Apple Dumplings with Rich Cinnamon Sauce

This dessert stands on its own, but a scoop of vanilla ice cream certainly wouldn't hurt.

• Calories: 481 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 egg white
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• 1 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 5 tablespoons softened butter
• 1 (15 ounce) container 9-inch pie crusts
• 0.25 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
• 4 apples (any variety but Red Delicious) peeled, halved, and cored, a thin slive

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

For each serving, spoon a portion of sauce on a dessert plate. Set apple dumpling over warm sauce; serve immediately.

Step 2

Mix 3 tablespoons of butter, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, and all nuts in a small bowl. Spoon a portion of mixture into each hollowed-out apple core.

Step 3

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C) and adjust the rack to the lower-middle position.

Step 4

For boxed pie crusts, unroll one dough sheet onto a floured work surface. Pulling on sides of dough to straighten rounded edges, roll it into an approximate 12-inch square, then cut dough into four 6-inch squares; brush the perimeter of each square with egg white. Set apple halves on each square. Bring up 4 corners of dough around apple and pinch edges to seal. Place on a large (at least 18- by 12-inch) parchment-covered baking dish. Brush dumpling tops and sides with egg white; sprinkle with sugar. Repeat process with remaining apples and dough.

Step 5

Bake dumplings until pastry sets and starts to turn golden brown, about 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes longer.

Step 6

While apples bake, bring 1 cup water, remaining 2 teaspoons butter, remaining 1/2 cup brown sugar, and remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon to boil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Dissolve cornstarch in 2 teaspoons water; whisk into hot syrup for a smooth sauce. Cover and keep warm.