Everyone has their own favorite apple dessert but all of our Alexander County Apple Dessert Contest Judges can say that it was a touch pick this year for the best Apple Dessert. The Contest showcase not only our citizen’s culinary skills but also the traditions and heritage associated with apples.

First place for the Apple Dessert Contest was awarded to Mrs. Ashley Lineberry who submitted a savory apple dumpling recipe. Runner up for the Apple Dessert Contest was awarded to Mrs. Kathy Bowman for her beautiful “big mama” apple pie recipe.

First Place Winner Recipe

Mrs. Ashely Lineberry's Apple Dumpling

Ingredients

• 2 whole Granny Smith apples
• 2 8-ounce cans of crescent rolls
• 2 sticks of butter
• 1 1/2 c. sugar
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• Cinnamon, to taste
• 1 12-ounce can Mountain Dew soda

Directions

1. Peel and core apples.
2. Cut each apple into 8 slices each.
3. Roll each apple slice in a crescent roll.
4. Place in a 9 x 13 buttered pan.
5. Melt butter, then add sugar and barely stir. Add vanilla, stir, and pour entire mixture over apples. Pour Mountain Dew around the edges of the pan. Sprinkle with cinnamon and bake at 350°F for 40 minutes.
6. Serve with ice cream, and spoon some of the sweet sauces from the pan over the top.

Runner Up Recipe

Mrs. Kathy Bowman’s “Big Mom’s” Apple Pie

Ingredients

• 3 cups choice apple peeled, cored, and grated (the apples that Mrs. Bowman used were Gala)
• 1 Tbsp. Lemon Juice
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/8 tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 egg beaten
• 4 Tbsp butter, melted
• ¼ cup raisins, chopped
• ¼ cup pecan, chopped
• 1 9inc deep dish unbaked pie crust (homemade or store bought)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F
2. Mix lemon juice with grated apples
3. Combine sugar, salt, and cinnamon
4. Blend beaten egg with melted butter
5. Add raisins and pecan to butter and egg mixture
6. Combine all ingredients and spoon into pie crust
7. Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes or until done.

Lastly, the apple decorating contest was awarded to Ms. Lilly Lineberry who submitted the sweetest decorated apple.

Special thanks to our sponsors and donors at Carolina Farm Credit, Tractor Supply, and True Value to which this contest would not be possible without their help and assistance. The contestant recipes and photos can be viewed on the Alexander County website and the Facebook page at AlexanderExtension.

Although you may have missed out on it this year, mark down your calendar to submit your best apple dessert and be the Alexander County Apple Dessert Winner.