Individual Apple Dumplings
Delightful individual apple dumplings feature tender baked apples wrapped in flaky pastry, infused with cinnamon and sugar, perfect for cozy desserts or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Roll pastry to 1/8-inch thickness and cut into 6 large squares.
- Place an peeled and cored apple in the center of each pastry square.
- Combine sugar, cinnamon, and salt to make the filling mixture.
- Place an equal amount of sugar mixture in the center of each apple.
- Dot each apple with butter or margarine.
- Moisten the edges of the pastry squares with water.
- Bring the corners of each pastry square together at the top of the apple.
- Seal the edges securely and prick the pastry with a fork or make gashes with a sharp knife.
- Place the wrapped apples in a shallow baking pan.
- Bake in a moderate oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 40 minutes or until apples are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier pastry, ensure your butter or margarine is cold before cutting it into the flour. If you don't have double pie crust, you can use store-bought puff pastry or phyllo dough as a substitute. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract to the sugar mixture. You can also use different types of apples for varied sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these individual apple dumplings warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert. They pair beautifully with Eileen's Custard Rice Pudding for a comforting meal. A sprinkle of caramel or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can also enhance the flavors. Consider serving with a side of spiced cider for a cozy touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover apple dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, ensuring the pastry remains crisp. For a quick reheating option, you can use a microwave, but the pastry may lose its texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Individual Apple Dumplings contains roughly 81 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these apple dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dumplings in advance and store them unbaked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove them from the fridge and let them come to room temperature before baking. This helps ensure even cooking and a flaky crust.
What type of apples are best for this recipe?
Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are ideal for this recipe as they hold their shape during baking and provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness. Avoid overly soft apples, as they may become mushy and lose their texture inside the dumpling.
Can I freeze the apple dumplings?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked apple dumplings. Assemble them, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).