Grandma's Apple Dumplings

Grandma's Apple Dumplings Recipe - Traditional American Dessert

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Grandma's Apple Dumplings are a classic dessert that brings back memories of childhood and family gatherings. These delicious treats are made with tender apples wrapped in a flaky pastry and baked to perfection. The combination of sweet apples, sugar, cream, and maple syrup creates a mouthwatering dessert that is sure to please everyone at the table.

History

Apple dumplings have been a popular dessert in American cuisine for generations. The recipe is said to have originated in the early 19th century, when settlers in the United States began incorporating apples into their cooking. The dish quickly became a favorite among families, with each generation passing down their own version of the recipe. Grandma's Apple Dumplings are a cherished family recipe that has been enjoyed for years.

Ingredients

1 pie crust
6 cooking apples, peeled and cored
0.33 cup sugar
2 tbsp half-and-half cream
0.75 cup warmed maple syrup

How to prepare

On a floured surface, roll out the pastry to a rectangle measuring 18 x 12 inches.
Cut the pastry into squares measuring 6 inches.
Place an apple on each square.
Combine the sugar and cream, then spoon the mixture into the center of each apple.
Moisten the edges of the pastry.
Fold up the corners to the center and pinch to seal.
Place the sealed pastries on an ungreased baking dish.
Bake at 450°F (232°C) for 15 minutes.
Reduce the heat to 350°F and bake for approximately 30 minutes more.
Baste the apples with syrup twice during the baking time.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sugar and cream mixture for extra flavor.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the baked dumplings for a gooey topping.
Serve the dumplings with a side of caramelized nuts for added crunch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to peel and core the apples before wrapping them in the pastry.

- Use a good quality pie crust for the best results.

- Baste the apples with syrup during baking to keep them moist and flavorful.

- Serve the dumplings warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious treat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Grandma's Apple Dumplings warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a sweet treat.

Cooking Techniques

Baking: Grandma's Apple Dumplings are baked in the oven until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender.

- Basting: The apples are basted with syrup during baking to keep them moist and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

Pie crust: You can use store-bought or homemade pie crust for this recipe.

- Apples: Any variety of cooking apples can be used for this recipe.

- Maple syrup: You can substitute honey or agave nectar for the maple syrup.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare Grandma's Apple Dumplings ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Simply assemble the dumplings, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Grandma's Apple Dumplings on a decorative platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation. You can also garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Grandma's Apple Dumplings pair well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy dessert. They also go well with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Grandma's Apple Dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dumplings in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Grandma's Apple Dumplings contains approximately 300 calories. Calories are a measure of the energy provided by food and are important for maintaining a healthy weight.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Grandma's Apple Dumplings contains approximately 50 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for overall health.

Fats

Each serving of Grandma's Apple Dumplings contains approximately 10 grams of fat. Fat is important for providing energy, supporting cell growth, and aiding in the absorption of vitamins.

Proteins

Each serving of Grandma's Apple Dumplings contains approximately 2 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Grandma's Apple Dumplings are a good source of vitamin C, which is important for immune function and skin health. They also contain small amounts of calcium, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

Grandma's Apple Dumplings contain wheat and dairy in the form of pie crust and cream. They may also contain traces of nuts if used in the recipe.

Summary

Grandma's Apple Dumplings are a delicious dessert that provides a good source of carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins. They are a satisfying treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Grandma's Apple Dumplings are a classic dessert that is sure to delight your taste buds. With a flaky pastry, tender apples, and a sweet maple syrup glaze, these dumplings are a comforting treat that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream for a truly indulgent dessert experience.

How did I get this recipe?

It feels like just yesterday when I stumbled upon this recipe for Grandma's Apple Dumplings. It was a chilly autumn day, the leaves were turning vibrant shades of red and orange, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of apples. I had just finished picking a bushel of fresh apples from the orchard down the road, and I was eager to put them to good use in the kitchen.

As I sorted through the apples, I remembered a conversation I had with my dear friend Mrs. Jenkins a few weeks prior. She had mentioned a delightful apple dumpling recipe that was passed down through her family for generations. Intrigued, I decided to pay her a visit and ask if she would be willing to share the recipe with me.

Mrs. Jenkins welcomed me into her cozy kitchen with a warm smile and a pot of freshly brewed tea. As we chatted about our love for cooking and baking, I finally mustered up the courage to ask her about the apple dumpling recipe. To my delight, she eagerly agreed to share it with me.

With pen and paper in hand, I carefully wrote down each ingredient and step of the recipe as Mrs. Jenkins recited it to me. She explained that the key to making the perfect apple dumplings was to use the freshest apples and to handle the dough with care. I listened intently, eager to learn all of her tips and tricks.

After bidding Mrs. Jenkins farewell and thanking her for her generosity, I hurried back to my own kitchen to try my hand at making Grandma's Apple Dumplings. With the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through the air, I rolled out the dough and carefully wrapped each apple in a sweet, buttery crust.

As the dumplings baked in the oven, I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction and joy. The memories of Mrs. Jenkins and her kind-heartedness filled my heart as I waited for the dumplings to cool. When they were finally ready, I took a bite and was instantly transported back to my childhood, when my own grandmother would bake apple treats for me on crisp fall days.

From that moment on, Grandma's Apple Dumplings became a staple in my own kitchen. I would make them for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I took pride in sharing this cherished recipe with others, just as Mrs. Jenkins had shared it with me.

Over the years, I continued to refine the recipe, adding my own personal touch with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. Each batch of apple dumplings brought back fond memories of Mrs. Jenkins and our shared love of cooking.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover Grandma's Apple Dumplings, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships and experiences that have shaped my love for cooking. The recipe may have come from Mrs. Jenkins, but the memories and joy it has brought me are truly my own.

So the next time you find yourself with a basket of fresh apples and a longing for something sweet, I encourage you to try your hand at making Grandma's Apple Dumplings. Let the warmth of the oven and the scent of cinnamon fill your kitchen, and remember that the best recipes are those shared with love and passed down through generations. Happy baking!