Apple Dumpling Days

Apple Dumplings—those tasty apples wrapped in pastry and covered in sweet cinnamon syrup — are returning to Historic Ephrata Cloister to help raise funds for the Back to the Cloister Fund. Proceeds from this annual event allow the Cloister to compete with private collectors and other institutions on the open market for original items made at the Cloister. Over the years, sales of apple dumplings have been used to purchase one-of-a-kind furniture, rare music manuscripts, and the original 1739 deed to the historic site—more than 100 items since the creation of the fund more than 40 years ago.  Last year the Back to the Cloister Fund purchased a Jacob Gorgas tall case clock that was made circa 1790-1795 in the Gorgas shop in Ephrata. The clock is on display in the Visitor Center at the Cloister.

The apple dumplings, made by Achenbach’s Bakery in Leola, will be available for purchase at the drive-through tent beside the Museum Store at the Historic Ephrata Cloister on Friday, October 9, and Saturday, October 10 until sold out. There is no guarantee supplies will last by 1:00pm on Saturday, so plan to make your purchases early. Free delivery is offered for orders of 20 or more within 10 miles of the Ephrata Cloister. Delivery orders must be placed in advance. Contact ephratacloister@gmail.com to make arrangements by Thursday. October 8th. There are no online sales, but questions or special requests can be made by email to ephratacloister@gmail.com.

No admission to the museum is required to purchase apple dumplings. The sale will be held rain or shine.

Shady Nook Barn, The Museum Store at Ephrata Cloister featuring locally made crafts, art, books, and many one-of-a-kind items, will be open both days and will feature a selection of specialty goods.