Schnitz un Knepp (Apples and Buttons)

1 qt. Dried apples
3 lbs. Smoked ham
2 T brown sugar
2 c flour
4 t baking powder
1 t salt
¼ t pepper
1 egg, well beaten
3 T melted butter
½ c milk

Cover the dried apples with water; soak overnight. In the morning, cover ham with water and simmer for 2 hours. Add the apples and water in which they have been soaked and continue to simmer about 1 hour. Add the brown sugar. To prepare the Dumplings, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper. Quickly stir in all at one time just until blended a mixture of the beaten egg, butter, and milk. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto simmering ham and apples. Tightly cover the kettle and cook for 20 min. Serve piping hot on a large platter. 8 to 10 servings.