Apple Dumplings in Caramel Sauce

2/3 cup flour
2 teaspoon white sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
pinch of salt
1/4 cup cold butter
1/4 cup whole milk
2 medium apples, peeled & corded
4 teaspoon packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
4 teaspoons butter at room temperature

SAUCE:
2 teaspoons flour
1/2 cup water
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
3 tablespoons butter
dash of salt

1. In a small bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt; cut in cold butter until crumbly. Gradually add milk, tossing with a fork until dough forms a ball; divide dough in half. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour or until easy to handle.

2. On a well-floured surface, roll each portion of dough into an 8 inch square. Cut apples in half horizontally; place an apple bottom on each square. Place brown sugar and cinnamon in the core of each bottom dot each with 2 teaspoons butter. Replace apple tops.

3. Gently bring up corners of pastry to center; pinch edges to seal. Place in greased 8 inch baking dish. Bake, uncovered, at 350* for 15 minutes.

4. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, combine flour and water until smooth. Add the sugars, butter and salt. Bring to a boil; cook and stir until smooth and blended. Pour over dumplings. Bake 35-40 minutes longer or until apples are tender and pastry is gold brown. Serve warm.

YIELD: 2 servings.