CARAMEL DUMPLINGS

1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons butter, divided use
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
1 1/2 cups boiling water
1 1/2 cups flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 cup sugar
2/3 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Whipped cream or ice cream (optional, for serving)

To make the caramel sauce, combine 2 tablespoons butter, brown sugar and boiling water and let come to a boil.

Sift dry ingredients and cut in remaining 1/4 cup butter; add milk and vanilla. Mix quickly. Drop by teaspoons into boiling caramel sauce.

Cover and simmer slowly for 20 minutes. Don't lift lid during cooking.

Remove dumplings from sauce with a slotted spoon. Serve hot with sauce. Top with whipped cream or ice cream, if desired.

Makes 4 to 6 servings
Source: The Halwy Lutheran Aid Cookbook