French Baked Apple Dumplings. Recipe

French Baked Apple Dumplings Recipe

History:
French cuisine is renowned for its decadent desserts, and French Baked Apple Dumplings are no exception. This delightful treat originated in the rural regions of France, where apples were abundant and often used as a main ingredient in various dishes. The combination of tender apples, flaky pastry, and sweet syrup makes for a truly indulgent dessert that has stood the test of time.

Fun Facts:
- French Baked Apple Dumplings are also known as "Pommes au Four" in French.
- This dessert is commonly enjoyed during the fall and winter months when apples are in season.
- In France, different varieties of apples such as Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, or Braeburn are used to create unique flavor profiles.
- Traditionally, these dumplings are served warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Ingredients:

For the apple filling:
- 6 medium-sized apples (use a variety suitable for baking, such as Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 cup raisins (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the pastry:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water

For the syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For serving:
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

2. Peel and core the apples, leaving them whole. Place them in a large bowl and set aside.

3. In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Mix well.

4. Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the apples, making sure to coat them thoroughly. Toss in the raisins and chopped walnuts if desired. Set aside.

5. To make the pastry, in a food processor, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

6. Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the dough comes together and forms a ball.

7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry into a large rectangle, about 1/8 inch thick. Cut the pastry into 6 squares, large enough to wrap each apple.

8. Take one apple at a time and place it in the center of a pastry square. Gently fold the corners of the pastry over the apple, sealing it tightly. Repeat with the remaining apples.

9. Place the wrapped apples in the prepared baking dish, seam-side down. Any leftover pastry scraps can be used to create decorative shapes to place on top of the dumplings.

10. In a small saucepan, combine the water, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved.

11. Pour the syrup over the dumplings, ensuring that each one is coated well. Reserve a small amount of syrup for serving.

12. Bake the apple dumplings in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender.

13. Remove the baked apple dumplings from the oven. Allow them to cool slightly before serving.

14. To serve, place each apple dumpling in a shallow bowl and drizzle with the reserved syrup. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
- Apple Strudel: A classic Austrian dessert that features thinly sliced apples, raisins, and warm spices wrapped in layers of delicate phyllo pastry.
- Tarte Tatin: A famous French upside-down caramelized apple tart that is rich, buttery, and deliciously sweet.
- Apple Crumble: A British favorite that combines tender baked apples with a crunchy oat and cinnamon topping, often served with a scoop of vanilla custard or ice cream.

Enjoy your homemade French Baked Apple Dumplings!

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