Go Back

Grandma’s Apple Dumplings

These delightful apple dumplings feature tender pastry wrapped around spiced apples, creating a comforting and nostalgic dessert perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature Ensure it's at room temperature for a flaky texture.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup cold water
For the Filling
  • 4 medium apples (your choice, like Granny Smith or Fuji) Choose tart apples for a nice contrast.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Syrup
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Method
 

Prepare the Dough
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, kneading until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Prep the Apples
  1. Peel and core the apples. In a bowl, mix together the cinnamon, sugar, and lemon juice. Stuff each apple with this mixture.
Roll Out the Dough
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into squares large enough to wrap around each apple.
Wrap the Apples
  1. Place a stuffed apple in the center of each dough square. Fold the corners over and pinch to seal, forming a dumpling shape. Place them in a greased baking dish.
Make the Syrup
  1. In a saucepan, bring water, sugar, and cinnamon to a boil. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. Pour the syrup over the dumplings.
Bake
  1. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Let them cool slightly before serving.
Serve & Enjoy
  1. Drizzle with additional syrup or top with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra treat!

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through. Unbaked dumplings can be frozen for up to two months.