Step 1

Preheat oven to 425°F.

Step 2

Combine the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and shortening in a large bowl. Use a pastry cutter to cut the shortening into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step can also be done in a food processor. Add the milk and stir with a fork just until the dough clumps together. Cover with plastic wrap and set aside in the fridge.

Step 3

Peel and core the apples using a paring knife or apple peeler.

Step 4

Roll out the pastry dough on a lightly floured surface. Cut into large squares and place an apple in the center of each square. Divide the butter, sugar, and cinnamon evenly between each of the apples.

Step 5

Wrap the pastry up around each apple, pinching the edges together to seal. Transfer to a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 6

Make the syrup by combining the water, sugar, butter, and cinnamon in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook until the butter is melted and the sugar is completely dissolved. Pour the hot syrup over the apple dumplings in the baking dish.

Step 7

Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and the apples pierce easily with a sharp knife. Cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.