Apple Dumplings With Miso Caramel Sauce

Apple dumplings are a delightful dessert that brings together the comforting flavor of baked apples and the satisfying warmth of pastry. The combination of these sweet treats with a touch of miso caramel sauce introduces an unexpected twist that elevates the traditional recipe to new heights. This fusion not only tantalizes the taste buds but also opens the door to a world of culinary creativity that you won’t want to miss.

The marriage of apples and pastry is a classic that has been enjoyed for generations. Each bite reveals tender, spiced apple, typically seasoned with cinnamon and sugar, encased in a flaky pastry. Adding miso caramel sauce brings a savory element that beautifully offsets the sweetness of the dumplings. Miso, a fermented soybean paste, contributes depth and umami to the dessert, transforming it from a simple dish into a complex culinary experience that invites curiosity.

Apple Dumplings with Miso Caramel Sauce

Servings: 8

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Bake Time: 35–40 minutes

Ingredients

For the Apple Dumplings

• 2 green apples (Granny Smith preferred), peeled and cut into 8 slices each

• 2 (8 oz) cans crescent roll dough

• 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter

• 3/4 cup brown sugar

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of kosher salt

• 1 cup lemon-lime soda (like 7Up or Sprite)

For the Miso Caramel Sauce

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 2 tbsp water

• 1/2 cup heavy cream, warmed

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 tbsp white or yellow miso paste

• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dumplings

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

3. Unroll crescent dough and separate into triangles.

4. Place one apple slice at the wide end of each triangle and roll up tightly. Place dumplings in the prepared dish.

Step 2: Make the Brown Sugar Mixture

1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

2. Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Cook until just combined and pourable (don’t boil).

3. Pour the mixture over the dumplings.

Step 3: Add the Soda & Bake

1. Pour the lemon-lime soda around the edges (not directly on top of the dumplings).

2. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until golden and bubbling. The liquid will reduce into a syrupy glaze.

Step 4: Make the Miso Caramel Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Swirl (don’t stir) until sugar dissolves and turns a deep amber color, about 5–7 minutes.

2. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the warm heavy cream (it will bubble).

3. Stir in butter, miso paste, and a pinch of salt until smooth.

4. Cool slightly — sauce will thicken as it cools.

Step 5: Serve

• Drizzle generously with miso caramel sauce.

• Optional: Plate warm dumplings with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

• Optional: Sprinkle with a few flaky sea salt crystals for an extra hit of sweet-savory contrast.

Tips

• Don’t skip the soda! It creates the signature bubbling syrup around the dumplings.

• Leftover miso caramel is fantastic over pancakes, popcorn, or coffee!