Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings
Experience the refined pleasure of Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings, an exquisite dessert that encapsulates the essence of autumn with its selection of baking apples enveloped in a delicate pie crust, filled with a harmoniously spiced sugar blend, and finished with an elegant apple juice sauce. This recipe promises a delightful journey into traditional baking, offering a sophisticated twist on a timeless classic.
Ingredients
- Apples: 6 medium-sized baking apples such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, selected for their flavor and baking properties.
- Pie Dough: Sufficient for a 9-inch double crust pie either artisanal or commercially procured, to ensure a flaky texture.
- For the Filling:
- 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter divided into 6 equal portions.
- 6 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
- 1 teaspoon of apple pie spice blend.
- For the Sauce:
- 1 cup of unfiltered apple juice or cider.
- ¾ cup of light brown sugar lightly packed.
- ¼ cup of unsalted butter.
Instructions
- Begin by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Proceed to thoroughly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Apple Preparation: Carefully peel and core the apples, placing them in cold water mixed with a small amount of lemon juice to prevent oxidation and discoloration.
- Dough Preparation: If using artisanal pie dough, roll it out to a rectangle approximately 21×14 inches in size, then divide into 6 equal squares, each 7×7 inches. For commercially procured pie dough, simply unroll and divide into 6 equal pieces.
- Filling Mixture: In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar with the apple pie spice blend until well combined.
- Assembling the Dumplings: Place a cored apple on the center of each piece of dough. Insert a portion of butter into the center of each apple, followed by a tablespoon of the sugar and spice mixture. Gently bring the edges of the dough over the apple, sealing at the top. Place each dumpling in the prepared baking dish.
- Sauce Preparation: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sauce ingredients. Stir occasionally until the mixture comes to a rolling boil and the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Final Touches: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the dumplings, sprinkling any remaining sugar and spice mixture on top.
- Baking: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the dumplings are golden brown and the apples are tender. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
This sophisticated rendition of Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings offers a delightful end to any meal, promising a warm, spiced, and sweetly comforting experience.
