Chocolate Dumplings
Chocolate dumplings feature rich cocoa-flavored syrup with tender cake-like batter, offering a comforting dessert perfect for chocolate lovers and cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine margarine, cocoa, 2 cups sugar, water, and 1/8 teaspoon salt in a 2-quart saucepan and boil gently on low heat for 20 minutes.
- Make a cake batter by mixing shortening, 1/3 cup sugar, vanilla, egg, flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, baking powder, and milk. Beat well.
- Gently spoon the batter into the boiling syrup.
- Cover and cook over very low heat for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute the margarine with unsalted butter. Ensure that the batter is not overmixed to keep the dumplings fluffy. For a fun twist, add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter. Always check the consistency of the syrup before adding the dumplings to ensure proper cooking.
Serving Suggestions
These chocolate dumplings are best served warm, drizzled with a little extra chocolate sauce or whipped cream. They pair beautifully with vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a fruit salad or a light beverage like iced tea. They also make a great dessert after a savory dish like Thai Fried Rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture, or warm them in a saucepan over low heat, covered, to prevent drying out. Reheating in the microwave may take 30 seconds to a minute depending on the portion size.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chocolate Dumplings contains roughly 851 calories, with 8g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (44% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 928mg per serving (40% 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 oil instead of shortening in the batter?
Yes, you can substitute shortening with an equal amount of vegetable or canola oil. However, keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly, as shortening helps create a fluffier dumpling.
How can I tell when the dumplings are done cooking?
The dumplings are done when they have risen and expanded slightly. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of a dumpling; if it comes out clean, they are fully cooked. Be careful not to lift the lid too often during cooking, as this can release steam and affect cooking time.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. The dumplings may have a slightly different texture, but they will still be delicious.
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).