Plum Dumplings with Ricotta

Introduction

Plum Dumplings with Ricotta is a delightful dish that beautifully blends the comforting flavors of Eastern European cuisine with a touch of sweetness. These dumplings, soft and pillowy, are like little pockets of joy. Imagine a delicate dough encasing juicy, ripe plums, paired with the creamy richness of ricotta. Once boiled to tender perfection, the dumplings are coated in buttery breadcrumbs and sprinkled with sugar, creating a satisfying contrast of flavors and textures.

This dish holds a special charm, whether served as a dessert or even a sweet main course. The first time I made them, I was reminded of the traditional recipes passed down through generations in my family. They always evoke a sense of nostalgia, bringing back memories of cozy family dinners, where these dumplings were the star of the table.

What I love most about Plum Dumplings is how comforting they are—each bite feels like a warm embrace. The sweetness of the plum blends seamlessly with the subtle creaminess of ricotta, while the buttery breadcrumb coating adds a slight crunch. It’s the kind of dish that warms both your heart and your taste buds.

These dumplings are perfect for special occasions or just when you’re craving something a little different, and they make for a wonderful conversation starter at gatherings. Whether you’re familiar with the flavors of Eastern European cuisine or exploring it for the first time, Plum Dumplings with Ricotta is a treat you’ll want to share with family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are several reasons to love Plum Dumplings with Ricotta:

• Perfect Balance of Sweet and Tart: The natural sweetness of the plums pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy ricotta filling for a delightful flavor contrast.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: These dumplings are a warm, satisfying treat that brings the comfort of traditional homemade meals.
• Unique Dessert: Plum dumplings are an elegant and lesser-known dessert that will impress your family and guests with its creativity.
• Easy to Make Ahead: You can prepare the dumplings in advance and freeze them, making it a convenient dessert for any occasion.
• Soft and Pillowy Texture: The dough is tender and light, creating a soft bite that’s a perfect complement to the juicy plum center.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these dumplings as a dessert, snack, or even a sweet breakfast treat.
• Homemade Goodness: The use of fresh ingredients and homemade dough gives these dumplings an authentic, comforting flavor that store-bought can’t match.
• Ricotta Adds Creaminess: The ricotta filling brings a creamy, mild sweetness that perfectly balances the tartness of the plums.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether served at a dinner party or a family meal, these dumplings are sure to impress and satisfy.
• Seasonal Delight: Ideal for late summer or early fall, when plums are at their peak ripeness, making these dumplings a fresh and seasonal treat.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6 dumplings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 320 calories per dumpling
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbohydrates: 45g, Fat: 13g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Plum Dumplings with Ricotta:

For the Dumplings:

• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese, well-drained
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 6 medium-sized ripe plums, halved and pitted
• 2 tablespoons sugar (for the plum filling)

For the Breadcrumb Coating:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Ricotta Cheese: Adds moisture and richness to the dough, making it incredibly soft and tender.
• Ripe Plums: Use ripe, juicy plums for the best flavor, providing a burst of tartness inside each dumpling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Plum Dumplings with Ricotta is a fun and easy process. Follow these simple steps:

1st Step: Prepare the Dough

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta, egg, melted butter, and salt. Stir until smooth. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but firm enough to handle.

2nd Step: Shape the Dumplings

• Divide the dough into six equal portions. Flatten each portion into a small disc. Place a plum half in the center of each disc and sprinkle with a little sugar. Fold the dough around the plum, sealing it completely to form a dumpling.

3rd Step: Cook the Dumplings

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the water and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Use a slotted spoon to remove the dumplings and set aside.

4th Step: Prepare the Breadcrumb Coating

• In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and cook, stirring frequently, until golden brown and crisp. Stir in the sugar and cinnamon (if using), and remove from heat.

5th Step: Coat the Dumplings

• Roll the cooked dumplings in the toasted breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. The buttery breadcrumbs add a delicious crunch and sweetness to the tender dumplings.

How to Serve

Here are some creative ways to serve Plum Dumplings with Ricotta:

• Drizzle with Honey: Add a sweet touch by drizzling warm honey over the dumplings just before serving.
• Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar: Toss the dumplings in a mix of cinnamon and sugar for extra flavor and a crunchy coating.
• Serve with Whipped Cream: Top each dumpling with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light and creamy contrast.
• Dust with Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar gives the dumplings a sweet finish and a lovely presentation.
• Add a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: Pair the warm dumplings with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a hot and cold dessert experience.
• Pour Over Fruit Compote: Serve the dumplings with a side of warm fruit compote, such as a berry or apricot sauce.
• Top with Ricotta Cream: Mix ricotta with a bit of sugar and lemon zest, then dollop it over the dumplings for extra richness.
• Serve as a Side to Coffee or Tea: These dumplings pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them perfect for a dessert or snack.
• Accompany with Crème Fraîche: Add a tangy element by serving the dumplings with a side of crème fraîche or sour cream.
• Garnish with Fresh Mint: For a refreshing touch, garnish each plate with a sprig of fresh mint, adding color and a hint of herbal flavor.

These serving ideas will enhance the flavors and presentation of your Plum Dumplings with Ricotta!

Additional Tips

To ensure your Plum Dumplings with Ricotta come out perfectly, here are some tips:

1. Use Ripe Plums: Choose ripe but firm plums for the best texture and sweetness. Overripe plums may become too mushy when cooked.
2. Drain Ricotta Well: Ensure the ricotta is well-drained to avoid adding extra moisture to the dough, which can make it too sticky.
3. Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dumpling dough for about 30 minutes before shaping helps it firm up and makes it easier to handle.
4. Flour Your Hands: Keep your hands lightly floured when shaping the dumplings to prevent the dough from sticking.
5. Freeze Plums First: For easier assembly, you can freeze the plums for a short time, making them firmer and easier to wrap in the dough.
6. Boil in Batches: To avoid overcrowding, boil the dumplings in small batches so they have room to cook evenly.
7. Test One Dumpling First: Boil one dumpling as a test before cooking the whole batch to ensure the dough holds together properly.
8. Toast Breadcrumbs with Butter: Toast the breadcrumbs in butter until golden brown to create a crispy, flavorful coating for the dumplings.
9. Serve Immediately: Plum dumplings are best enjoyed fresh and warm, right after cooking, to maintain the best texture and flavor.
10. Sprinkle with Cinnamon Sugar: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle the finished dumplings with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar just before serving.

These tips will help you create perfect, flavorful Plum Dumplings with Ricotta!

Recipe Variations

Here are some fun ways to customize your Plum Dumplings with Ricotta:

• Apricot Dumplings: Substitute plums with apricots for a sweet and slightly tangy twist.
• Cheese-Filled Dumplings: Instead of plums, use a sweetened ricotta filling inside the dumplings for a creamy surprise.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the dough, ensuring it’s suitable for gluten-intolerant guests.
• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Roll the dumplings in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar after boiling for an extra burst of warmth and sweetness.
• Almond Ricotta Filling: Add crushed almonds to the ricotta filling for added texture and a nutty flavor.
• Berry Mix Dumplings: Replace the plums with a mixture of berries such as raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a colorful and juicy variation.
• Vegan Version: Use a plant-based ricotta and egg substitute to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
• Lemon Zest Addition: Add lemon zest to the dough or filling for a citrusy flavor boost that complements the sweetness of the plums.
• Chocolate Center: Add a small piece of dark chocolate inside each dumpling with the plum for a rich, molten chocolate core.
• Savory Dumplings: Turn this into a savory dish by using a ricotta and herb filling, skipping the sugar and serving with a light olive oil or butter sauce.

These variations will allow you to enjoy your Plum Dumplings with Ricotta in different and exciting ways!

Freezing and Storage

Here’s how to store and freeze your Plum Dumplings with Ricotta:

• Storage: Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a skillet.
• Freezing: To freeze, place uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. Boil directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Special Equipment

Here are some items that will make preparing Plum Dumplings with Ricotta even easier:

• Large Mixing Bowls: To mix the dough and the ricotta filling.
• Potato Masher or Ricer: For mashing the potatoes used in the dumpling dough.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients like flour, sugar, and ricotta.
• Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dumpling dough evenly.
• Dumpling Press (Optional): Helps to shape the dumplings uniformly, though you can do this by hand as well.
• Slotted Spoon: Ideal for removing the dumplings from boiling water without breaking them.
• Large Pot: Needed for boiling the dumplings, ensuring they cook evenly.
• Fine Grater or Zester: For grating lemon zest or nutmeg into the dough or filling.
• Kitchen Scale: Helpful for measuring dough portions to ensure consistent dumpling size.
• Pastry Brush: To brush melted butter over the dumplings after cooking for added richness and shine.

These tools will ensure a smooth process in preparing the dumplings and give you the best results!

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about Plum Dumplings with Ricotta:

• Can I make the dough ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
• What other fruits can I use for filling?
  You can substitute plums with apricots, peaches, or even apples for a seasonal twist.
• Can I bake the dumplings instead of boiling them?
  While boiling is traditional, you could try baking the dumplings at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, but the texture will be different.
• Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs?
  Yes, but homemade breadcrumbs toasted in butter will provide a much richer flavor and crunch.

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Conclusion

Plum Dumplings with Ricotta are a delightful dessert that brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia to the table. The tender, ricotta-infused dough envelops sweet, juicy plums, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crispy breadcrumb coating adds a satisfying crunch, making each bite an irresistible experience.

These dumplings are not only delicious but also a beautiful way to celebrate seasonal fruits like plums. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, they’re bound to impress your family and friends. Serve them warm, dusted with powdered sugar, or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla sauce for an extra indulgent touch.

As you gather your ingredients and start preparing these dumplings, you’ll appreciate the simplicity and charm of this traditional dessert. It’s a recipe that invites you to slow down, savor the process, and share a moment of warmth and joy with those around you.

I can’t wait to see your version of these delicious Plum Dumplings! Be sure to snap a photo and share your creation with me on social media. Enjoy the cozy, satisfying treat that’s perfect for any gathering or a comforting sweet bite at home. Happy cooking!