Apricot Dumplings
Apricot dumplings are a delightful treat that brings together the sweetness of ripe apricots and a soft, fluffy dough. Perfect for any occasion, these dumplings offer a unique twist on traditional desserts. They are easy to make and are sure to impress your family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe
Making apricot dumplings is a wonderful way to enjoy fresh apricots in a new and exciting way. This recipe is simple, budget-friendly, and doesn’t require exotic ingredients. The dumplings are a comforting dessert that can remind you of home, making them great for family gatherings or special occasions.
How to Make Apricot Dumplings
Ingredients:
- 250 g quark (or farmer’s cheese)
- 60 g unsalted butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 pinch salt
- 200 g all-purpose flour
- 8 small apricots (pitted)
- 8 sugar cubes (optional, to place inside apricots)
- 80 g breadcrumbs
- 50 g butter (for crumb coating)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- Powdered sugar (for serving)
Directions:
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Make the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the quark, softened butter, egg, and salt. Gradually add the flour until a soft dough forms. Chill the dough for 30 minutes.
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Prepare apricots: While the dough is chilling, pit the apricots. If you like your dumplings sweet, insert a sugar cube into each apricot.
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Form dumplings: Take a piece of dough and flatten it. Wrap it around an apricot and seal it properly. Repeat this step for all the apricots.
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Cook dumplings: In a large pot, gently boil water. Add the dumplings to the boiling water and simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until they rise to the surface.
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Make crumb coating: In another pan, toast the breadcrumbs in butter until they turn golden brown. Add sugar and mix it well.
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Coat and serve: Roll the hot dumplings in the buttery breadcrumbs. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve them warm.
How to Serve Apricot Dumplings
Serve the apricot dumplings warm for the best taste. They are delicious on their own or can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
How to Store Apricot Dumplings
If you have leftovers, allow the dumplings to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply steam them for a few minutes or warm them in the microwave.
Tips to Make Apricot Dumplings
- Make sure the apricots are ripe but firm for the best flavor and texture.
- You can adjust the sweetness by using more or fewer sugar cubes inside the apricots.
- If the dough is too sticky, you can sprinkle in a bit more flour while working with it.
Variation
You can try using other fruits, such as plums or peaches, instead of apricots. This will give you a different flavor while keeping the recipe the same.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of quark?
Yes, farmer’s cheese is a great alternative, and you can also try ricotta cheese if that’s what you have.
2. How do I know when the dumplings are cooked?
The dumplings are ready when they float to the top of the boiling water. Simmer them for an additional 2-3 minutes once they rise.
3. Can I freeze apricot dumplings?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked dumplings. Just place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, boil them straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
