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Apple dumplings are a beloved dessert that often evokes nostalgia and comfort. However, this recipe takes a delightful twist on tradition by incorporating fresh herbs, creating a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of tender apples, fragrant herbs, and a buttery dough elevates these dumplings, making them a standout dish for any occasion.

Perfectly Untraditional Herb Apple Dumplings

Delightful dumplings filled with apple and herbs, topped with a glaze.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8

Ingredients
  

  • 2.0 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1.0 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.25 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 0.75 cup buttermilk
  • 2.0 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped
  • 1.0 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1.0 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1.0 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1.0 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 1.0 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 0.25 cup honey
  • 1.0 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1.0 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1.0 teaspoon fresh mint, finely chopped
  • 1.0 teaspoon fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Add the cold cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually pour in the buttermilk, mixing until just combined. Do not overwork the dough; it should be slightly sticky.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the chopped apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, thyme, and rosemary. Mix well until the apples are evenly coated.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently a few times until it forms a cohesive ball. Roll it out into a rectangle about 0.5 inches thick. Cut the dough into squares, approximately 4 inches by 4 inches. Place a tablespoon of the apple filling in the center of each square. Fold the corners over the filling and pinch to seal tightly. You can also shape them into bundles or knots if desired.
  • Place the dumplings on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is a little space between each. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • While the dumplings are baking, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, mint, and parsley until smooth.
  • Once the dumplings are done baking, remove them from the oven and brush the herb glaze over the tops while they are still warm. This will add a beautiful shine and enhance the flavor.
  • Allow the dumplings to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and a sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy warm as a delightful dessert or a creative addition to your meal!

Notes

Serve warm for the best flavor.
Keyword apple, dessert, dumplings, herbs