Old-fashioned apple dumplings are made with peeled and cored-out apples that get encased in pastry or biscuit crust and are baked until golden and tender. For hundreds of years, apple dumplings have remained a classic comfort food both in the States and across the pond in England. Descriptions of this dish appear as far back as the early 1700s, and apple dumplings were famously Thomas Edison’s favorite food. This dessert has remained popular in the United States for hundreds of years, from New England to the Deep South. Apple dumplings are particularly common in Pennsylvania and in Amish communities, where they are a staple treat, and are often cooked in a sweet, buttery sauce, and later topped with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
The concept of delicate dough plus apples can also be found in the Czech Republic, where the dumplings are also sometimes made with whole plums or apricots. In Germany and Ukraine, you might find apple dumplings that are made with dough that is simmered instead of baked. A dumpling is still a dumpling whether it’s baked or boiled, and a dumpling is universally loved across cultures and countries.
Rosh Hashanah is a time to create dishes that symbolically set the tone for the year ahead. We eat apples and honey with the intention of adding sweetness in the days to come, and when those classic symbolic ingredients get wrapped up in pastry they offer a reassuring package of joy as an added blessing.
With just a few simple pantry staples, you can make this stunning, comforting dessert for your holiday table. These apple dumplings work best with small, tart firm varieties like Granny Smith or Winesap. The flavor of the apple deepens as it becomes fork-tender in its buttery blanket of dough, and it’s sweetened by a honey sauce that can be whisked together in minutes. Best of all, this dessert serves a crowd of eight, can be made up to two days ahead and can be easily reheated when you’re ready to serve.
The Nosher celebrates the traditions and recipes that have brought Jews together for centuries. Donate today to keep The Nosher’s stories and recipes accessible to all.
Can I use Gluten Free Flour?
We have not tested this recipe with gluten-free flour, but please let us know if you have success using it.
These look delicious! I intend to make them today and report back!
Follow up: This is such a delicious dessert!!! So much flavour packed into a little mini pie! I’ll be making this again!