Few desserts evoke the feeling of warmth and comfort like hot apple dumplings. These little bundles of spiced apples wrapped in buttery pastry are baked to golden perfection, swimming in a rich cinnamon syrup. Whether served for a special occasion or just a cozy evening treat, hot apple dumplings are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall.
In this detailed recipe, we’ll guide you through creating tender, flaky apple dumplings with just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, we’ll offer tips and variations that will keep readers engaged and eager to try this dish for themselves!
Why You’ll Love Hot Apple Dumplings
- Warm and Comforting: Perfect for chilly days, this dessert brings the coziness of baked apples and spices into every bite.
- Rich Cinnamon Syrup: A simple syrup transforms the dumplings into a decadent treat as it thickens during baking.
- Flaky Pastry Crust: The pastry dough becomes perfectly golden, offering a contrast to the soft, spiced apples.
- Easy to Customize: Change up the spices or use different types of apples to suit your taste.
Ingredients for Hot Apple Dumplings
For the Dumplings:
- 2 large Granny Smith apples (or your favorite baking apple)
- 1 package of refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pastry dough)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into 8 small pieces)
For the Syrup:
- 1 cup water
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Optional Add-ins
- Chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture inside the dumplings
- Raisins or dried cranberries for added sweetness
- A pinch of ground ginger or cloves for extra spice