Apple Dumplings Recipe
Ingredients
2 Granny Smith apples
1 lemon
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 canned buttermilk biscuits
4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions:
Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Step 2:
Peel, core and slice the apples vertically into 8 slices each.
Squeeze the lemon into a bowl of water and add the apple slices to keep from turning brown.
Step 3:
In a medium saucepan, mix 1 cup water, 3/4 cup of the sugar, the butter and vanilla.
Bring the sugar mixture to a boil over medium heat.
Step 4:
Separate each biscuit into 2 layers.
Wrap a biscuit layer around a slice of apple, stretching the biscuit slightly to overlap, and seal on the bottom.
Place the wrapped slices, sealed-side down, in a 9- by 12- by 2-inch casserole dish.
Pour the hot sugar mixture over the apple slices.
Mix the remaining 1/4 cup sugar with the cinnamon and sprinkle the mixture over the tops of the wrapped apples.
Bake until golden brown, 35 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use other types of apples besides Granny Smith?
While Granny Smith apples are commonly used due to their tartness and firm texture, you can experiment with other apple varieties.
Just keep in mind that the sweetness and texture of the dumplings might vary depending on the apple type you choose.
Why do I need to squeeze lemon juice into water for the apples?
Lemon juice prevents the apple slices from turning brown due to oxidation.
It helps maintain the vibrant color of the apples, enhancing the overall appearance of the dumplings.
Can I substitute canned biscuits with homemade dough?
Yes, you can use homemade biscuit dough if you prefer.
Just make sure to roll out the dough to the appropriate thickness before wrapping it around the apple slices.
How do I prevent the wrapped biscuits from coming apart during baking?
Ensure that the biscuit layers are slightly stretched and overlap well when wrapping them around the apple slices.
Press the seams gently to seal them at the bottom before placing the dumplings in the baking dish.
Can I serve these dumplings with a sauce or ice cream?
Absolutely! These apple dumplings are delicious on their own, but you can also enhance their flavor by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a delightful dessert experience.
How do I prevent the apple slices from turning brown?
Squeezing lemon juice into a bowl of water and then adding the apple slices helps prevent browning due to oxidation.
The acid in the lemon juice slows down the browning process.
Can I substitute margarine for butter?
Using butter is recommended for its flavor and texture in this recipe.
While margarine might work, it could affect the taste and consistency of the final dish.
What can I serve with apple dumplings?
Apple dumplings are often enjoyed on their own, but you can enhance the experience by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
Can I prepare the dumplings ahead of time?
It’s best to bake the dumplings right before serving to maintain their freshness and texture.
However, you can prepare the individual components (apple slices, sugar mixture, etc.) ahead of time and assemble them just before baking to save time.