1. Make the Dough
In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter (or fingers) until crumbly.
Stir in milk just until dough forms. Roll into a ball and chill for 15 minutes.
2. Prep the Apples
Peel and core apples, then cut in half (or leave whole for larger dumplings).
Toss with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
3. Assemble the Dumplings
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll dough into a 12x18-inch rectangle, then cut into 6 squares.
Place an apple half (or whole apple) in each square.
Fold dough over apples, pinching edges to seal. Place in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
4. Make the Syrup
In a saucepan, combine water, sugars, and butter. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Pour hot syrup over dumplings.
5. Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 35-45 minutes, until pastry is golden and apples are tender.
Baste halfway with syrup for extra flavor.
6. Serve Warm!
Let cool slightly, then serve with ice cream and a drizzle of caramel or extra syrup.
Pro Tips for the Best Apple Dumplings
🍏 Apple Choice Matters – Tart apples (Granny Smith) balance the sweetness.
🧈 Keep Butter Cold – For the flakiest crust, don’t let it soften too much.
🔥 Extra Crispy Crust? Brush with egg wash before baking.
🍯 Syrup Too Thin? Simmer longer to thicken before pouring.
⏳ Make Ahead – Assemble unbaked dumplings, refrigerate overnight, then bake fresh.
Serving Ideas
☕ Classic – Warm with vanilla ice cream.
🍁 Fall Twist – Add chopped pecans to the filling.
🎄 Holiday Style – Serve with spiced whipped cream.
🍶 Breakfast Option – Enjoy with a dollop of Greek yogurt.
