Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/4-inch thick wedges. Set aside.
Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Assemble the Dumplings
Add the apple slices and walnuts to the dough mixture. Toss to coat the apples and walnuts evenly.
Transfer to the Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with caramel sauce.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the dumplings are golden brown and the apples are tender.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a sprinkle of chopped walnuts on top.
What to Serve The Best Apple Dumplings With
While The Best Apple Dumplings is a complete meal on its own, it pairs beautifully with a variety of complementary dishes and drinks.
Fresh Berries: A tart berry salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, sweet dumplings.
Creamy Ice Cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream takes this dessert to the next level.
Hot Tea: For those who prefer a warm drink, a cup of spiced tea enhances the experience.
Top Tips for Perfecting The Best Apple Dumplings
Apple Selection: For the best flavor, use a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples for a balance of tartness and sweetness.
Caramel Glaze: For a thicker glaze, simmer the caramel sauce and milk together before drizzling it over the dumplings.
Baking Dish: Use a 9x13-inch baking dish for even distribution and baking.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storage: Allow the dumplings to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen dumplings at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. For a crispy exterior, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Final Thoughts
The Best Apple Dumplings is a testament to the beauty of culinary creativity—offering the rich, bold flavors of apple pie in a fresh, wholesome vessel. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or enjoying it solo, this dish is bound to become a favorite.
So, why not try making this innovative recipe today? With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be on your way to a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.