Plum dumplings are a beloved comfort food in many Central and Eastern European kitchens, a dish that beautifully combines simplicity with a touch of sweetness. At first glance, they may seem like a humble treat, but one bite reveals the magic inside: tender dough wrapped around juicy, ripe plums, often dusted with cinnamon sugar or rolled in buttery breadcrumbs. The contrast of soft dough and sweet fruit makes this dessert both nostalgic and satisfying.
Traditionally, the dough is made from potatoes, flour, and eggs, giving it a pillowy texture that balances the tartness of the plums. Once shaped and boiled, the dumplings are finished in a coating of golden breadcrumbs toasted in butter, which adds a nutty crunch. A sprinkle of sugar or a drizzle of honey takes them to another level, creating a dessert that is rustic yet elegant.
Plum dumplings are often enjoyed during late summer and early autumn when plums are in season and at their juiciest. Families gather to prepare them in batches, making the dish as much about the process as it is about the taste. For many, it carries the flavor of childhood, bringing back memories of warm kitchens, family meals, and the joy of sharing something homemade.
While they are most often served as a dessert, plum dumplings can also double as a main course in some traditions, especially when accompanied by a simple soup or light salad. Their versatility makes them a comforting option for both everyday meals and festive occasions.
What makes plum dumplings so special is their ability to blend savory and sweet elements into one harmonious dish. The dough is hearty, the fruit is bright, and the finish is indulgent without being overly rich. They are a reminder that the best comfort foods are often the simplest, born from seasonal ingredients and family traditions.
Whether served warm straight from the pot or reheated the next day, plum dumplings bring a touch of sweetness and nostalgia to the table. They celebrate the beauty of seasonal fruit, the creativity of traditional cooking, and the joy of gathering over food that connects generations.
Ingredients
- 10 pieces plums small and ripe
- 250 grams all-purpose flour for the dough
- 1 pinch salt
- 50 grams butter melted, for coating
- 100 grams breadcrumbs for coating
- 3 tablespoons sugar or to taste
Instructions
- Pit the plums by removing the stones carefully, trying not to break the fruit.
- In a bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, a pinch of salt, and a little water to form a soft, pliable dough.
- Divide the dough into as many parts as there are plums, flatten each part and wrap it around a plum.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and gently place the dumplings into the boiling water. Cook until they float to the surface, about 10-15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, in a pan, melt the butter and add the breadcrumbs. Toast them until golden brown.
- Remove the dumplings from the pot and roll them in the toasted breadcrumbs, then sprinkle with sugar before serving.
Nutrition
Simple and tasty! I’d suggest adding cinnamon to the breadcrumbs next time for a fun twist 🙂
Great idea! Cinnamon would add a nice warmth to it. I’ll definitely try that next time!
I tried making these but the dough was too sticky. Maybe I added too much water? Not sure about this recipe.
These dumplings are absolutely delicious! The plums were perfectly sweet and tangy. Definitely making this again!
Yum! The kids loved them. They’re a great treat for summer. I used a mix of plums and peaches because I had them!
Way too much sugar for my taste! Should have watched the sugar a bit. Might try again with less.
Dough was hard to work with, and they fell apart while boiling. Maybe a beginner’s recipe?
Honestly, I found it pretty easy. Maybe just try using less flour? It’s not that complicated! 😏
I had the same issue! The dough was tough. I think I might have added too much flour. 🤷♀️
These turned out amazing! The kids loved them! 💕
I forgot the sugar! Oops. They were fine but maybe not as tasty.
Don’t sweat it! Sugar’s just for taste, but those dumplings still sound good. 😊
How can you forget the sugar? That’s like making pancakes without the syrup! 😩
Plums are too sweet, what’s the point?? I used peaches instead, still good.
I’m really skeptical about the butter and breadcrumbs. Isn’t that too much?
Yummy! I can’t stop eating them! 😍
So easy to make, even for a beginner like me! Will make again.