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Delicious Pennsylvania Dutch apple dumplings with flaky crust and cinnamon sauce.

Pennsylvania Dutch Apple Dumplings

These cozy and easy apple dumplings feature tender apples wrapped in dough and topped with a sweet brown sugar syrup, perfect for sharing and simple to prepare.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Apple Dumplings
  • 8 pieces firm apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Jonagold, or Pink Lady) Choose firm and slightly tart apples for the best texture.
  • 2 cups crescent roll dough or homemade pastry dough Crescent dough is quicker; homemade provides a flakier texture.
For the Brown Sugar Syrup
  • 1 cup brown sugar Provides deep caramel flavor.
  • 1/2 cup butter For richness and smooth texture.
  • 1 cup water or apple juice Use apple juice for extra flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon Adds warmth and depth to the syrup.
  • a pinch salt Helps balance the sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Stir in at the end for fragrance.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Peel the apples and leave them whole or halved.
  3. Roll out the dough and wrap each apple, ensuring no gaps.
Make the Syrup
  1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Stir in the brown sugar and water (or apple juice).
  3. Add cinnamon and salt, heating until dissolved and glossy. Do not boil.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Baking
  1. Place the wrapped apples in a baking dish.
  2. Pour the syrup over and around the dumplings.
  3. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the apples are tender.
  4. Let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Spoon extra sauce over before reheating for added gooeyness.