Apple Cider-Caramel Dumplings

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Make the apple cider-caramel sauce: In a medium pot, heat the cream and butter over medium until the butter is melted. Add the brown sugar and bring to a simmer over medium-low. Once simmering, cook, stirring constantly for 2 minutes. Add the apple cider and stir well to combine. (The sugar will seize, but just keep stirring and it will dissolve back into the liquid.) Add the cinnamon sticks and salt, and bring to a simmer over medium-low heat.

2. Step 2

   While the mixture comes to a simmer, make the dumplings: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt and nutmeg. Make a well in the center and add the milk, melted butter, egg and vanilla. Whisk to combine, then switch to a spatula or wooden spoon as the mixture comes together.

3. Step 3

   Reduce the heat to a low simmer. Add a single layer of tablespoon-size scoops of batter to the pot (about 5 to 6 dumplings), cover the pot and set a timer for 8 minutes. (If desired, you can test one dumpling by cutting it in half to make sure it’s cooked through.)

4. Step 4

   After each batch, use a slotted spoon to drain and transfer to a medium bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or foil to help keep the dumplings warm. Repeat with the remaining batter, poaching the dumplings in batches until all of the batter is used. (The poaching liquid will thicken slightly and decrease as you cook the dumplings, even with the pot covered.)

5. Step 5

   Once all the dumplings are fully cooked and removed from the pot, add the apples to the pot and simmer on low heat, uncovered, for 20 to 30 minutes, depending on how toothsome or soft you like your apples.

6. Step 6

   While the apples cook, make the whipped cream: In a medium bowl, whisk the cream, confectioners’ sugar and vanilla until it thickens enough to coat a spoon, but is still fluid. Chill the whipped cream until ready to use.

7. Step 7

   Divide the warm dumplings among serving dishes. Spoon the sauce, apples and cream sauce over each portion and serve immediately.