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There’s something truly heartwarming about the thought of home-cooked treats wafting through the air, especially when they’re as comforting as Plum Dumplings with Ricotta. Picture this: tender dumplings filled with juicy, sweet plums and a hint of vanilla, just waiting to be enjoyed. I discovered this delightful recipe on a rainy afternoon when I craved a cozy dessert that could be made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.

What makes these dumplings special is not just their melt-in-your-mouth texture but their versatility. You can easily swap out plums for your favorite seasonal fruit—think peaches or apricots—making this a go-to recipe any time of year. Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, meaning you can whip up a batch ahead of time and indulge in a homemade treat whenever those sweet cravings hit. Whether for a family gathering or a casual weeknight dessert, these dumplings are sure to impress—no fancy skills required! Let’s dive into how you can bring this comforting dish to your table.

Why are Plum Dumplings with Ricotta a must-try?

Comforting Delight: The soft, pillowy texture of these dumplings pairs perfectly with sweet, juicy plums, creating a treat that feels like a warm hug.

Versatile Substitutions: Feel free to switch out plums with seasonal fruits like apricots or peaches, making this recipe adaptable for any time of year.

Freezer-Friendly: Prepare a batch ahead of time and store them in your freezer for quick, delightful desserts on busy days.

Quick & Easy: With straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can master this delicious dish, impressing family and friends alike.

Serve with Flair: Enhance the experience by serving these dumplings with a drizzle of homemade fruit compote or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Plum Dumplings Ingredients

• A delightful mixture of flavors awaits!

For the Dough

Ricotta – Provides creaminess and moisture for the dumpling dough; can substitute with skuta cheese or other soft cheeses.
Semolina Flour – Adds structure and softness to the dumplings; regular all-purpose flour may not yield the same texture.
Egg Yolks – Act as a binding agent, enriching the dough.
Melted Butter – Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
Baking Powder – Helps the dumplings rise slightly during cooking.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the dumplings.
Vanilla Paste – Imparts a fragrant aroma to the dish.

For the Filling

Plums – Main fruit filling providing sweetness and tartness; substitute with frozen plums or fruits like peaches or apricots.
Sugar – Helps to release juices from the fruit and enhances sweetness.

For the Coating

Breadcrumbs – Adds texture and crunch when coating the dumplings.
BAM Spices Sweet Love (optional) – For a unique flavor enhancement, can add a hint of spice to the coating.

How to Make Plum Dumplings with Ricotta

Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, semolina flour, egg yolks, melted butter, baking powder, salt, and vanilla paste. Knead the mixture until smooth and well-combined, then refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to firm up.
Make the Fruit Filling:
Take your plums and cut them in half, carefully removing the pits. Sprinkle about a teaspoon of sugar into each plum half, allowing them to release their natural juices.
Form the Dumplings:
Roll about 2 tablespoons of the chilled dough into a small patty. Place a prepared plum half in the center, then seal the dough around the fruit, shaping it into a round dumpling. Dust the dumplings with a bit of semolina flour and set them aside on a floured baking sheet.
Cook the Dumplings:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Carefully lower the dumplings into the pot, reducing the heat to simmering. Cook them for 15-18 minutes (or 20-23 minutes if cooking from frozen), until they float to the surface and are tender. Drain the dumplings gently.
Coat the Dumplings:
In a pan over medium-high heat, melt a generous amount of butter. Add breadcrumbs and sugar (along with any optional spices if desired) and cook, stirring, until golden brown. Add the drained dumplings to the pan, gently rolling to coat them evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.

Optional: Serve warm with a drizzle of fruit compote or a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Plum Dumplings with Ricotta

Fridge: Store the dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezer: Freeze shaped but uncooked dumplings on a floured baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Cooking From Frozen: When you’re ready to enjoy your Plum Dumplings with Ricotta, cook them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for perfectly tender results.

Reheating: If reheating cooked dumplings, do so gently in a skillet with a bit of butter to restore their delightful texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Plum Dumplings with Ricotta are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dumpling dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can shape the dumplings with the plums inside and freeze them for up to 3 months—just make sure to space them apart on a baking sheet first to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, cook the frozen dumplings straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for perfectly tender results. By prepping in advance, you’ll save valuable time on busy weeknights while still indulging in these delightful homemade treats!

Plum Dumplings with Ricotta Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delectable dumplings, enhancing their flavor and texture to suit your tastes!

Different Fruits: Substitute plums with apricots, peaches, or cherries for delightful flavor twists. Each fruit brings its unique sweetness to each bite.
Nutty Coating: Incorporate ground nuts like almonds or walnuts into the breadcrumb mixture for an added crunch and depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the soft dumplings.
Spiced Delight: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the breadcrumb mix for a warm, aromatic twist that will elevate the taste experience. Imagine those comforting winter nights enhanced by just the right spice.
Maple Infusion: Drizzle a bit of maple syrup over cooked dumplings instead of sugar for a rich, caramel-like sweetness that lends a new dimension to the dish.
Coconut Flakes: Try rolling your dumplings in toasted coconut flakes for a tropical flair and chewy texture that will make each bite feel like a mini vacation.
Cheese Blend: For a richer filling, mix in some cream cheese or mascarpone with the ricotta, creating a creamy and luscious filling that melts in your mouth.
Heat it Up: Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mixture can provide a surprising kick that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the dumplings.
Zesty Citrus: A touch of grated lemon or orange zest in the dough will brighten the flavors and add a refreshing twist to the overall dessert. Imagine the fresh, invigorating aroma filling your kitchen!

Expert Tips for Plum Dumplings with Ricotta

Seal Carefully: Ensure each dumpling is well-sealed to prevent any filling from leaking out during cooking.
Gentle Boil: Maintain a gentle simmer while cooking; a rapid boil can cause dumplings to break apart.
Chill the Dough: Don’t skip refrigerating the dough! It improves the texture of the dumplings and makes them easier to handle.
Experiment with Fruits: Feel free to mix and match with seasonal fruits like peaches or apricots for delicious Plum Dumplings with Ricotta variations.
Golden Coating: Achieve a perfect golden-brown coating by stirring the dumplings gently in the breadcrumb mixture to avoid breaking them.

What to Serve with Plum Dumplings with Ricotta?

Elevate your meal experience with these delightful pairings that enhance the comforting flavors of your plum dumplings.

Homemade Fruit Compote: A vibrant sauce made with fresh or frozen fruits, it adds a luscious layer of sweetness that complements the dumplings beautifully.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar over the warm dumplings introduces warm spice notes, making every bite a cozy indulgence.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, whipped cream provides a creamy contrast that balances the sweetness of the dumplings, inviting even more delightful flavors.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The rich, creamy texture of vanilla ice cream creates a gorgeous contrast with the warm dumplings, making for a blissful dessert experience.
Honey Drizzle: A touch of honey poured over the dumplings adds natural sweetness and a fragrant aroma, enhancing their delicious profile.

Imagine gathering your loved ones to share in this delightful treat, all while indulging in these tasty companions that perfectly celebrate the seasonal joys of plum dumplings.

Plum Dumplings with Ricotta Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting plums for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing plums, look for fruit that is slightly soft to the touch but not overly mushy. The skin should have a rich color without any dark spots or blemishes. Avoid fruit that feels very hard, as it may not soften enough during cooking.

How should I store my Plum Dumplings with Ricotta?
For best results, store freshly made dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have leftovers or want to prepare ahead, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. If stacking, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking!

Can I freeze Plum Dumplings with Ricotta? How?
Absolutely! To freeze, shape the dumplings but do not cook them. Place them on a floured baking sheet without touching each other, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the boiling time.

What if my dumplings are falling apart while cooking?
Ah, a common concern! If your dumplings are breaking apart, it likely means they weren’t sealed tightly enough or there may be too much moisture in the dough. Ensure each dumpling is tightly sealed and try refrigerating the dough for a bit longer before forming them. Additionally, maintain a gentle simmer, as a rapid boil can cause them to break apart.

Are these dumplings pet-friendly? Can I share any with my dog?
While most of the ingredients are safe for dogs, be cautious with the sugar and buttery coating. A small piece, without the breadcrumbs or sugar, could be a delightful treat for your pup, but it’s always best to consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods.

Can I adapt this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very much so! To make gluten-free dumplings, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend instead of semolina and all-purpose flour. For dairy-free options, substitute ricotta with a quality dairy-free cheese, blending in a bit of oil to achieve the right texture. Keep experimenting to find what works best for your dietary needs!