If you’ve ever wanted to bring a burst of fruity sweetness wrapped in a pillowy, creamy embrace, you’re going to adore this Plum Dumplings with Ricotta and Breadcrumbs Recipe. These delightful dumplings combine the lusciousness of fresh plums with the soft, rich texture of ricotta dough, all perfectly complemented by a crunchy, buttery breadcrumb coating. It’s a harmonious mix of flavors and textures that feels both comforting and luxurious, making it a standout dessert or even a unique main dish on a chilly evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Plum Dumplings with Ricotta and Breadcrumbs Recipe is that it calls for simple, straightforward ingredients, each playing an essential role in creating the perfect balance of texture and taste. From the creamy ricotta that gives richness to the dough, to the sprinkling of spices that adds a subtle warmth, every component matters.
- Ricotta (500 g): Provides a creamy, soft base for the dough creating tender dumplings.
- Semolina flour (300 g): Adds structure and a slightly grainy texture to the dough for firmness and bite.
- Egg yolks (4): Bind all dough ingredients together while enhancing richness.
- Melted butter (90 g): Enriches dough with moisture and flavor, making it delectably soft.
- Baking powder (¼ tsp): Gives a subtle lift to keep dumplings light.
- Salt (½ tsp): Enhances all flavors and balances sweetness.
- Vanilla paste (½ tsp): Adds a lovely aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with plums.
- Plums (16, pitted): The undeniable star of the dish, bringing juicy fruitiness and tart balance.
- Sugar (80 g): Sweetens the fruit center for surprises in every bite.
- Semolina flour for dusting (60 g): Prevents sticking and helps shape the dumplings beautifully.
- Butter for frying (100 g): Creates a rich, golden coating on the outer breadcrumbs.
- Breadcrumbs (200 g): Add a crunchy finish and contrasting texture.
- Sugar (2 tbsp): Sweetens the breadcrumb topping perfectly.
- BAM Spices Sweet Love (1 tsp, optional): A warm spice blend that enhances the overall cozy flavor profile.
How to Make Plum Dumplings with Ricotta and Breadcrumbs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by mixing ricotta, semolina flour, egg yolks, melted butter, baking powder, salt, and vanilla paste into a smooth, cohesive dough. This dough is the backbone—soft yet sturdy enough to hold the juicy plums inside. Once kneaded well, chill it in the fridge for at least an hour or overnight. This resting step helps the dough firm up and develop better texture.
Step 2: Form the Dumplings
Now, halve your plums almost all the way through and get ready to shape your dumplings. Scoop about two tablespoons of dough, roll lightly in semolina flour, then flatten into a patty. Nestle one plum at the center and add a little sugar cube or teaspoon inside for sweet magic. Carefully wrap the dough around the plum, sealing it into a smooth round dumpling. Roll again in semolina, then lay them gently on a floured baking sheet. Keep going until all your plums and dough are transformed into these delightful parcels.
Step 3: Cook the Dumplings
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then lower the heat to let the water simmer gently. Add your dumplings carefully and cook for about 15 to 18 minutes, or if frozen, cook for up to 23 minutes. The dumplings will puff slightly, and the dough becomes tender and delightful. Use a skimmer to transfer them carefully onto a serving plate once done.
Step 4: Crispy Breadcrumb Coating
Time to add that irresistible crunch! Heat butter in a pan over medium-high heat, then toss in breadcrumbs, sugar, and the optional BAM Spices Sweet Love. Stir frequently and let this golden mixture toast evenly, filling your kitchen with warm, buttery aroma. Add your cooked dumplings to the pan and turn them gently to coat with this crispy, sweet breadcrumb topping. This step brings that perfect contrast of textures everyone loves.
How to Serve Plum Dumplings with Ricotta and Breadcrumbs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream makes a simple yet elegant garnish. Fresh mint leaves add a refreshing pop of color and aroma. If you’re feeling indulgent, a drizzle of warm honey or a dusting of cinnamon perfectly complements the sweet and tart notes inside those dumplings.
Side Dishes
This Plum Dumplings with Ricotta and Breadcrumbs Recipe shines best alongside fruit compotes, especially apricot or berry varieties. The fruity sauce accentuates the juicy plum centers while adding an extra tangy layer that balances the rich ricotta dough. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a lightly sweetened yogurt for a cozy, complete dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a rustic vibe, serve your dumplings in a large wooden bowl dusted with extra breadcrumbs or powdered sugar. Alternatively, plate them individually on delicate dessert dishes paired with a spoonful of compote artistically swirled on the side. You can even drizzle a caramel sauce over the top for a decadent touch that elevates this homey dish to something special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of the Plum Dumplings with Ricotta and Breadcrumbs Recipe, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Storing dumplings carefully ensures they retain their flavorful softness without drying out, though they’re best enjoyed fresh for the full experience.
Freezing
Planning ahead? Freeze the uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet spaced apart, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container once solid. Frozen dumplings keep well for up to one month and can be cooked straight from the freezer with a slightly longer simmering time, making this recipe wonderfully flexible for busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, gently pan-fry leftover cooked dumplings in butter and breadcrumbs again to revive the crispy coating. Alternatively, warm them in a low oven until heated through, then add fresh compote just before serving. Avoid microwaving as it tends to soften the delightful crust you’ve worked so hard to create.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Absolutely! This recipe works beautifully with other stone fruits like apricots, peaches, or cherries. Just ensure the fruit is juicy but firm enough to hold its shape during cooking.
Is ricotta the only cheese that works here?
Ricotta’s mild creaminess is key for the dough’s texture, but you can experiment with similar soft cheeses like farmer’s cheese or quark. Just check the moisture content to keep dough consistency right.
What’s the best way to pit plums for these dumplings?
The easiest method is to cut the plum nearly in half around the pit and gently twist to separate. Remove the pit with a small spoon or your fingers while keeping the halves intact for filling.
Can I make the dough without semolina flour?
While semolina gives a unique texture and structure, you can substitute with all-purpose flour. Expect a slightly different texture—less grainy but still delicious.
What can I serve with the dumplings for a full meal?
Pair these dumplings with a light salad or a creamy soup for a balanced meal that contrasts the sweet simplicity of the dish. They also make a wonderful dessert after a hearty main course.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about savoring homemade Plum Dumplings with Ricotta and Breadcrumbs Recipe, especially when shared with loved ones. The blend of creamy ricotta, juicy fruit, and crunchy breadcrumbs creates a comforting yet elegant treat that’s hard not to fall in love with. Don’t hesitate to roll up your sleeves and try this charming recipe — it might just become your go-to dessert or a nostalgic favorite on cooler evenings.
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Plum Dumplings with Ricotta and Breadcrumbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 dumplings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Eastern European
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these homemade Plum Dumplings with Ricotta, a traditional Eastern European dessert featuring tender ricotta semolina dough wrapped around juicy plums, simmered to perfection, and finished in a fragrant buttery breadcrumb coating. Served best with a sweet fruit compote, these dumplings blend creamy, sweet, and fruity flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Dumpling Dough
- 500 g (18 ounces) ricotta
- 300 g (10.5 ounces) semolina flour
- 4 egg yolks
- 90 g (8 tbsp) melted butter
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp vanilla paste (BAM)
Dumplings Filling and Coating
- 16 plums, pitted
- 80 g (1/3 cup) sugar
- 60 g (1/2 cup) semolina flour, for dusting
- 100 g (¼ cup + 3 tbsp) butter
- 200 g (3 cups) breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp BAM Spices Sweet Love (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine ricotta, semolina flour, egg yolks, melted butter, baking powder, salt, and vanilla paste. Knead the mixture into a smooth, pliable dough. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight to allow the dough to firm up.
- Form the dumplings: Slice each plum almost through to create a hinge. Using an ice cream scoop or spoon, take about two tablespoons of chilled dough, dust your hands with semolina flour, and roll the dough into an even patty. Place a plum in the center and add a cube or teaspoon of sugar inside the plum. Carefully encase the plum with the dough, shaping it into a smooth round dumpling. Lightly roll each dumpling in semolina flour and place them on a lightly floured baking sheet. Repeat until all dough and plums are used.
- Cook the dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, then carefully add dumplings to the water. Simmer dumplings gently for 15 to 18 minutes if fresh, or 20 to 23 minutes if frozen, until they float and are cooked through. Use a skimmer to transfer the dumplings to a serving plate.
- Prepare the breadcrumb topping: In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add breadcrumbs, sugar, and optional BAM Spices Sweet Love. Toast and stir frequently until the mixture is golden brown and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Finish the dumplings: Add the cooked dumplings to the skillet and pan-fry for an additional 2 minutes, tossing gently to coat them evenly with the buttery breadcrumb mixture. Serve hot with your favorite fruit compote, such as homemade apricot compote, for a perfect finishing touch.
Notes
- Chilling the dough improves handling and texture of the dumplings.
- Ensure plums are pitted and halved carefully to hold sugar inside for a sweet burst.
- Handle dumplings gently when adding to water to prevent them from breaking.
- Bread crumb topping adds a lovely crunchy contrast; do not skip this step.
- This dish is best served fresh and warm with fruit compote.
- You can freeze uncooked dumplings; cook from frozen with additional cooking time as indicated.
