Baked Apple Dumplings
Baked Apple Dumplings are a delightful treat that combines tender, sweet apples wrapped in soft, flaky pastry with a touch of cinnamon and sugar. These little bundles bake up golden…
Tip: save now, cook later.Baked Apple Dumplings are a delightful treat that combines tender, sweet apples wrapped in soft, flaky pastry with a touch of cinnamon and sugar. These little bundles bake up golden and inviting, filling your kitchen with the warm smell of baked apples and spices. It’s a classic dessert that feels like a cozy hug on a plate.
I love making apple dumplings when I want something that feels special but isn’t too complicated. They’re surprisingly easy to put together, and you can customize the filling with a bit of nutmeg or a drizzle of caramel sauce. I find that the best part is sneaking a warm dumpling fresh from the oven—it’s like a little celebration in every bite.
These dumplings are perfect served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. I often bring them to family dinners or casual get-togethers because they’re always a hit. They remind me of chilly autumn evenings and the simple joy of sweet, homemade dessert that everyone loves.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I like Granny Smith for their tartness and firmness, but Honeycrisp or Fuji work nicely too. Avoid softer apples—they can get mushy when baked.
Dough: Crescent roll dough is easy and flaky, but puff pastry adds extra buttery layers if you want a more delicate crust.
Butter: Melted butter helps create a rich, golden crust. You can substitute with margarine or coconut oil if needed.
Spices: Cinnamon is key for that warm apple flavor. Nutmeg is optional but adds a nice subtle depth. Feel free to add a pinch of cloves or allspice for extra warmth.
How Can I Wrap the Apples Without the Dough Tearing?
Wrapping the apples snugly is important to keep the filling inside during baking. Here’s how I do it:
- Cut dough squares large enough to fully cover the apple slices with room to fold edges over.
- Place the apple spoonful in the center, then gently bring each corner up and pinch firmly to seal.
- If the dough feels dry or crumbly, lightly brush edges with water or beaten egg to help seal.
- Place them seam-side down in the baking dish to prevent unwrapping while baking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking dish – a glass or ceramic dish works great for even baking and easy cleanup.
- Mixing bowl – big enough to toss the apples with sugar and spices without spilling.
- Knife and cutting board – for peeling, coring, and slicing apples neatly.
- Pastry brush – great for brushing melted butter on the dough for a golden finish.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to get sugar, spices, and liquids just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans inside the dumplings for crunch and a nutty bite.
- Mix in raisins or dried cranberries with the apples for a chewy texture and a little tartness.
- Stir a pinch of ground ginger or cloves into the spice mix for a spicier, warming twist.
- Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce after baking to add a rich, sweet layer.
Baked Apple Dumplings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Apple Filling:
- 4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For The Dough and Topping:
- 1 package (about 2 sheets) refrigerated crescent roll dough or puff pastry sheets
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
For Serving:
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
It takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare the apple dumplings and 25-30 minutes to bake them. Allow a few extra minutes to cool before serving. So in total, around 45 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick and cozy dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. Peel, core, and slice the apples, then toss them in a large bowl with granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice until everything’s well coated.
2. Make The Dumplings:
Unroll your crescent roll dough or puff pastry sheets and cut into squares large enough to wrap around your apple filling. Place a spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of each square. Bring the corners up and pinch tightly to seal into a neat dumpling. Place each dumpling seam-side down in your greased baking dish.
3. Add Butter and Sugar Topping:
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the dumplings. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar with vanilla extract, then sprinkle this over the top of your dumplings. This will caramelize as it bakes and add a lovely, sweet glaze.
4. Bake and Serve:
Bake the apple dumplings in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are a beautiful golden brown and the apple filling is tender and bubbling. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.
Before serving, dust with powdered sugar. These dumplings are delightful on their own, but I especially love them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or some whipped cream for a truly comforting dessert.
Can I Use Frozen Apples for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen apples work fine but make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using. This helps prevent the dough from becoming soggy during baking.
Can I Make Baked Apple Dumplings Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dumplings and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 4 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving to keep the crust crispy and the filling warm.
What Other Toppings Can I Use Instead of Ice Cream?
If you prefer, serve your dumplings with whipped cream, caramel sauce, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for a delicious variation. Each adds a nice touch of sweetness and richness to the dish.