Combine in saucepan:

2 c. sugar
2 c. water
1/4 c. butter
1/4 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. nutmeg

Heat until butter is melted. Set aside. Pare and core 6 apples. Cut into eights.

Sift together into mixing bowl:

2 c. flour
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. salt

Cut in 3/4 cup shortening and then add 1/2 cup milk. Stir until dough follows fork around bowl. Roll out to 1/4-inch thickness on lightly floured surface. Cut into 5-inch squares.

Arrange 4 pieces of apple on each square. Sprinkle generously with sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg. Dot with butter. Fold corners of dough to center. Pinch edges together.

Place in greased baking dish 1-inch apart. Pour syrup over the dumplings. Bake 30-40 minutes in 375 degree oven. Serve hot with cream.

Serves 6-8.