Plum Dumplings with Ricotta Recipe

Introduction

Plum Dumplings with Ricotta Recipe is a dessert that feels like a warm hug, combining the sweetness of plums with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, all enveloped in a soft, delicate dough. This dish has a rustic, homemade charm, with each dumpling offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The fresh plums burst with juiciness, while the creamy ricotta adds a smooth richness that complements the fruit beautifully. Finished off with a dusting of cinnamon and sugar or a drizzle of honey, these dumplings offer a comforting, slightly indulgent treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day.

The first time I made Plum Dumplings with Ricotta, I was taken aback by how easy it was to create such a unique dessert. As I prepared the dough and wrapped the plums, I couldn’t help but feel excited about the flavors that would soon come together. Once they were boiled to perfection, the dumplings were light and pillowy, and the scent of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the kitchen was irresistible. The first bite was pure bliss—the juicy plums combined with the creamy ricotta filling made for a delightful contrast, and I couldn’t stop at just one!

What I love most about these Plum Dumplings with Ricotta is how they feel both special and down-to-earth. They’re perfect for a family gathering, but also wonderful for a quiet evening when you want a sweet, comforting treat. You can easily customize the filling, adding a touch of lemon zest or a sprinkle of brown sugar for extra depth. No matter how you make them, these dumplings are sure to become a favorite that always impresses.

Perfect for:

• Seasonal celebrations
• Family gatherings
• Special occasions
• Comfort food lovers
• Fruit-based dessert fans

Why You’ll Love This Plum Dumplings with Ricotta

Here’s why Plum Dumplings with Ricotta will become your go-to dessert:

• Sweet and Savory Fusion: The juicy, tart plums paired with the creamy ricotta create a perfect balance of flavors, offering something both sweet and satisfying.
• Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses common ingredients like plums, ricotta, and dough, making it easy to prepare and a great way to showcase fresh seasonal fruit.
• Versatile Dessert: These dumplings can be served with a variety of toppings like cinnamon sugar, honey, or whipped cream, allowing you to customize them to your taste.
• Light and Fluffy: The dumplings are light, tender, and soft, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs beautifully with the richness of the ricotta.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: Whether it’s a family dinner or a special holiday, these dumplings make a charming and elegant dessert that will wow your guests.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

For Plum Dumplings with Ricotta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 10-12 ripe plums (pitted and halved)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon sugar (for the filling)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg (for the dough)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar (for the dough)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• ½ cup water (or as needed for dough consistency)
• Cinnamon sugar or honey for serving
• Fresh mint for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Plums: Fresh, ripe plums are essential to this recipe, bringing a sweet-tart flavor that complements the creamy ricotta.
• Ricotta Cheese: This soft, creamy cheese is the base of the dumpling filling, adding richness and smoothness to the texture.
• All-Purpose Flour: Used to make the dough, giving the dumplings a light, fluffy texture.
• Egg and Butter: These ingredients bind the dough together, adding structure and flavor.
• Cinnamon Sugar: A classic topping that adds sweetness and spice, enhancing the flavor of the dumplings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Plum Dumplings with Ricotta:

Prepare the Filling:

1. Mix the Ricotta Filling: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 tablespoon sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well-combined. Set aside.

Prepare the Dough:

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, 1 tablespoon sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, melted butter, and enough water to the dry ingredients to form a soft dough. You may need to adjust the amount of water slightly to get the right consistency, but the dough should be slightly sticky.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes.
5. Roll Out the Dough: Roll the dough out into a large sheet, about ¼ inch thick. Use a round cutter (a glass or a cookie cutter works) to cut the dough into circles, large enough to wrap around the plums.

Assemble the Dumplings:

6. Fill the Dumplings: Place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture in the center of each dough circle. Place a plum half on top of the ricotta, then carefully fold the dough around the plum and pinch the edges to seal.
7. Boil the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the water and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon.

Serve:

8. Garnish and Serve: Once the dumplings are cooked, transfer them to serving plates. Dust with cinnamon sugar or drizzle with honey. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired for a touch of color and freshness.

How to Serve Plum Dumplings with Ricotta

Plum Dumplings with Ricotta are a versatile dessert that can be served in various ways:

• With Cinnamon Sugar: A simple dusting of cinnamon sugar on top enhances the sweetness of the dumplings and adds a warm, comforting touch.
• With Honey: Drizzle honey over the dumplings for an extra layer of sweetness and a slight floral note that pairs wonderfully with the plums.
• As a Light Dessert: These dumplings can be served as a light dessert after a heavy meal, offering a refreshing balance of fruit and creamy cheese.
• With Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside a few extra fresh plums or berries for an added burst of fresh fruit.
• With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds richness and pairs beautifully with the soft dumplings.

Additional Tips for Plum Dumplings with Ricotta

Here are some tips to make your Plum Dumplings with Ricotta even better:

• Choose Ripe Plums: Make sure your plums are ripe and slightly soft, as they’ll be easier to stuff and provide the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Adjust Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too sticky to work with, add a little more flour. If it’s too dry, add a touch more water.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough is too soft to handle, chill it for 15-20 minutes before rolling it out to make it easier to work with.
• Use a Non-Stick Pot: To prevent the dumplings from sticking while boiling, use a non-stick pot or add a little oil to the water.
• Serve Warm: For the best texture and flavor, serve the dumplings immediately after boiling while they’re still warm.

Recipe Variations for Plum Dumplings with Ricotta

Here are 10 variations you can try for Plum Dumplings with Ricotta:

• Peach Dumplings with Ricotta: Swap plums for ripe peaches for a summery version of this dessert.
• Berry Dumplings: Use blueberries, blackberries, or raspberries in place of plums for a fruity twist.
• Apple Dumplings: Try using peeled and cored apples for a warm, autumnal variation.
• Cottage Cheese Filling: Swap ricotta for cottage cheese for a slightly different texture and tang.
• Nuts and Ricotta: Add chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to the ricotta filling for added crunch.
• Cinnamon Apples: Fill the dumplings with cooked cinnamon apples for a spiced variation.
• Poppy Seed Dumplings: Add ground poppy seeds to the dough for a nutty, earthy flavor.
• Chocolate Plum Dumplings: Add a small piece of dark chocolate inside each dumpling for a rich, decadent surprise.
• Vegan Ricotta Dumplings: Substitute the ricotta with a plant-based ricotta or coconut cream for a vegan version.
• Honeyed Plum Dumplings: Instead of cinnamon sugar, drizzle the dumplings with honey and top with a few crushed pistachios for a Middle Eastern-inspired twist.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the dumplings before boiling. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag or container. Boil directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in hot water or in the microwave.

Special Equipment for Plum Dumplings with Ricotta

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing Plum Dumplings with Ricotta easier:

• Large Pot: Used for boiling the dumplings.
• Rolling Pin: To roll the dough out to the correct thickness.
• Round Cutter: A glass or cookie cutter to cut the dough into circles.
• Slotted Spoon: To remove the dumplings from the water without them falling apart.
• Mixing Bowls: To combine the filling and dough ingredients.
• Sifter: For dusting the dumplings with cinnamon sugar evenly.

FAQ Section for Plum Dumplings with Ricotta

1. Can I use frozen plums for this recipe?
   Fresh plums are recommended for the best texture and flavor, but frozen plums can be used in a pinch. Thaw them completely and pat dry before using.
2. Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the dumplings and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before boiling. Just be sure to cover them to prevent the dough from drying out.
3. Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?
   You can use cottage cheese as a substitute, though it may alter the texture slightly. Make sure to drain it well before using.
4. What can I serve with Plum Dumplings?
   Serve with whipped cream, fresh mint, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
5. Can I freeze the dumplings?
   Yes, you can freeze the dumplings before boiling. Freeze them individually and then store them in a freezer bag for later use.

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Conclusion

Plum Dumplings with Ricotta is the perfect dessert that blends comfort with elegance. The soft, pillowy dough envelops a creamy ricotta filling, while the juicy, sweet-tart plums add a burst of flavor to every bite. This dessert is a beautiful way to celebrate seasonal fruit, offering a delightful balance of textures and tastes that will leave everyone craving more. Whether for a family dinner or a special gathering, these dumplings will impress your guests with both their presentation and flavor.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility—adjust the sweetness of the plums or add a dusting of cinnamon or sugar to elevate the flavor even further. Serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for an extra touch of indulgence. These plum dumplings are not only delicious, but they also showcase the best of simple, comforting desserts with a touch of elegance.

I’d love to see how your Plum Dumplings with Ricotta turn out! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I can’t wait to see your delicious creation! Feel free to leave a comment or share any personal twists you added to the recipe. Enjoy!