Irresistible Apple Dumplings: A Classic Fall Dessert Recipe Straight from Grandma’s Kitchen

Classic Homemade Apple Dumplings with Cinnamon Sugar Sauce

There’s something truly magical about apple dumplings fresh from the oven, with their flaky pastry exterior giving way to tender, spiced apples within. This beloved American dessert brings together the perfect harmony of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and buttery pastry for a treat that’s absolutely irresistible during apple season.

Why You’ll Love These Apple Dumplings

• Perfect fall comfort dessert that fills your home with an incredible aroma
• Make-ahead friendly – prepare in advance and bake just before serving
• Simple ingredients that transform into something extraordinary
• Individual servings that make for beautiful presentation

Apple Dumpling Ingredients

• 2 packages (14.1 ounces each) refrigerated pie crust, thawed
• 6 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and cored
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for sprinkling)

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Apple corer
• Small saucepan
• Pastry brush
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife

How to Make Perfect Apple Dumplings

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Peel and core each apple, leaving them whole. Squeeze a little lemon juice over them to prevent browning.
3. Unroll the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Cut each crust into quarters to make 8 pieces total (you’ll need 6).
4. Place one apple in the center of each pastry piece. Fill the apple cavity with 1 tablespoon brown sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
5. Bring the corners of the pastry up around each apple, pinching the edges to seal. The pastry should completely encase the apple.
6. Place the wrapped apples in the prepared baking dish, spacing them evenly.
7. In a saucepan, combine the remaining brown sugar, butter, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly for 5 minutes.
8. Pour the hot syrup mixture over and around the dumplings.
9. Brush each dumpling with a little water and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
10. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a knife.
11. Allow to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. Spoon the sauce from the pan over each dumpling when serving.

Tips for Apple Dumpling Success

• Choose the right apples – Granny Smith provides the perfect tartness, but Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Jonagold work beautifully too
• Don’t skip the cinnamon-sugar sprinkle on top for that beautiful golden finish
• Be sure to seal the pastry well to prevent the filling from leaking during baking
• For extra decadence, add a tablespoon of bourbon or apple brandy to the sauce

Serving Your Apple Dumplings

These warm apple dumplings are absolutely divine served with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Freshly whipped cream
• A drizzle of caramel sauce
• A splash of heavy cream poured over the top

Storing and Reheating

Store leftover apple dumplings covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 30-45 seconds or in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Variations on Classic Apple Dumplings

Caramel Apple Dumplings

Add 1/4 cup of caramel sauce to your syrup mixture for an extra rich flavor profile.

Maple Pecan Apple Dumplings

Replace half the brown sugar with maple syrup and add 1/2 cup chopped pecans to the sauce for a nutty twist.

Mini Apple Dumplings

Use smaller apples and cut pastry accordingly to make bite-sized versions perfect for parties.

Why Apple Dumplings Are an American Classic

Apple dumplings have been an American favorite since colonial times, when settlers brought their European pastry traditions and adapted them to the abundant apple harvests of the New World. They’ve stood the test of time because of their perfect balance of flavors and textures, and their ability to showcase seasonal fruit at its best.

Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or making apple dumplings for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a treasured favorite that you’ll return to season after season.