Jump to Recipe Print Recipe“Did you hear that?” my friend exclaimed as the unmistakable scent of sweet blackberries filled the kitchen. I turned around, and there it was—a bubbling pot of Southern Blackberry Dumplings simmering away, ready to be draped over a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This cozy dessert is not only easy to make, but it also brings a comforting warmth that can transform any evening into a special occasion. Whether you’re using fresh or frozen blackberries, the tender dumplings soaked in a luscious sweet sauce are sure to satisfy your cravings. Perfect for gatherings or a simple night in, this recipe is a delightful way to share the love of homemade food. Curious about how to whip up this charming Southern classic in your own kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why are Blackberry Dumplings a must-try? Warm, Cozy Comfort: These Blackberry Dumplings offer a heartfelt taste of Southern hospitality that’s perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. Easy to Make: With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delightful dessert that even beginners will love. Versatile Delight: Whether you choose fresh or frozen blackberries, these dumplings guarantee a burst of sweet flavor. Heavenly Texture: The fluffy dumplings combined with a thick, sweet sauce create a comforting dessert that melts in your mouth. Serve with Style: Elevate your presentation with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly indulgent experience. You’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again as a wonderful comfort food option and a beloved addition to your dessert rotation! Blackberry Dumpling Ingredients • Discover the essential ingredients to create delightful Blackberry Dumplings! For the Sauce • Blackberries – Fresh or frozen blackberries bring natural sweetness and a tart zing to the sauce. • Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the sauce and dough, enriching the overall flavor. • Water – Forms the base of the sauce, helping to combine all ingredients smoothly. • Lemon Juice – Adds a bright acidity that enhances the blackberry’s flavor. • Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and depth into the sauce for that cozy touch. • Vanilla Extract – Provides a hint of sweetness and aromatic notes to the sauce. For the Dumplings • Flour – Forms the backbone of the dumpling structure, creating a fluffy texture. • Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure your dumplings rise to perfection. • Salt – Balances sweetness, elevating the overall flavor profile. • Unsalted Butter – Adds rich creaminess, contributing to a tender dumpling texture. • Buttermilk – Ensures moisture and tenderness in dumplings; substitute with lemon juice or vinegar if needed. • Ground Cinnamon – A touch of warm spice enhances the dumpling flavor. With these ingredients, you’re ready to embark on your culinary journey to making the most delightful Blackberry Dumplings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Blackberry Dumplings Step 1: Prepare Blackberry Sauce In a medium skillet, combine 2 cups of blackberries, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer, stirring gently to dissolve the sugar and incorporate flavors. Allow this delightful blackberry sauce to bubble for about 5-7 minutes until the berries soften and release their juices. Step 2: Make Dumpling Dough In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 2 tablespoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 cup of sugar. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in 1/4 cup of cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually stir in 3/4 cup of buttermilk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the dough is just moistened but not over-mixed. Step 3: Cook Dumplings Once the blackberry sauce is bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Using a tablespoon, drop small dollops of dumpling dough (about 1 tablespoon each) into the simmering sauce, ensuring they are spaced slightly apart. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid and let the dumplings cook for 12-14 minutes, avoiding the temptation to lift the lid. The dumplings should be fluffy and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 195°F. Step 4: Serve After the dumplings are cooked to perfection, allow them to cool slightly for about 5 minutes before serving. Gently spoon the warm Blackberry Dumplings into bowls, ensuring each serving is topped with a generous amount of the sweet sauce. For an indulgent touch, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top, making this comforting dessert even more delightful. Expert Tips for Blackberry Dumplings • Simmer Wisely: Make sure to let the dumplings simmer without lifting the lid. This traps heat and steam, ensuring fluffy, perfectly cooked Blackberry Dumplings. • Don’t Over-Mix: Mix the dumpling dough just until combined; over-mixing can lead to tough dumplings. Embrace a gentle hand! • Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh blackberries when possible for the best flavor, but frozen can work beautifully in a pinch; just don’t thaw them before use. • Check Doneness: Use a digital thermometer to verify that dumplings reach an internal temperature of 195°F for optimal fluffiness. • Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to tweak the amount of sugar in the sauce based on your personal taste or the tartness of the blackberries. • Finish with Style: Elevate your presentation by adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of cream over your warm servings for an irresistible touch! What to Serve with Southern Blackberry Dumplings Nothing complements the cozy allure of warm blackberry dumplings quite like thoughtfully paired sides and drinks that elevate your dessert experience. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds rich sweetness and complements the warm, sweet blackberry sauce beautifully. Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the dessert’s sweetness while providing a velvety contrast to the dumplings. Fresh Mint Leaves: Bright, aromatic mint leaves add freshness and a pop of color, enhancing the dessert’s visual appeal and flavor. Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest on top provides a lovely citrusy brightness that balances the sweetness of the blackberry sauce. Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee or espresso can cut through the sweetness and offers a charming contrast to the dessert. Peach Cobbler: Serve alongside a small serving of peach cobbler; the flavors meld well together, creating a delightful Southern dessert spread. Sweet Tea: A glass of refreshing sweet tea pairs perfectly, providing a classic Southern beverage that complements the warmth of the dumplings. Sugary Almond Biscotti: Crunchy, nutty biscotti adds a delightful texture contrast, making your dessert experience even more enjoyable. Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of dark chocolate sauce over the dumplings adds a hint of decadence and deep flavor that resonates beautifully. Make Ahead Options These Blackberry Dumplings are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the blackberry sauce up to 3 days in advance by combining the blackberries, sugar, water, lemon juice, cinnamon, and vanilla in a skillet, then refrigerating it once cooked and cooled. For the dumpling dough, mix the dry ingredients and cut in the butter a day ahead; store it in the fridge wrapped tightly in plastic. When you’re ready to enjoy your dumplings, simply reheat the sauce on the stove, bring it to a simmer, and drop in the chilled dumpling dough. This way, you save precious time on busy nights while keeping your dessert just as delicious and comforting! Blackberry Dumplings Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and tailor these Blackberry Dumplings to suit your taste buds! Berry Mix: Swap blackberries for raspberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry medley for a delightful twist. Each berry has its unique flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully. Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond milk or oat milk in place of buttermilk for a dairy-free version. Your dumplings will still be tender and fluffy without the dairy! Nutty Flavor: Stir in chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the dumpling dough to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. This enhances the texture, creating a lovely contrast with the soft dumplings. Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dumpling dough for warmth and a hint of exotic flavor. These spices blend beautifully with the sweetness of the blackberries. Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest into the dough or sauce for a burst of freshness. It brings a bright, zesty aroma that elevates your dumplings. Heat It Up: For a touch of heat, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper to the sauce. This unexpected kick complements the sweetness of the blackberries wonderfully. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make your dumplings gluten-free without sacrificing that fluffy texture. You might even find it enhances the overall flavor! Creamy Sauce: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or coconut cream into the blackberry sauce before serving. This adds a rich creaminess that takes your dessert to another level of indulgence. Whatever variation you choose, you’re bound to create a cozy and heartwarming dessert experience! And if you want some ideas on how to serve these delightful dumplings, consider pairing them with a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream or try whipped cream for a truly comforting treat. How to Store and Freeze Blackberry Dumplings Refrigerator: Store leftover Blackberry Dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick dessert fix! Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dumplings in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and keep for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy your dumplings again, reheat in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. You can also reheat on the stove in the blackberry sauce over low heat for a few minutes. Serving Reminder: These Blackberry Dumplings are best enjoyed warm, so a little reheating will help revive their delightful texture and flavor! Blackberry Dumplings Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best blackberries for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting blackberries, look for ones that are plump and firm with a deep purple-black color. Avoid berries that have dark spots or appear mushy, as they may be overripe. If using frozen blackberries, opt for those without added sugars for a more natural flavor. How should I store leftover Blackberry Dumplings? You can store leftover Blackberry Dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This way, they stay fresh and delicious for your next dessert craving! Can I freeze Blackberry Dumplings? Yes, you can freeze them! To freeze, place the dumplings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them using a microwave or gently in the blackberry sauce. What if my dumplings turn out tough? The best way to prevent tough dumplings is to avoid over-mixing the dough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined and no dry flour remains. Additionally, ensure that the dumplings simmer appropriately without lifting the lid, as this keeps them fluffy. If they still seem dense, be sure to check that you’re using fresh baking powder, as it plays a crucial role in achieving light dumplings. Are Blackberry Dumplings safe for my pets or those with allergies? While Blackberry Dumplings are a delightful dessert for humans, be cautious with pets, particularly cats and dogs, as blackberries can be safe in moderation but may cause upset stomachs in some animals. If you or someone has allergies, substitute the buttermilk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk to suit dietary needs. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens. Warm and Cozy Blackberry Dumplings You’ll Adore Indulge in these comforting Blackberry Dumplings, a delightful Southern dessert perfect for any occasion. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 6 dumplingsCourse: DessertCuisine: SouthernCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Sauce2 cups blackberries fresh or frozen1 cup granulated sugar1 cup water2 tablespoons lemon juice1 teaspoon ground cinnamon1 teaspoon vanilla extractFor the Dumplings2 cups flour2 tablespoons baking powder1 teaspoon ground cinnamon1 teaspoon salt1/4 cup granulated sugar1/4 cup cold unsalted butter3/4 cup buttermilk1 teaspoon vanilla extract Equipment medium skilletlarge mixing bowlwooden spoon or spatula Method Prepare Blackberry SauceIn a medium skillet, combine 2 cups of blackberries, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer, stirring gently to dissolve the sugar and incorporate flavors. Allow this delightful blackberry sauce to bubble for about 5-7 minutes until the berries soften and release their juices.Make Dumpling DoughIn a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 2 tablespoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 cup of sugar. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in 1/4 cup of cold unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually stir in 3/4 cup of buttermilk and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the dough is just moistened but not over-mixed.Cook DumplingsOnce the blackberry sauce is bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Using a tablespoon, drop small dollops of dumpling dough (about 1 tablespoon each) into the simmering sauce, ensuring they are spaced slightly apart. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid and let the dumplings cook for 12-14 minutes, avoiding the temptation to lift the lid. The dumplings should be fluffy and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 195°F.ServeAfter the dumplings are cooked to perfection, allow them to cool slightly for about 5 minutes before serving. Gently spoon the warm Blackberry Dumplings into bowls, ensuring each serving is topped with a generous amount of the sweet sauce. For an indulgent touch, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top, making this comforting dessert even more delightful. Nutrition Serving: 1dumplingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesSimmer the dumplings without lifting the lid for fluffy results. Mix gently to avoid tough dumplings. Use fresh blackberries for the best flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
