These Hot Apple Dumplings are a warm, comforting dessert that combines tender apples wrapped in flaky pastry, baked to golden perfection, and smothered in a buttery cinnamon-sugar sauce. This classic treat is perfect for fall, holidays, or anytime you want to indulge in something sweet and cozy. With their gooey filling, crispy crust, and rich sauce, these dumplings are downright irresistible. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dumplings:
- 4–6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough (or puff pastry sheets for a homemade touch)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter , melted
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- Caramel drizzle
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized pan with butter or nonstick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
- Peel and core the apples, leaving them whole. If they’re too large, cut them in half to make them easier to wrap.
- Open the crescent roll dough and separate it into triangles. Wrap each apple (or half) in a crescent roll triangle, pressing the seams to seal. Place the wrapped apples seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and water. Stir until the sugars dissolve and the mixture comes to a simmer.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the sauce evenly over the wrapped apples in the baking dish.
Step 4: Add Butter
- Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the dumplings and sauce. This adds richness and helps create a caramelized glaze as they bake.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes , or until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork. Baste the dumplings with the sauce halfway through baking for extra flavor.
Step 6: Serve Warm
- Remove the dumplings from the oven and let them cool slightly. Spoon some of the warm sauce from the pan over each dumpling before serving.
- Top with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Warm and Cozy: Perfect for fall or winter nights when you crave something sweet and comforting.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Customizable: Swap out spices or toppings to suit your taste.
Tips for Success:
- Choose the Right Apples: Use firm apples like Granny Smith for a tart flavor or Fuji/Honeycrisp for sweetness.
- Seal the Pastry Well: Ensure the crescent roll dough is tightly sealed around the apples to prevent the sauce from seeping in during baking.
- Baste for Flavor: Spooning the sauce over the dumplings halfway through baking ensures they’re coated in that rich, buttery goodness.
Ways to Enjoy Your Hot Apple Dumplings:
- For Dessert: Serve warm with ice cream for a classic à la mode experience.
- With Variations: Add chopped nuts, raisins, or a sprinkle of sea salt for added texture and depth.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
These Hot Apple Dumplings are the ultimate fall dessert—soft, spiced apples wrapped in buttery pastry and bathed in a sweet, sticky sauce. Whether you’re serving them for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just because, these dumplings are sure to become a family favorite. So grab your apples, roll out that dough, and get ready to enjoy a plateful of autumnal bliss! 🍂🍎