Caramel Apple Dumplings

Photo: Jo Ann

Ingredients

Ingredients:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

2 cups teaspoons plus ¼ sugar, divided

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup shortening

2 eggs

1/4 cup water

2 teaspoons white vinegar

7 mediums tart apples, peeled and cored

7 tablespoons butter

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Ingredients for Caramel Sauce:

1 jar (12-1/4 ounces) caramel ice cream topping

1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar

1 cup water

1/4 cup butter, cubed

Preparation

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine the flour, 2 teaspoon sugar and salt; cut in shortening until crumbly. In a small bowl, combine 1 egg, water and vinegar, gradually add to crumb mixture, tossing with a fork until dough forms a ball. Divide into seven portions.

On a lightly floured surface, roll each portion into a 7-inch square. Place an apple on each pastry square; place 1 tablespoon butter in the center of each. Combine cinnamon and remaining sugar; sprinkle over apples.

Bring up corners of pastry to center; pinch edges to seal. Beat remaining egg; brush over pastry. Place in a greased 13-inch x 9- inch baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, combine the sauce ingredients. Bring to a boil; cook and stir until smooth and blended. Pour over apples. Bake 35-40 minutes longer or until apples are tender and pastry is golden brown, basting occasionally with sauce. Serve warm.