Blackberry Dumplings
Sweet and tart blackberry dumplings feature juicy berries topped with soft, spiced dough, perfect for cozy gatherings and berry lovers craving comforting desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine berries, 1 cup sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and lemon extract.
- Bring to a boil, lower heat, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, nutmeg, remaining sugar, and salt.
- Add milk to the dry ingredients and stir until just mixed; the dough will be thick.
- Drop by tablespoonfuls into mounds onto the hot blackberry mixture.
- Cover tightly and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Spoon into serving dishes.
- Serve with cream or whipped cream if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker filling, consider adding a cornstarch slurry to the blackberry mixture before adding the dumplings. If you don't have lemon extract, lemon juice can be a great substitute. For a twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dumpling dough. You can also experiment with other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
These blackberry dumplings are delicious served warm, topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair beautifully with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the sweetness. For a heartier dessert, consider serving them alongside a slice of cake or a bowl of ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover blackberry dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings for about 30 seconds until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Blackberry Dumplings contains roughly 227 calories, with 4g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (66% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1503mg per serving (65% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen blackberries can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before cooking to avoid a watery filling. You may need to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the frozen berries.
How can I make the dumplings fluffier?
To achieve fluffier dumplings, be careful not to overmix the dough after adding the milk. Mixing just until combined will help maintain a light texture. Additionally, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as this is crucial for proper rising during cooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum to help mimic the texture of traditional flour. Adjust the liquid slightly if needed, as gluten-free flours can vary in absorption.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).