Autumn Apple Dumplings

Nothing beats the aroma of baking apples on a crisp fall day, except maybe getting to eat one! With apples coming into season and backyard gardeners and farmers harvesting by the bushel, the healthy snack becomes a delicious treat!

September 17th is the perfect date for National Apple Dumpling Day. The yummy pastry really couldn’t be easier to make, and chances are you’ve got everything you need for it right in your pantry. They’re said to have originated in the northeastern United States and are popular among the Amish, who have them for breakfast or as dessert after dinner. If you’re serving them as dessert, don’t forget the vanilla ice cream!

My favorite apples to use for pretty much any apple baking — whether it be tarts, dumplings or pies — is the Granny Smith. It holds up well in the baking process and the tart taste manages to hold its own against pastry and sugary fillings and syrups.

You can also play with add-ins if you’re in the mood. Raisins (which are more traditional) or other dried fruits like cranberries or even chopped apricots can be added in with the apples before they’re wrapped up in the pastry dough, or leave them out altogether if all you want is the apple.

Below are several recipes and methods to check out:

~ Traditional Pennsylvania Dutch Apple Dumplings
~ How to Make Apple Dumplings, Step by Step
~ Quick Apple Dumplings
~ Sprite Apple Dumplings
~ Diabetic Recipe for Apple Dumplings
~ Vegan Apple Dumplings
~ Slow Cooker Apple Dumplings

[image: flickr]