Fruit Dumplings
Fruit dumplings feature tender pastry filled with sweetened seasonal fruits, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a comforting dessert or a delightful treat for family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift dry ingredients; add shortening and mix lightly with a fork.
- Add egg yolk to milk; add to dry mixture to make a soft dough.
- Roll half the dough 1/4-inch thick; cut into quarters.
- Fit each quarter into a muffin pan.
- Fill with chopped or sliced fruit and sweeten to taste.
- Pinch edges together on top to seal.
- Repeat with remaining dough and fruit.
- Bake in a hot oven at 425°F for 15 minutes.
- Reduce oven temperature to 375°F and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Use apples, peaches, strawberries, or rhubarb as fruit options.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier texture, try substituting half of the shortening with butter. Always use cold ingredients when making the dough. If you prefer a sweeter filling, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the fruit. For a healthier twist, use whole wheat pastry flour. This recipe is versatile; try using seasonal fruits for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these fruit dumplings warm, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with honey for added sweetness. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for dessert. For a delightful brunch option, consider serving alongside creamy Brussel sprouts or elite egg custard.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, helping to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the dumplings soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fruit Dumplings contains roughly 536 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1113mg per serving (48% 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 fruit instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen fruit, but be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture to prevent a soggy filling. Frozen fruits may also require additional sweetening, as they can be less sweet than fresh. Adjust the sugar based on your taste preferences.
What if I don't have pastry flour?
If you don't have pastry flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour, but the texture may be slightly denser. For a closer match, try mixing 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to create a lighter texture.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just ensure it's wrapped tightly to prevent drying out. When ready to use, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before rolling out.
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).