Are you craving that comforting, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of Cracker Barrel's famous apple dumplings? Then look no further! This recipe brings that beloved taste right to your kitchen, creating a delicious and surprisingly easy homemade dessert. Forget complicated baking – this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a delightful blend of sweet and comforting flavors. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade apple dumplings, warm from the oven and bursting with cinnamon-spiced apples.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Items
This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients, making it a breeze to prepare. Let's gather everything before we begin:
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For the Dumplings:
- 1 (14.1 ounce) can refrigerated biscuits
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or a mix of tart and sweet apples work best), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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For the Sauce:
- 1 cup apple juice
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: A sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth
Step-by-Step Instructions: Easy as Pie (Almost!)
Let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create these irresistible apple dumplings:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
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Prepare the apples: In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Ensure the apples are evenly coated.
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Assemble the dumplings: Separate the biscuits. Place a spoonful of the apple mixture in the center of each biscuit. Fold the biscuit over the filling to form a half-moon shape or a simple packet.
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Arrange and bake: Arrange the dumplings in the prepared baking dish. Drizzle with melted butter and vanilla extract.
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Make the sauce: In a small saucepan, combine apple juice, water, sugar, and butter. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Stir in vanilla extract.
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Pour and bake: Pour the sauce over the dumplings in the baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the dumplings are golden brown and the apples are tender.
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Serve warm: Serve the apple dumplings warm, drizzled with extra sauce. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Dumpling Perfection
- For extra flavor, use a mix of apple varieties.
- Don't overfill the biscuits; it makes them difficult to seal and can cause them to burst during baking.
- If your apples are particularly juicy, you might want to add a tablespoon or two of flour to help thicken the sauce.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes a fantastic topping!
Variations: Get Creative in the Kitchen
- Spiced it up: Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice to the apple filling for a unique flavor twist.
- Cranberry apple delight: Incorporate dried cranberries into the apple filling for a tangy-sweet surprise.
- Streusel topping: For a crispier topping, sprinkle a streusel topping (made from flour, brown sugar, butter, and oats) over the dumplings before baking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Sugar: 25-30g
- Protein: 5-7g
This recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a warm, comforting dessert reminiscent of a Cracker Barrel favorite. The simple steps and adaptable nature make it perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. Enjoy the delicious aroma and taste of these homemade apple dumplings!