Cut in shortening until particles are about the size of small peas.
Sprinkle milk over mixture and press together lightly, working dough only enough to hold together. Roll dough as for pastry and cut into 6 squares and plane an apple on each.
Coat cavity of apples with sugar and cinnamon.
Pat dough around apple to cover it completely.
Fasten edges securely o top of the apple.
Place dumplings 1 inch apart in a greased baking pan.
Prepare sauce as described below and pour over dumplings.
for sauce
Combine brown sugar, water, and spices.
Cook for 5 minutes, remove from heat and add butter.
Bake at 375 degrees F. for 35 to 40 minutes. Baste occasionally during baking.