Artemisia californica

A traditional dessert made with apples and pastry

Apple dumpling is a traditional dessert that consists of an apple that is cored, sometimes peeled, and wrapped in pastry dough before being baked. It is a popular dish in various cuisines and is often associated with comfort food.

Preparation

The preparation of apple dumplings involves several steps. First, the apple is cored and sometimes peeled. The core is removed to create a cavity that can be filled with a mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and sometimes butter or raisins. The apple is then placed on a piece of pastry dough, which is folded around the apple to enclose it completely. The edges of the dough are sealed, and the dumpling is placed in a baking dish.

Baking

Once prepared, the apple dumplings are baked in an oven. During baking, the pastry becomes golden brown and flaky, while the apple inside becomes tender. A syrup or sauce, often made from sugar, butter, and cinnamon, may be poured over the dumplings before or during baking to enhance the flavor and moisture.

Serving

Apple dumplings are typically served warm, often with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They can also be served with a drizzle of the baking syrup or a caramel sauce.

Variations

There are many variations of apple dumplings, depending on regional preferences and available ingredients. Some recipes include additional spices such as nutmeg or cloves, while others may incorporate nuts or dried fruits in the filling. The type of pastry used can also vary, with some recipes calling for a puff pastry or a shortcrust pastry.

Cultural Significance

Apple dumplings are a beloved dessert in many cultures, particularly in the United States and parts of Europe. They are often associated with autumn and harvest festivals, as apples are typically harvested in the fall. In some regions, apple dumplings are a traditional dish for Thanksgiving or other holiday celebrations.

Related pages

• Apple pie
• Pastry
• Dessert
• Baking

Gallery

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  A classic apple dumpling

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  Illustration of apple dumplings

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  Preparing apple dumplings

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  Apple dumpling ready to bake

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  Apple dumplings in a pan

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  Apple dumplings in sauce

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  Baked apple dumplings

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  Apple dumpling with sauce