If you’ve ever wanted to dive into a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, then this Plum Dumplings with Ricotta Recipe is exactly what you need to try. The delicate yet rich ricotta-infused dough wraps around juicy, sweet plums, creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that’s both comforting and elegant. Each bite reveals a tender, creamy filling with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon, making it an unforgettable treat that’s surprisingly simple to make at home. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just indulging yourself, this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are thoughtfully chosen for their classic simplicity and how each one plays a crucial role in making this dish truly shine. From the creamy ricotta to the juicy plums, it’s all about balancing flavor, texture, and a little bit of magic in the kitchen.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of our tender dough, providing structure and softness.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese: Adds a creamy richness that makes the dumplings incredibly moist and flavorful.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the dough together for perfect elasticity and texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the dough with a subtle sweetness and aroma that compliments the plums.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the dough just enough to enhance the fruity filling.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor depth.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Contributes to a tender crumb and adds rich buttery notes.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Helps bring the dough together for smooth, manageable consistency.
- 8 ripe plums, pitted: These juicy gems are the star of the show, bursting with natural sweetness and slight tartness.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Toasted for a lovely crunch that coats the dumplings after boiling.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Used to brown the breadcrumbs, adding nutty flavor and texture.
- 1/4 cup sugar: Sprinkled with cinnamon to create a sweet, spicy finishing touch.
- Ground cinnamon (to taste): Provides warmth and depth when paired with sugar on the breadcrumb topping.
How to Make Plum Dumplings with Ricotta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the flour, sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, melted butter, and milk until smooth. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, sprinkle in a little more flour, but aim for a pliable, slightly sticky dough that will be easy to roll out later.
Step 2: Shape the Dumplings
Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and flatten each one slightly. Take one portion at a time and place a pitted plum in the center. Carefully wrap the dough around the fruit, sealing the edges well to encase the plum completely. This step is key to keeping the juicy plum inside while it cooks. Repeat with all plums and set the dumplings aside on a lightly floured surface.
Step 3: Boil the Dumplings
Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Add the dumplings carefully, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Cook them for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until they float to the surface, which signals they’re done. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and transfer onto a plate to drain slightly.
Step 4: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping
While the dumplings are boiling, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and stir constantly until they turn golden brown and develop a toasty aroma. Stir in the sugar and ground cinnamon, mixing until everything is well combined. This breadcrumb coating will add a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft dumplings.
Step 5: Coat the Dumplings
Gently roll each cooked dumpling in the warm cinnamon-sugar breadcrumbs until fully coated. Serve immediately for the best texture, or keep warm until you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish.
How to Serve Plum Dumplings with Ricotta Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey really elevates the presentation and adds a touch of sweetness that complements the plums perfectly. Fresh mint leaves or a dollop of whipped cream can also add a fresh, creamy contrast that turns this humble dessert into a showstopper.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cool contrast or a simple cup of strong coffee or black tea that balances the sweetness perfectly. For a more indulgent touch, serve alongside warm custard or a spoonful of thick Greek yogurt to add creaminess and tang.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these dumplings in rustic wooden bowls or on delicate china plates sprinkled with extra cinnamon sugar. You can also cut them in half to showcase the juicy plum inside, garnishing with edible flowers or a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant finish. Presentation is all about showcasing the dumpling’s rustic charm with a dash of sophistication.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover dumplings can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. While they are best enjoyed fresh, chilling them overnight allows flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to reheat gently to keep them tender and avoid drying out the dough.
Freezing
If you want to save dumplings for longer, freeze them before cooking. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, boil them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat, you can gently steam or microwave the dumplings, but boiling them again for a few minutes yields the best results to restore their soft, pillowy texture. After reheating, don’t forget to toss them again in the buttery breadcrumb topping for that irresistible crunch.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Absolutely! You can experiment with apricots, peaches, or even firm cherries. The key is to use fruits that hold their shape well and have a balance of sweetness and tartness to complement the ricotta dough.
Is ricotta cheese essential in the dough?
Ricotta adds moisture and a gentle richness that transforms the dumplings, but if you don’t have any, you can substitute with cream cheese or even yogurt for a slightly different but still delicious result.
How do I prevent the dumplings from falling apart during cooking?
Make sure to seal the edges of the dough tightly around the plums. Gently roll and pinch the seams closed, and handle them carefully when placing into boiling water to keep the dumplings intact.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Just bring it back to room temperature before shaping the dumplings for easier handling.
What is the best way to serve these dumplings for a crowd?
Serve them warm on a large platter sprinkled generously with cinnamon-sugar breadcrumbs alongside small bowls of toppings like whipped cream, honey, or nuts so guests can customize their plates.
Final Thoughts
Making this Plum Dumplings with Ricotta Recipe at home is such a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with satisfaction. It’s a dish that brings simple, wholesome ingredients together in an extraordinary way, perfect for any occasion or just because you deserve something delicious. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and let this recipe become a part of your treasured kitchen favorites.
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Plum Dumplings with Ricotta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: European
Description
Delight in these tender Plum Dumplings filled with creamy ricotta cheese, gently enveloped in a soft flour dough and bursting with ripe plum sweetness. Finished with a buttery breadcrumb coating dusted with cinnamon and sugar, this comforting dessert is perfect for a cozy gathering or a special treat.
Ingredients
Dough and Filling
- 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
Fruit
- 8 ripe plums, pitted
Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- Ground cinnamon (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. Add the ricotta cheese, egg, vanilla extract, melted butter, and milk. Mix well until a soft, pliable dough forms. Knead gently on a floured surface if needed to bring the dough together smoothly.
- Prepare the Plums: Pit the ripe plums carefully and set aside. Each plum will be wrapped whole within the dumpling dough.
- Assemble the Dumplings: Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Flatten each piece into a round disc and place one plum in the center. Wrap the dough around the plum completely, sealing any seams to prevent leakage during cooking.
- Cook the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Gently drop the dumplings into the boiling water. Cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the dumplings float to the surface and the dough is cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain.
- Prepare Breadcrumb Topping: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the breadcrumbs and toast until golden brown and fragrant, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the sugar and ground cinnamon to taste.
- Coat the Dumplings: Roll each cooked dumpling in the buttery breadcrumb mixture to coat all sides thoroughly. This adds a crunchy, sweet-spiced finish to the tender dumplings.
- Serve: Arrange the plum dumplings on a serving plate and enjoy warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure plums are ripe but firm to hold shape inside the dumplings.
- Use fresh ricotta cheese for the smoothest dough consistency.
- The breadcrumb topping can be adjusted for sweetness and spice to preference.
- Dumplings can be served with a dollop of cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat gently before serving.
