Homemade Apple Dumplings with Puff Pastry

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like that I can make this dessert with just a few simple ingredients, yet the result looks and tastes like something special. The puff pastry gives me that perfect flaky crust without the extra work of homemade dough. I also enjoy how the apples soften during baking, turning into a tender filling that contrasts beautifully with the crisp outside. This is the kind of recipe I reach for when I want a warm, comforting dessert without much fuss.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

4 granny smith apples peeled and cored but left whole and not sliced
1 package of thawed puff pastry sheets only 1 sheet is needed
½ cup heavy cream
1 egg beaten
4 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
flour for dusting

Directions

1. I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. I lightly dust my work surface with flour and roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth it.
3. I cut the pastry into 4 equal squares.
4. I peel and core the apples, keeping them whole.
5. In a small bowl, I mix the sugar and cinnamon together.
6. I place one apple in the center of each puff pastry square, then sprinkle some of the cinnamon-sugar mixture into the hollow center of each apple.
7. I fold the corners of the pastry up around the apple and pinch them together to seal.
8. I brush the outside of the pastry with the beaten egg to give it a golden color when baked.
9. I place the dumplings on the prepared baking sheet.
10. I pour the heavy cream evenly over and around the dumplings.
11. I sprinkle the tops with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture.
12. I bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender.
13. I let them cool slightly before serving, often with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings, one apple dumpling per person. I usually need about 20 minutes to prepare and 35–40 minutes to bake, so the total time is just under an hour.

Variations

Sometimes I add a handful of raisins, walnuts, or pecans inside the apple before wrapping it in pastry. I also like to drizzle caramel sauce over the finished dumplings for extra richness. If I want a spiced version, I add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the cinnamon-sugar mix.

Storage/Reheating

I keep leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When I want to reheat them, I warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes to keep the pastry crisp. Microwaving works too, but I find it makes the pastry softer.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, I can use Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji apples, but I prefer Granny Smith because they stay firm and balance the sweetness.

Do I need to peel the apples?

I usually peel them for a softer texture, but I can leave the skin on if I want more bite and color.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I can assemble the dumplings, refrigerate them, and bake them right before serving.

What can I serve with apple dumplings?

I like serving them with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, or whipped cream.

Can I freeze apple dumplings?

Yes, I can freeze them unbaked and then bake straight from frozen, adding about 10 extra minutes to the baking time.

Do I have to use heavy cream?

I like the richness that heavy cream gives, but I can use half-and-half or even milk if that’s what I have.

How do I keep the pastry from opening while baking?

I make sure to pinch the seams tightly and brush with egg wash to help seal them.

Can I make mini versions of these?

Yes, I can use smaller apples or cut large apples in half, then wrap them in smaller pastry squares.

Is this dessert very sweet?

I find it nicely balanced the tart apples keep it from being overly sweet.

Can I add extra spices?

Yes, I sometimes add nutmeg, ginger, or cloves for a warmer spice profile.

Conclusion

These Homemade Apple Dumplings with puff pastry are one of my favorite fall desserts. I love the way the flaky pastry surrounds the tender, cinnamon-spiced apples, making each bite feel cozy and satisfying. Whether I serve them fresh from the oven with ice cream or enjoy them the next day, they never fail to bring comfort and a little sweetness to the table.

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