Ingredients
1-1/2 cups water1-1/2 cups sugar1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg3 tablespoons butter3 to 6 drops red food coloring, optionalDUMPLINGS:2 cups all-purpose flour2 teaspoons baking powder1 teaspoon salt2/3 cup shortening1/3 cup 2% milk6 small tart apples, peeled and cored4 teaspoons sugar, divided1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg6 teaspoons butter, softened3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
Preparation
For syrup, in a small saucepan, bring the water, sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg to a boil, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat; add butter and food coloring if desired. Stir until butter is melted; set aside.
For dumplings, in a small bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt; cut in shortening until crumbly. Gradually add milk, tossing with a fork until dough forms a ball.
On a lightly floured surface, roll dough into an 18x12-in. rectangle. Cut into six squares. Place an apple in the center of each square.
Combine 2 teaspoons sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg; sprinkle over apples. Dot with butter. Bring up corners of pastry to center; pinch edges to seal.
Place in a greased 11x7-in. baking dish. Pour syrup over dumplings; sprinkle with remaining sugar.
Bake at 375° for 35 minutes or until pastry is golden brown and apples are tender. Serve warm with cream.
