Apple Dumplings with Rich Cinnamon Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 cup dark brown sugar, divided
• 5 tablespoons butter, divided
• 0.25 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
• 4 apples (any variety but Red Delicious) peeled, halved, and cored, a thin sliver cut off bottoms so apples sit flat
• 1 (15 ounce) container 9-inch pie crusts
• 1 egg white, beaten
• 2 tablespoons white sugar
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Line a large baking dish with parchment.
2. Mix 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 3 tablespoons butter, nuts, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon together in a medium bowl. Divide mixture between apple centers.
3. Roll one dough sheet on a floured surface into a 12-inch square; cut into four 6-inch squares. Brush edges with egg white. Set 6 apple halves, cut side up, on each square. Wrap dough around apples; pinch edges to seal. Transfer to the prepared baking dish. Repeat with remaining dough and apples. Brush dough with remaining egg white, sprinkle with white sugar.
4. Bake dumplings in the preheated oven for 10 minutes; reduce heat to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Continue to bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes longer.
5. Meanwhile, bring 1 cup water, remaining 1/2 cup brown sugar, remaining 2 tablespoons butter, and remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon to a boil in a small saucepan over medium heat until sugar dissolves. Dissolve cornstarch in 2 teaspoons water; whisk into sugar-butter mixture until smooth and syrupy. Cover and keep warm.
6. Spoon a portion of sauce on a plate, set apple dumpling on top; serve immediately.