Steamed Dumplings, known as Dampfnudel, are delightful, fluffy treats that originate from Germany. They are soft, pillowy buns that can be enjoyed as a main dish or a sweet dessert. Traditionally served with a rich vanilla sauce, these dumplings are a comforting, satisfying meal that can bring warmth to any table.
Why Make This Recipe
Steamed Dumplings are perfect for anyone who loves a simple yet delicious homemade meal. They are easy to make and require just a few basic ingredients. Not only are they a fun cooking project, but they also make for an impressive dish to serve at gatherings or family dinners. With their soft texture and sweet vanilla sauce, Dampfnudel can please both kids and adults alike. Plus, the process of making them can be a fun activity to do with friends or family!
How to Make Steamed Dumplings (Dampfnudel)
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the vanilla sauce:
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- cornstarch (to thicken)
Directions
- In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit until bubbly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 5-10 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions. Shape into buns.
- Place the buns in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper, cover, and let rise again for 30 minutes.
- Steam the buns for about 15-20 minutes until fluffy.
- For the vanilla sauce, heat milk, heavy cream, and sugar in a saucepan. Mix cornstarch with a little cold water, then add to the sauce to thicken. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Serve the steamed dumplings warm with the vanilla sauce.
How to Serve Steamed Dumplings (Dampfnudel)
Serve the steamed dumplings warm, drizzled with the sweet vanilla sauce. They can be enjoyed as a dessert or even as a sweet complement to savory dishes. Consider serving them with fresh fruits or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch.
How to Store Steamed Dumplings (Dampfnudel)
If you have leftovers, store the steamed dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for about 2-3 days. To reheat, you can steam them again for a few minutes until warm.
Tips to Make Steamed Dumplings (Dampfnudel)
- Ensure your milk is warm, but not hot. Too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold will not activate it.
- Knead the dough well for the best texture. The dough should feel smooth and elastic.
- Let the dough rise in a warm environment to encourage proper fermentation.
- Don’t rush the steaming process. Allow enough time for the dumplings to become fluffy.
Variation
You can add different flavors to the dumplings by mixing in cocoa powder for a chocolate version or adding spices like cinnamon for a warm flavor. Experimenting with fillings like jams or fruit purees can also create delicious variations!
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. You might need to adjust the liquid slightly.
2. What can I do if my dough doesn’t rise?
Make sure your yeast is fresh and the milk is warm. If the kitchen is too cold, try placing the bowl in a warm spot or using the oven with the light on.
3. Can I freeze the steamed dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze the dumplings before steaming. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you want to eat them, steam directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
