This blackberry dumplings recipe is one of those comforting desserts I always come back to when I want something warm, cozy, and nostalgic. I love how the berries break down into a rich, syrupy sauce while the dumplings cook up soft and tender right on top. It feels like a hug in a bowl and always reminds me of simple, homemade goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it uses simple pantry ingredients and comes together in one pot. I don’t need any fancy equipment, and the flavor payoff is huge. The balance between sweet-tart blackberries and fluffy dumplings makes it perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions. I also like that I can use fresh or frozen blackberries without changing the method.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the berry mixture:
1 quart fresh or frozen blackberries, rinsed
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
For the dumplings:
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons melted butter
Directions
I start by adding the blackberries, water, and sugar to a medium saucepan. I bring everything to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally, and let it simmer until the berries release their juices and the mixture turns syrupy.
While the berries simmer, I mix the flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. I stir in the milk and melted butter just until a soft dough forms, being careful not to overmix.
Once the blackberry mixture is bubbling, I drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough directly onto the hot berries. I reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the dumplings steam for about 12 to 15 minutes. I avoid lifting the lid while they cook so the dumplings stay light and fluffy.
I remove the pot from the heat once the dumplings are set and cooked through, then let everything rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
I sometimes swap half the blackberries for raspberries or blueberries when I want a mixed-berry version. If I want a warmer spice note, I add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the berry mixture. For a richer dumpling, I occasionally replace part of the milk with cream.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm individual portions gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. I add a small splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I use frozen blackberries?
I often use frozen blackberries, and they work just as well as fresh. I add them straight to the pot without thawing.
How do I know when the dumplings are done?
I check that the dumplings look puffed and no longer doughy in the center. A toothpick inserted into a dumpling should come out clean.
Can I reduce the sugar?
I sometimes cut the sugar slightly if my berries are very sweet, but I keep enough to balance the natural tartness.
What should I serve with blackberry dumplings?
I love serving them warm with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
I have made this with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and it works well as long as the blend contains a binder like xanthan gum.
Conclusion
This blackberry dumplings recipe is one of my favorite ways to turn simple ingredients into a deeply satisfying dessert. I love how easy it is to make and how comforting it feels every time I serve it. Whether I’m using fresh summer berries or frozen ones from the freezer, this dish always brings warmth and happiness to the table.
This warm and comforting blackberry dumplings recipe features sweet-tart berries cooked into a syrupy sauce with fluffy dumplings steamed right on top. It’s an easy, nostalgic dessert that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl.
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Ingredients
1 quart fresh or frozen blackberries, rinsed
1 cup water
1 cup sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, combine blackberries, water, and sugar. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Simmer the mixture until the berries release their juices and the liquid becomes syrupy.
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in milk and melted butter just until a soft dough forms.
Once the berry mixture is bubbling, reduce heat to low. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough directly onto the hot berry mixture.
Cover the pot and steam the dumplings for 12 to 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
Check that dumplings are cooked through by inserting a toothpick— it should come out clean. Remove from heat and let rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Do not lift the lid while the dumplings steam to keep them light and fluffy.
You can use fresh or frozen blackberries without changing the method.
Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream makes a great topping.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the berries for a spiced twist.
Replace part of the milk with cream for a richer dumpling.
