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 9x13-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.
