Fluffy Cloud Drop Dumplings Recipe: Homestyle Comfort in Minutes

Have you ever craved a hearty southern drop dumplings recipe that brings comfort right to your plate?

Soft clouds of dough float gently in a rich, savory broth.

Grandmothers across the southern United States have perfected this rustic dish through generations of love and skill.

Each tender morsel melts seamlessly into the warm, inviting liquid surrounding it.

Traditional cooking methods blend simple ingredients into something truly magical.

Farmers and home cooks know these dumplings represent pure culinary warmth and satisfaction.

Come experience this delicious slice of southern comfort that promises to fill your kitchen with amazing aromas and memories.

FAQs

• What are drop dumplings?

Drop dumplings are soft, pillowy dough portions directly dropped into simmering liquid like soup or stew, creating a rustic, comforting addition to the dish.

• Can I make drop dumplings gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for best results.

• How do I know when drop dumplings are fully cooked?

The dumplings are done when they’ve expanded, appear fluffy, and look slightly puffy on the surface, typically after 10-15 minutes of cooking.

• What's the secret to tender drop dumplings?

Mix the batter gently and avoid overmixing, which can make the dumplings tough. Stir just until ingredients are combined for the most delicate texture.

Why Drop Dumplings Are So Delicious

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Ingredients for Drop Dumplings

• All-Purpose Flour: A staple ingredient that provides structure and thickness to the dumplings.
• Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps the dumplings rise and become light and fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dumplings.

• Milk: Adds moisture and helps bind the dumpling ingredients together.
• Melted Butter: Provides rich flavor and contributes to the tender texture of the dumplings.

• Soup or Stew: The liquid base in which the dumplings will be cooked, adding flavor and absorbing the surrounding broth.

How to Prepare Drop Dumplings

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they’re well blended and free of any lumps.

Step 2: Create Dumpling Batter

Pour milk into the dry ingredient mixture and add melted butter. Gently stir everything together until the ingredients just come together.

Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the dumplings tough.

Step 3: Add Dumplings to Simmering Liquid

Bring your favorite soup or stew to a gentle simmer.

Using a spoon, carefully drop dollops of the batter directly into the bubbling liquid. Space the dumplings slightly apart to prevent them from sticking together.

Step 4: Cook Dumplings

Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Let the dumplings steam and cook for 10-15 minutes.

During this time, the dumplings will puff up and become light and fluffy. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this can interrupt the cooking process.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

Gently pierce a dumpling with a fork or knife. If it comes out clean and the dumpling looks puffy and soft, they’re ready to serve.

The dumplings should have a light, pillowy texture that soaks up the delicious broth of your soup or stew.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup or stew into bowls, making sure each serving gets a few dumplings.

Serve hot and savor the comforting, homemade goodness of these classic drop dumplings.

Pro Tips for Drop Dumplings

• Use room temperature milk for smoother batter consistency and even mixing.
• Avoid overmixing the dumpling dough to prevent tough, dense results.
• Ensure soup or stew is gently simmering before adding dumpling batter for best texture.
• Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a dumpling – it should come out clean.
• For gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1: 1 gluten-free flour blend.

Flavor Variations for Drop Dumplings

• Herb-Infused Dumplings: Add chopped fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the dry ingredients for an aromatic herbal flavor that complements hearty soups and stews.
• Cheesy Comfort Dumplings: Mix in grated cheddar or parmesan cheese to create rich, savory dumplings that melt into the broth and add extra richness.
• Whole Wheat Rustic Dumplings: Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier texture and increased nutritional value that pairs well with vegetable-based soups.
• Cornmeal Crisp Dumplings: Substitute a quarter of the flour with cornmeal to introduce a subtle crunch and slightly sweet corn flavor that works perfectly with chicken or beef stews.

Serving Suggestions for Drop Dumplings

• Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup Companion: Nestle these tender drop dumplings directly into a steaming pot of classic chicken noodle soup for a comforting one-pot meal that warms the soul.
• Beef Stew Star: Transform a rich, slow-cooked beef stew by adding these pillowy dumplings on top, soaking up the savory gravy and creating a rustic, satisfying dinner that feels like a warm hug.
• Vegetable Medley Upgrade: Elevate a robust vegetable stew by dropping these light, fluffy dumplings into the pot, adding a delightful texture and making the dish more filling and luxurious for vegetarian comfort food lovers.

Storage Tips for Drop Dumplings

• Store cooked drop dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat in the microwave or warm soup to maintain their soft texture.
• Separate dumplings into single servings using freezer-safe containers. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 1 month, ensuring they're completely cool before storing.
• Place a paper towel inside the storage container to absorb excess moisture and prevent soggy dumplings. This trick helps maintain their original fluffy texture.
• Never leave drop dumplings at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth. Always refrigerate or consume immediately after cooking.

Drop Dumplings Recipe

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4.7 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Scrumptious drop dumplings from Southern kitchens offer comfort and warmth in a single bowl. Hearty broth and pillowy dough create a classic meal that connects home cooks with cherished culinary traditions.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup milk
• 2 tbsps melted butter
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt

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Instructions

1. Whisk dry ingredients – flour, baking powder, and salt – in a spacious mixing vessel to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
2. Create a soft, slightly lumpy batter by gently incorporating milk and melted butter, avoiding overmixing which can lead to tough dumplings.
3. Select a simmering soup or stew with gentle bubbling action, preparing a surface where dumplings can nestle comfortably.
4. Use a spoon to carefully drop uniform dollops of batter directly into the liquid, spacing them to allow individual expansion.
5. Securely cover the cooking vessel with a tight-fitting lid to trap steam and promote even cooking of the dumplings.
6. Maintain a low-medium heat around 180-190°F, allowing dumplings to steam and puff up for 12-15 minutes until they appear fluffy and fully cooked.
7. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a dumpling – it should emerge clean and free from raw batter.
8. Serve immediately, allowing dumplings to absorb the surrounding liquid’s rich flavors and maintaining their delicate, tender texture.

Notes

• Test batter consistency by ensuring it’s not too runny or thick; adjust milk or flour slightly for perfect texture.
• Avoid overmixing the dumpling batter to keep them light and tender, which prevents tough, dense results.
• Space dumplings evenly in the liquid to allow proper cooking and prevent sticking together during simmering.
• Transform recipe into gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with alternative like almond or gluten-free blend for dietary needs.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 200 kcal
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 375 mg
• Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg