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–+ servings
Apple Dumplings
Apple Dumplings are a cherished dessert that combines the simplicity of baked apples with the comfort of pastry and spiced syrup. The origins of apple dumplings trace back to European settlers who adapted traditional fruit puddings into baked treats, eventually becoming popular in both American and British kitchens. The recipe features a sweet syrup flavored with cinnamon and nutmeg that’s poured over pastry-wrapped apples before baking, creating a caramel-like sauce that seeps into the fruit. The result is a tender apple encased in flaky crust, both nostalgic and indulgent, often enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of cream.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 cups water
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp cinnamon
  • 1 stick butter (or oleo)
  • Prepared apple dumplings (pastry-wrapped apples, not included in this syrup recipe)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Syrup

  • In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
  • Bring to a boil and cook for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Butter

  • Remove from heat and stir in ½ cup butter until melted.

Step 3: Assemble

  • Pour the hot syrup mixture evenly over prepared apple dumplings in a baking dish.

Step 4: Bake

  • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes or until golden brown and apples are tender.

Tips

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith inside dumplings for better flavor contrast
  • Add a splash of vanilla to the syrup after boiling for extra aroma
  • Sprinkle additional cinnamon sugar directly over the dumplings before baking
  • Substitute part of the water with apple cider for deeper apple flavor
  • Add chopped walnuts or pecans inside the dumplings for texture
  • Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
  • Brush dumplings lightly with milk or cream for a glossy top
  • If syrup thickens too much, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water and rewarm
  • For less sweetness, reduce sugar by ¼ to ½ cup without affecting texture

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 72gProtein: 2gFat: 11.5gSaturated Fat: 7.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 60mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 2gSugar: 56gVitamin A: 480IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 0.6mg
Keyword apple dessert, baked dessert, cinnamon, dumplings, fall baking, family recipe, nostalgic, vintage
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