjoy these dumplings as a special treat rather than an everyday snack. Perhaps share them with family or friends, or make a half-batch if you’re concerned about leftovers tempting you all week long!
Ingredients List
- 2 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 sheet of refrigerated pie crust
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup butter (1/2 stick)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make Homemade Apple Dumplings?
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the apples by peeling and coring them. Cut them in half to create two halves for each apple.
- Roll out the pie crust on a lightly floured surface and cut it into quarters. Each quarter should be large enough to wrap around half an apple.
- Place one apple half in the center of each pie crust quarter and sprinkle a little sugar and cinnamon inside the hollow of the apple.
- Fold the dough around the apple half, sealing it well, and place each wrapped dumpling in a greased baking dish.
- In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, butter, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar.
- Pour the syrup over the dumplings in the baking dish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Delicious Tips and Tricks
- Serve warm, drizzled with the syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added sweetness.
- Ice cream or whipped cream makes a great accompaniment for these delicious apple dumplings. Trust me; the contrast of warm dumplings with cold cream is heavenly!
- If you have any leftovers (though I doubt it!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat in the oven for best results, because no one likes a soggy dumpling!
If you haven’t already, I strongly encourage you to gather your family or a few friends and whip up these Homemade Apple Dumplings. They really are a labor of love, but the incredible aroma and comforting flavors are worth every minute. And please, I want to hear what you think! Share your own apple dumpling adventures or any fun variations you come up with!
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