Heat oven to 350. Core and peel 8 small apples (about 4 oz. each). Toss apples in bowl with 1/2 c. brown sugar and 1 tsp. cinnamon, coating well. Sprinkle hollow centers of apples with sugar mixture.
On lightly floured surface, roll out each biscuit from 1 package (17.3 oz.) Pillsbury Grands biscuits into 7" circle, using rolling pin.
Place apple in center of each circle. Gather up dough to cover fruit. Pinch edges together to seal completely, and shape dough into apple stem and leaf, using toothpick to secure.
Place dumplings 2" apart on greased baking pan, and bake 30 minutes. Remove toothpicks and let cool 5 minutes before serving. Top with sweetened whipped cream, if desired.
Serves 8.