If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite, you are in for a treat with this Plum Dumplings with Ricotta Recipe. These tender dumplings marry the rich creaminess of ricotta with the juicy, slightly tart plums wrapped inside a soft, fluffy dough. Every bite bursts with fruit and hints of vanilla, cinnamon, and buttery goodness—making it a perfect way to celebrate the simple joys of homemade treats. This recipe effortlessly blends Eastern European comfort food vibes with an approachable, scrumptious finish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be humble, but each one plays a crucial role in making the dumplings soft, flavorful, and irresistibly luscious. From the creamy ricotta that adds moisture and tenderness to the buttery cinnamon-sugar coating that gives each dumpling its golden crisp—every item here is essential for success.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing the perfect balance between structure and softness.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese: Adds creamy richness and keeps the dumplings tender.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together for a cohesive dough texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a subtle warm flavor that complements the fruit beautifully.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the dough slightly to enhance overall flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and elevates the other flavors.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Enriches the dough for a tender crumb.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Moistens the dough to bring it all together just right.
- 8 ripe plums, pitted: The star of the show—juicy, tart, and sweet all at once.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Used to coat the dumplings, creating a lovely textural contrast.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Melted for toasting the breadcrumbs and adding flavor.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Mixed with cinnamon for dusting the cooked dumplings.
- Ground cinnamon (to taste): Adds warming spice, a perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Plum Dumplings with Ricotta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the flour, ricotta, egg, vanilla extract, sugar, salt, melted butter, and milk in a large mixing bowl. Gently knead the mixture until you have a smooth, elastic dough that feels soft but not sticky. This dough is the key to achieving those pillowy dumplings that melt in your mouth.
Step 2: Prepare the Plums
While the dough rests for a few minutes, wash and pit the plums carefully. The plums should be ripe but still firm enough to hold their shape inside the dough without becoming mushy during cooking.
Step 3: Assemble the Dumplings
Divide the dough into eight equal portions. Flatten each piece into a disc large enough to wrap around a plum half. Place one plum half in the center of each disc and gently seal the dough around the plum, ensuring no gaps remain. This careful wrapping ensures the luscious plum juices stay inside while cooking.
Step 4: Cook the Dumplings
Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Carefully drop each dumpling into the water and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the dumplings float to the surface. Floating means they are perfectly cooked and ready to be coated.
Step 5: Toast the Breadcrumbs
While the dumplings are cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet and toast the breadcrumbs until golden and fragrant. This step adds a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft dumplings.
Step 6: Coat the Dumplings
Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked dumplings from the water and roll them in the warm toasted breadcrumbs. Then sprinkle with a cinnamon and sugar mixture for a sweet, spicy finish that makes these dumplings irresistible.
How to Serve Plum Dumplings with Ricotta Recipe
Garnishes
If you want to take your presentation to a whole new level, consider topping the dumplings with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of honey, or even a dollop of whipped cream. These little extras add visual appeal and an extra touch of indulgence to each serving.
Side Dishes
These dumplings work beautifully as a stand-alone dessert, but they can also be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a simple green salad for a lighter, balanced meal. Their fruity sweetness complements fresh, crisp flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these dumplings in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or shredded coconut on top. For a festive occasion, add fresh mint leaves and edible flowers. Serving them family-style on a wooden board invites everyone to dig in with joy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. For best texture, ensure they are cooled completely before sealing to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
If you’d like to make these ahead in bulk, you can flash freeze the uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet until solid and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Cook them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the boiling time.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the dumplings in a pan with a little butter or steam them to preserve their softness. Avoid microwaving as it can dry them out. After reheating, roll them again in the toasted breadcrumbs to refresh their crispy coating.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Absolutely! This Plum Dumplings with Ricotta Recipe works wonderfully with other stone fruits like apricots, peaches, or cherries. Just make sure they are firm enough to hold their shape during cooking.
Is ricotta essential or can I substitute it?
Ricotta provides both moisture and a mild creaminess that’s hard to replace. Cottage cheese can be a substitute if blended smooth, but cream cheese or mascarpone will alter texture and flavor slightly.
How do I prevent the dumplings from falling apart?
The key is to seal the dough tightly around each plum and avoid overcrowding the pot while boiling. Also, make sure your dough is well-kneaded so it holds together during cooking.
Can I bake these dumplings instead of boiling?
Boiling is traditional and best for achieving that delicate, pillow-like texture. Baking might change the consistency and won’t give you the same soft, tender result.
What’s the best type of plum to use?
Look for ripe but firm plums such as Italian or European varieties. They should be juicy without being overly soft to withstand wrapping and cooking without bursting apart.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making Plum Dumplings with Ricotta Recipe that brings a sense of warmth, tradition, and satisfaction to your kitchen. I hope you dive in and enjoy the process as much as the delicious results. It’s one of those recipes that invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and share smiles around the table.
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Plum Dumplings with Ricotta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these tender Plum Dumplings filled with juicy ripe plums and creamy ricotta cheese, perfectly coated with buttery cinnamon breadcrumbs. This classic dessert combines soft dough with a sweet plum surprise inside, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dumpling Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons milk
Filling and Coating
- 8 ripe plums, pitted
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- Ground cinnamon (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, sugar, salt, melted butter, and milk. Mix thoroughly until a soft, pliable dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, lightly flour your hands and knead gently.
- Prepare the Plums: Pit each of the ripe plums carefully, keeping them whole. You may leave the skin on for added texture and color in the dumplings.
- Assemble the Dumplings: Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion on a lightly floured surface into a circle large enough to wrap around a plum. Place one plum in the center of each circle and gently wrap the dough around it, sealing the edges to form a dumpling.
- Cook the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Reduce to a gentle simmer, then carefully drop the dumplings into the simmering water. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the dumplings float to the surface and are cooked through. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside to drain.
- Prepare the Breadcrumb Coating: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the breadcrumbs and toast them, stirring frequently, until golden brown and fragrant. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar and ground cinnamon to taste.
- Coat the Dumplings: Roll each cooked dumpling in the warm cinnamon-sugar breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
- Serve: Serve the plum dumplings warm for the best flavor and texture. Optionally, dust with extra powdered sugar or accompany with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- The dough should be soft but not sticky; adjust flour or milk as needed.
- Use ripe but firm plums to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.
- Breadcrumbs can be substituted with crushed nuts for a different texture.
- These dumplings are best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
- For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: European
