Apple dumplings hold a special place in my heart, as they evoke memories of family gatherings and the comforting aroma of baked apples and cinnamon filling the house. This recipe, adapted from the beloved Pioneer Woman, is a simple yet indulgent treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. The combination of tender apples, flaky crescent dough, and a sweet, buttery sauce makes these dumplings irresistible. Whether served as a dessert or a cozy afternoon snack, they never fail to impress.
Ingredients
1 large apple (Fuji is used here, but any tart apple will do)
1 can Pillsbury Crescent dough
1/2 cup butter
2/3 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
3/4 cup (6 oz) 7-Up or equivalent (about half a can)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake.
Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the dumplings from sticking.
2. Prepare the Apples
Peel the large apple and cut it into 8-10 wedges. For this recipe, a tart apple like Fuji is preferred for its balance of sweetness and acidity, but feel free to use your favorite variety.
Once the apple is cut into wedges, pat them dry with a paper towel. This step helps the crescent dough adhere better to the apples.
3. Wrap the Apples in Crescent Dough
Open the can of Pillsbury Crescent dough and separate it into triangles.
Starting at the wide end of the dough triangle, roll each apple wedge in the dough. Ensure that you pinch the edges to seal the dough around the apple completely.
Place the wrapped apple wedges in the prepared baking dish. Make sure they are spaced evenly to allow for even baking.
4. Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture
In a small saucepan, melt the 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat.
Once the butter has melted, stir in the 2/3 cup of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Continue to heat the mixture, whisking constantly until it thickens and combines well.
Once thickened, remove the mixture from heat and stir in the 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This step adds a depth of flavor to the sauce.
5. Assemble the Dish
Pour the thickened cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the apple dumplings in the baking dish. Ensure that each dumpling is well-coated with the mixture for maximum flavor.
Next, pour the 3/4 cup of 7-Up (or equivalent soda) around the edges of the baking dish. The soda helps create a bubbly, caramelized sauce that complements the dumplings perfectly.
6. Bake the Apple Dumplings
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the dumplings are golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
The crescent dough should puff up and turn a beautiful golden color, while the apples inside become tender and flavorful.
7. Serve the Dumplings
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. The dumplings are best enjoyed warm, with the sauce still gooey and delicious.
Serve the apple dumplings as they are, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Variations and Substitutions
Different Apples: While tart apples like Fuji are recommended, you can use any type of apple you prefer. Granny Smith apples are also a great choice for their tartness.
Flavored Soda: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a different type of soda such as ginger ale or a lemon-lime soda for a unique twist on the flavor.
Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the dumplings before baking for added crunch and flavor.
Conclusion
Pioneer Woman’s Apple Dumplings are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that brings the comforting flavors of fall into your home. The combination of tender apples wrapped in flaky crescent dough, bathed in a sweet, buttery sauce, and baked to perfection, makes this dish a standout. The recipe is straightforward and requires only a handful of ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the nostalgic flavors it evokes. Whether you’re enjoying these dumplings with family during the holidays or making a batch for a cozy night in, they are sure to bring warmth and joy to any occasion.
So next time you’re looking for a comforting dessert that’s both impressive and easy to make, try these Apple Dumplings. Their delightful flavor and texture will make them a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the smiles and satisfaction they bring to your table!