Caramel Pecan Apple Dumplings are a delightful treat, perfect for the fall season when apples are at their peak. These sweet and nutty pastries bring together the crispness of Granny Smith apples with the buttery flakiness of puff pastry. It's the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Granny Smith apples are chosen for their tartness, which complements the sweetness of the caramel and sugar. Puff pastry provides a flaky, buttery crust that encases the apple slices beautifully. Caramel sauce adds a rich, sweet layer, while chopped pecans introduce a crunchy texture. Unsalted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg come together to create a warm, spiced filling that enhances the apples. A touch of salt balances the sweetness. Finally, the egg and milk wash gives the dumplings a golden, glossy finish.
These dumplings are lovely on their own, but for an extra touch, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold creaminess contrasts beautifully with the warm, flaky dumplings.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's at the right temperature when your dumplings are ready to bake. Next, peel and core your Granny Smith apples, then slice each into 8 equal wedges. This size works perfectly for wrapping in the pastry.
Roll out your puff pastry sheet and cut it into 8 even squares. If you're dealing with a smaller sheet, you might need to adjust slightly, but aim for squares that comfortably wrap around the apple slices. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This mixture will add a lovely spiced sweetness to your dumplings.
Place one apple wedge onto each square of pastry. Drizzle a little caramel sauce over the apple, then sprinkle with the sugar-spice mixture and some chopped pecans. Wrap the pastry tightly around the apple slice, pinching the edges to seal them. It helps to moisten your fingers slightly if the pastry isn't sticking well.
Arrange the dumplings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Brush each dumpling with the egg and milk mixture, which will help them develop a beautiful golden color as they bake. Pop them in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until they're golden brown and bubbly. Once baked, let them cool slightly before serving so the flavors can meld together.
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