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Dampfnudel (German Sweet Dumpling)

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Dampfnudel is a traditional German sweet dumpling, steamed to perfection and served with a rich vanilla custard sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for dessert or as a special treat, offering a soft, fluffy texture that pairs beautifully with custard or fruit compote.

Ingredients

For Vanilla Sauce:

½ cup milk

½ cup heavy cream (double cream)

1 egg yolk

2 tablespoons sugar

½ vanilla pod

1 teaspoon cornstarch (corn flour)

For Dampfnudel (Dumplings):

½ cup milk

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon instant dried yeast

¼ teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons sugar

1 egg

For Cooking Dampfnudel:

5 tablespoons milk

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vanilla Sauce:
    • In a small pan, combine the milk, cream, and sugar. Split the vanilla pod and scrape the seeds into the milk mixture, then add the pod as well. Heat over medium-low heat until it nearly simmers, stirring occasionally.
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually add a spoonful of the warm milk mixture to temper the egg, then slowly add the rest.
    • Return the mixture to the pan and gently heat until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
  2. Make the Dampfnudel Dough:
    • Gently warm the milk and butter until the butter melts. If it’s too hot, allow it to cool slightly.
    • In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Add the milk-butter mixture and egg, stirring until the dough comes together.
    • Knead the dough on a floured surface for a couple of minutes until smooth. Shape it into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover and let it rise for about an hour.
  3. Shape the Dumplings:
    • Punch down the dough and divide it into four pieces. Roll each piece into a ball by pinching the sides and rounding the dough in your hands.
    • Place the dumplings, seam side down, in a lightly greased pan or on a baking sheet. Cover and let them rise for another hour.
  4. Cook the Dampfnudel:
    • In a large pan, combine the milk, butter, and sugar for the steaming liquid. Heat until the sugar dissolves.
    • Carefully place the dumplings in the pan and cover. Steam over low heat for 20-25 minutes, ensuring there’s still some liquid in the pan.
    • Once the dumplings are golden, remove the lid and cook for another couple of minutes without the cover to let them brown slightly.
  5. Serve:
    • Serve the Dampfnudel warm, topped with the vanilla sauce. For extra flavor, you can also add fruit compote or jam of your choice.

Notes

Add fruit compote or a dollop of jam for extra sweetness and flavor.

For a vegan version, use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a non-dairy custard alternative.

Sprinkle the dumplings with cinnamon sugar before serving for an extra touch of flavor.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://chocolatecoveredamy.com/dampfnudel-german-sweet-dumpling/