Apple Dumplings with Apple Jack Sauce

When was the last time you smelled apple dumplings cooking in your kitchen? Don't you think it's time to make some? Some things just bring back memories of another time and place, and darn it all apple dumplings might just be one of them.

 

They're so darn easy to make, I'm not sure why I don't whip them up more often. The big guy wasn't home for dinner again last night and while I could have had a salad and called it dinner, I really wanted to "smell" something coming from the kitchen. This particular version is stuffed with dried cranberries, chopped hazelnuts and dribbled with maple syrup before they're gift wrapped in pastry and cooked in a boozy apple jack, cinnamon flavored syrup. Download Apple Dumplings with Apple Jack Sauce

Honestly, these little "dumples" are delightful. The flavor of the maple syrup really comes through even though there's a mere teaspoon in each and the cranberry and hazelnuts provide a bit of toothsome texture and crunch. As for the sauce ... darn, I just lurve Applejack. A little bit of advice if you're listening that is - don't be a idiot and make only three like I did. If you're going to make 'em, ya' might as well make a pan full. I sure as heck should have. Other than tasting like a lot MORE, I figure if the dumplings are crowded together in a pan they'll have less of a tendency to fall apart, never mind they'll make a fabulous little breakfast item along with a cup of coffee. That's what I plan to do with the one that's left, because I know for sure when the big guy eats the one that's in his lunch today, the lonely little leftover will have absolutely no chance hanging out in the refrigerator.

Speaking of what's hanging out in the fridge - get a eyeful of these little beauties. A perfect rainbow of color, these fresh beautiful eggs were gifted to me yesterday by a friend. Her friend Jo's got a chicken coup filled with prolific little cluckers and you can count on the fact that I'll be putting my name on the list for a regular supply. I almost swooned this morning when I cooked two up for the big guy's breakfast and you should have seen the look on his face! You've got yourself a regular customer, Jo! Thanks Donna for the gift and the referral - now let's see. How will I return the favor ...mmm souffle, brulee, cake, pie, or chocolate?

Comments

[Nanan]

I have some lovely apples here - might have to make some... I see you are now a convert to the cult of the yard egg eaters!!!! I will NEVER go back to mass produced grocery store eggs - I just can't. I have 2 sources for yard eggs here - just to make sure I will never run out! You just can't beat the flavor of a yard egg.

[June]

Those eggs are "nirvana" honestly. I've never tasted anything so good! The blue one was so absolutely beautiful I didn't want to crack it, but it and the big red one beside it were the big guy's breaky this morning.