There's something undeniably comforting about the warm, spiced aroma of Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings baking in the oven. This classic dessert wraps tender, cinnamon-spiced apples in a flaky puff pastry, creating a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Perfect for fall, this recipe embodies the cozy essence of the season.
Granny Smith apples are the star here, chosen for their tartness which balances the sweetness of the syrup. Puff pastry provides a flaky, buttery shell that's quick and easy to use. The combination of granulated sugar, water, and unsalted butter forms a rich syrup that infuses the apples with sweetness and moisture. A touch of vanilla extract adds depth, while ground cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and spice. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, and a beaten egg gives the pastry a golden finish.
Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings are delightful on their own, but serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes them to the next level. For a cozy touch, drizzle some of the warm syrup from the baking dish over the top just before serving. A hot cup of spiced cider or a glass of chilled dessert wine pairs beautifully with this dessert.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it will be ready when you are. While the oven is warming up, peel and core the Granny Smith apples, then slice them into halves. This allows each dumpling to have a perfect portion of apple.
Next, roll out your thawed puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface. Cut each sheet into quarters, aiming for even squares. Place a half apple in the center of each square. This will be the heart of your dumpling.
Now, let's make the syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, unsalted butter, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts.
Pour a generous amount of this aromatic syrup over each apple half, then fold the corners of the pastry over each apple. Pinch the edges to seal, ensuring the apple is snugly wrapped in its pastry blanket.
Brush each dumpling with the beaten egg. This step is crucial for achieving that beautiful golden-brown crust. Place the dumplings in a baking dish, and if there's any syrup left, go ahead and pour it over them for extra flavor.
Bake the dumplings in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the apples are tender. You'll know they're done when your kitchen is filled with a heavenly, spiced aroma. Let them cool slightly before serving warm.
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