Caramel Apple Dumplings

SAUCE:

1 1/2 c water

1 c packed brown sugar

2 tbsp butter or margarine

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp salt

DUMPLINGS:

1 1/4 c all-purpose flour

1/4 c sugar

1 1/2 tsp baking powder

1/2 c milk

2 tbsp butter or margarine, melted

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 c diced peeled tart apples

Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, optional

In a large saucepan, combine sauce ingredients; bring to boil, stirring constantly. For the dumplings, combine flour, sugar and baking powder in a large bowl. Add milk, butter and vanilla; stir just until moistened. Gently fold in apples. Drop by heaping teaspoonfuls into the boiling sauce. Cover and cook over low heat until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, about 8-10 minutes. Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.

Yield: 6 servings.