Apple Dumplings with a Twist

Ingredients

In Eastern European cuisine, the traditional American Apple Dumplings are adapted to incorporate flavors commonly found in the region. The addition of cinnamon and lemon zest infuses the dumplings with a distinct Eastern European twist. Furthermore, these dumplings are often served with honey or sour cream, which adds a touch of richness and tanginess to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Apple Dumpling, so you can check it out.

• 4 medium-sized apples, peeled and cored 4 medium-sized apples, peeled and cored
• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water 1/2 cup (120ml) cold water
• Honey, for drizzling (optional) Honey, for drizzling (optional)
• Sour cream, for serving (optional) Sour cream, for serving (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 16g (Saturated Fat: 10g)
• Carbohydrates: 42g (Sugar: 16g)
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   In a separate small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon zest.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the cold water to the flour mixture, stirring until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
5. 5.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
6. 6.
   Cut the dough into 4 equal squares.
7. 7.
   Place an apple in the center of each square. Fill the apple cavity with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
8. 8.
   Fold the corners of the dough over the apple, pinching the edges to seal.
9. 9.
   Transfer the dumplings to a baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender.
10. 10.
    Remove from the oven and let the dumplings cool slightly.
11. 11.
    Serve warm, drizzled with honey and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Apples — Choose firm and slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith or Braeburn for the best texture and flavor.
• Cinnamon — Use ground cinnamon for convenience, but feel free to substitute with freshly grated cinnamon for a more intense flavor.
• Lemon zest — Make sure to use organic lemons and wash them thoroughly before zesting to avoid any unwanted chemicals.

Tips & Tricks

• For a variation, add a handful of raisins or chopped nuts to the cinnamon-sugar mixture before filling the apples.
• Serve the dumplings warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• If you prefer a sweeter taste, sprinkle some powdered sugar over the dumplings before serving.
• To save time, you can use store-bought puff pastry instead of making the dough from scratch.
• Leftover dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Serving advice

These Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Dumplings are best served warm. Drizzle them with honey and add a dollop of sour cream for a delightful contrast of flavors. Serve them as a comforting dessert after a hearty Eastern European meal or as a sweet treat for afternoon tea.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Dumplings on a serving platter, allowing the golden pastry to showcase the tender apples inside. Drizzle honey over the dumplings and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an inviting presentation. Serve with a side of sour cream for guests to add as desired.