As the crisp fall air settles in, the scent of cinnamon and fresh apples brings back those cozy memories of family gatherings. I’ve found that there’s nothing quite as comforting as the aroma of Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings baking in the oven, a traditional dessert that has graced our table for generations. These delightful creations are a perfect balance of tender, sweet apples wrapped in flaky pastry, all swimming in a rich syrup bursting with warmth. Not only are they a crowd-pleaser, but they also come together in a surprisingly simple way, making them the ideal choice for a homemade treat. So, are you ready to dive into a slice of nostalgia and embrace the flavors of Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine? Let’s bring this family favorite to life together!
Why are Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings a must-try?
Tradition: These dumplings are a classic, rooted in Pennsylvania Dutch heritage, offering a taste of history with every bite.
Effortless Joy: The simple preparation means you can bring joy to your kitchen with minimal hassle.
Warmth of Flavor: Each dumpling is a warm hug, filled with sweet, tender apples and a heavenly syrup that complements perfectly.
Crowd Favorite: Whether for gatherings or cozy nights in, they never fail to impress friends and family alike.
Versatile Delight: Feel free to swap apples for pears in this recipe or drizzle them with caramel sauce for an added twist! Ready to explore more sweet options? Check out our Cranberry Apple Twice for a seasonal favorite!
Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Ingredients
• Dive into the cherished flavors of homemade Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings with this essential ingredient list!
For the Dough
- Flour – 2 c. – Key for structure; you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.
- Salt – 3/4 tsp. – Enhances the overall flavor; don’t skip this step!
- Shortening – 2/3 c. – Provides flakiness; butter can be used for a richer taste.
- Cold Water – 6-7 Tbsp. – Moistens the dough; using ice water keeps it cold for better texture.
For the Syrup
- Water – 1 1/2 c. – Serves as the syrup base.
- Sugar – 1 1/2 c. – Adds delightful sweetness to balance the filling.
- Cinnamon – 1/2 tsp. – Brings a warm flavor note to the syrup.
- Butter or Margarine – 3 Tbsp. – Adds richness to the syrup blend.
For the Filling
- Medium Apples (peeled and cored) – 6 apples – These are the stars of the dish; choose tart varieties like Granny Smith for the best contrast.
- Sugar – 1/2 c. – Sweetens the apple filling beautifully.
- Cinnamon – 1 tsp. – Elevates the apple flavor for a comforting finish.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of flour and 3/4 teaspoon of salt, stirring to incorporate. Cut in 2/3 cup of shortening using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add 6-7 tablespoons of ice-cold water, mixing until a soft dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to enhance flakiness.
Step 2: Make the Syrup
While the dough chills, prepare the syrup. In a medium saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups of sugar, 1 1/2 cups of water, and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and mix in 3 tablespoons of butter or margarine until melted and smooth. Set the syrup aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
For the apple filling, mix 1/2 cup of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon in a small bowl. This will enhance the natural sweetness of the apples. Next, peel and core 6 medium apples, ensuring they’re ready to be stuffed. This is the heart of your Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings, so choose tart varieties like Granny Smith for a delightful taste contrast.
Step 4: Assemble Dumplings
Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface into an 18×12-inch rectangle. Cut the dough into six 6-inch squares. Place one apple at the center of each square, then fill each apple with about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the sugar-cinnamon mixture. Moisten the edges of the dough and fold the corners over the apple, pinching to seal tightly.
Step 5: Bake the Dumplings
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and carefully place the assembled dumplings inside, ensuring they are spaced apart. Pour the prepared syrup over the dumplings, allowing them to soak in the sweet flavors. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, until the apples are tender and the dumplings are lightly browned and puffed.
Step 6: Serve and Delight
Once baked, remove the Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, possibly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of cream for added richness. Each bite is a comforting reminder of home, perfect for sharing during cozy fall days!
Make Ahead Options
These Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance: simply roll out the dough and stuff the apples, then refrigerate them in an airtight container until you’re ready to bake. If you want to prep even further ahead, the assembled dumplings can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well-wrapped to maintain quality. When you’re ready to enjoy, place the frozen dumplings in a greased baking dish, pour the syrup over them, and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for those delightful, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings
Fridge: Keep your leftover baked Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their delicious flavors and textures.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze uncooked dumplings in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, bake frozen dumplings directly from the freezer at 375°F for about 55-60 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
Thawing: If you prefer, refrigerate the dumplings overnight to thaw, then bake as usual for approximately 45 minutes.
What to Serve with Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings
As you savor the delightful flavors of these warm, homemade dumplings, consider creating a full meal that warms the heart and soul.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Perfectly complement the warm dumplings with a creamy scoop that melts into the syrup, creating a soothing contrast.
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Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Whip up some cream infused with cinnamon to add a light and airy topping, enhancing every bite with festive flavor.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over the dumplings for an indulgent twist that elevates the traditional recipe to a sweet extravaganza.
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Nutty Crumble Topping: Add a crumbly topping made with oats and nuts for a crunchy texture that perfectly contrasts the soft, tender dumplings.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Serve a warm mug of spiced apple cider alongside the dumplings to deepen the cozy fall experience and warm you from within.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast, balancing the sweetness of the dumplings and bringing a vibrant touch to your table.
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Buttery Biscuits: Soft, flaky biscuits offer an additional comfort element, perfect for scooping up syrup and piecing together a hearty meal.
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Pumpkin Soup: Start your meal with a creamy pumpkin soup, where the fall flavors echo those in the dumplings, creating a seamless dining experience.
Expert Tips for Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings
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Chill the Dough: Always remember to chill your dough for at least an hour. This helps create a flakier pastry, making your dumplings even more delightful.
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Apple Selection: Choose tart apples, like Granny Smith, for the filling. They provide a wonderful contrast to the sweetness of the syrup and keep their shape well while baking.
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Seal Properly: When assembling your dumplings, ensure the edges are moistened and securely pinched. This prevents any filling from leaking out during baking.
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Syrup Matters: Coat your dumplings generously with syrup before baking. It not only adds sweetness but also helps in achieving that golden-brown finish.
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Make-Ahead Magic: Did you know? You can freeze your assembled dumplings before baking! Just make sure to prepare the syrup fresh just before baking for the best results.
Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Variations
Feel free to give your Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings a personal touch that suits your taste buds!
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Fruit Swap: Replace apples with pears or peaches for a delightful twist; each fruit brings its own unique flavor.
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Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the apple filling for a satisfying crunch and rich texture.
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Caramel Drizzle: Instead of syrup, drizzle your dumplings with caramel sauce before serving for an indulgent sweetness.
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Spiced Touch: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon-sugar filling for an exciting depth of flavor.
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Baking Options: For a richer crust, consider using a puff pastry instead of traditional dough for extra layers of flakiness and taste.
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Vegan Variation: Swap shortening for coconut oil and use maple syrup instead for a delightful vegan-friendly option.
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Seasoned Sweetness: Infuse your syrup with some orange zest or maple extract for a refreshing aromatic twist that complements the apples beautifully.
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Apple-Cranberry Dumplings: Mix in a handful of fresh cranberries with the apple filling for a sweet and tart flavor explosion; perfect for the holidays or any fall gathering!
If you’re enjoying this cozy fall favorite, you might also love our Apple Crumble Chia pudding for another apple-inspired dessert! Or try these delectable Pumpkin Pie Apples to explore new flavors!
Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using tart varieties like Granny Smith apples. Their natural tartness beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the syrup, creating a delightful balance of flavors. These apples also hold their shape well during baking, ensuring the dumplings remain intact and delicious.
How should I store baked Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings?
To keep your leftover baked dumplings fresh, place them in an airtight container. They will stay tasty for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For the best texture, reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave to retain that delightful flakiness.
Can I freeze Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings?
Yes, you can! To freeze uncooked dumplings, assemble them as usual, then place in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Afterward, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw! Just bake them at 375°F for about 55-60 minutes until golden brown.
What if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough feels too dry and crumbly, don’t worry! Gradually add a bit more cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. It’s important to keep the dough cold, so make sure to chill it for at least an hour before rolling it out for the best results.
Can I use butter instead of shortening in the dough?
Very much! You can replace shortening with butter for a richer flavor. Just remember that using butter may add a bit of tenderness to the dough, so be mindful not to overwork it when assembling the dumplings.
Are Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings safe for pets?
While apples are generally safe for dogs, the sugar and spices in the syrup might not be suitable for them. It’s always best to consult your veterinarian regarding specific ingredients before sharing any baked goods with your furry friends.
Delicious Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings for Cozy Fall Days
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt, then cut in shortening until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a soft dough forms. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- In a saucepan, combine sugar, water, and cinnamon. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and mix in butter until melted.
- Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl for the filling. Peel and core the apples and prepare them for stuffing.
- Roll out the chilled dough into an 18x12-inch rectangle, cut into six 6-inch squares. Place an apple at the center of each square, fill with sugar-cinnamon mixture, moisten edges, and seal tightly.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish, place dumplings in, and pour syrup over them. Bake for 45-50 minutes until apples are tender and dumplings are golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, possibly with ice cream or a drizzle of cream.
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