Grandma’s Blackberry Dumplin’s is a cherished family recipe that brings back warm memories of summer days spent in the kitchen. This comforting dessert features juicy blackberries cooked in a sweet, cinnamon-spiced syrup, with tender, homemade dumplings nestled on top. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special treat, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to make this delicious dessert.
Ingredients
For the Blackberry Syrup:
- 1 quart fresh blackberries
- 2 cups white sugar (or to taste)
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Dumplings:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup shortening
- 1 egg yolk
- 5 tablespoons milk
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Blackberry Syrup
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the fresh blackberries, white sugar, water, butter, and cinnamon.
- Cook the Syrup: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the blackberries are soft and the syrup has thickened slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dumpling Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Cut in Shortening: Add the shortening to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or fork to cut it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk. Add this mixture to the flour mixture and stir until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Cook the Dumplings
- Drop Dumplings: Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering blackberry syrup. Be sure to space them out evenly.
- Cover and Cook: Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time, as the steam is necessary for the dumplings to cook properly.
Step 4: Serve
- Check Doneness: After 15 minutes, check the dumplings for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of one. If it comes out clean, the dumplings are done.
- Serve Warm: Serve the blackberry dumplin’s warm, either on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Cooking Notes
- Blackberry Substitutions: If fresh blackberries aren’t available, you can use frozen blackberries. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before using.
- Sweetness: Adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of your blackberries and personal preference.
- Dumpling Size: For larger dumplings, use a larger spoon to drop the dough into the syrup. For smaller dumplings, use a teaspoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other fruits for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute blackberries with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or even a mix of berries. The cooking method remains the same.
Q: How should I store leftover Blackberry Dumplin’s?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I make the dumpling dough ahead of time?
A: While it’s best to make the dough fresh, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of Grandma’s Blackberry Dumplin’s, follow these modifications:
- Sweetener: Replace the white sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
- Flour: Use almond flour or coconut flour in place of the all-purpose flour for the dumplings.
- Shortening: Substitute the shortening with coconut oil or butter.
Grandma’s Blackberry Dumplin’s is a timeless dessert that brings the flavors of summer to your table. The combination of sweet, juicy blackberries and soft, fluffy dumplings is simply irresistible. Perfect for sharing with family and friends, this recipe is sure to create lasting memories just as it has in countless homes before. Try this recipe today, and let us know how it turned out!
Did you enjoy Grandma’s Blackberry Dumplin’s? Share your experience and any variations you tried in the comments below! For more classic recipes and cooking tips, subscribe to our blog and follow us on social media. Happy cooking!
