Ingredients
SAUCE:1-1/2 cups sugar1-1/2 cups water1/4 cup red cinnamon candies1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/4 teaspoon ground nutmegDUMPLINGS:2 cups all-purpose flour2 teaspoons baking powder1 teaspoon salt2/3 cup shortening2/3 cup cold whole milk6 small baking apples, peeled and cored3 tablespoons butter1 large egg white, beaten1 tablespoon sugarHalf-and-half cream, optional
Preparation
Combine all sauce ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring to a full rolling boil, stirring occasionally. Set aside.
For dumplings, combine flour, baking powder and salt in a large bowl. Using a fork or pastry blender, cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle in milk, mixing lightly with a fork until a soft dough forms. Shape into a ball.
On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to an 18x12-in. rectangle. Cut into six squares. Place an apple in the center of each square; dot with butter. Bring corners of pastry up to top of apple; press edges to seal.
Place in an ungreased 13x9-in. baking dish. Pour sauce into pan around dumplings. Brush dumplings with egg white and sprinkle with sugar.
Bake at 375° for 50 minutes or until light golden brown and apples are tender. Serve warm with cream if desired.
