Small Plum Dumplings with Soft Quark Dough for Kids

A Wonderful Autumn Dish

These small plum dumplings are a wonderful autumn dish for children aged three and up. The soft quark dough is easy to chew, while the fruity filling offers an exciting flavor experience. Shaping the dumplings together is a lot of fun for many children and supports fine motor skills along the way.

Ingredients for 2 to 3 Portions

• 250 g quark (or full-fat ricotta)
• 1 egg (medium)
• 80 g wheat semolina
• 40 g flour (wheat or spelt)
• 1 tbsp soft butter
• 8 small plums (washed and pitted)
• Optional: 1 small pinch of cinnamon
• For rolling: 2 tbsp breadcrumbs, 1 tbsp butter

Preparation in Simple Steps

1. Knead the quark, egg, semolina, flour, and soft butter in a bowl until a smooth dough forms. Let the dough rest for about 15 minutes so the semolina can expand.
2. Wash and halve the plums, removing the pits. If you like, add a tiny pinch of cinnamon to the center of the plums.
3. With lightly floured hands, take small portions of the dough and press them flat. Place a half or whole small plum inside and seal the dough well until smooth dumplings are formed.
4. Bring a large pot of water to a gentle simmer, it must not boil vigorously. Drop the dumplings in and let them steep for about 10 to 12 minutes until they float to the surface.
5. Melt the butter in a small pan and toast the breadcrumbs until golden brown. Lift the finished dumplings out of the water with a slotted spoon, let them drain, and roll them in the breadcrumbs.
6. Always let them cool down and check the temperature inside the dumplings before serving.

Variations and Practical Tips

Fruity alternatives: Instead of plums, small apple pieces or apricot halves also fit perfectly into the dough.

Storage: The cooked dumplings keep for about two days in the fridge when covered. They also freeze beautifully uncooked and can be dropped directly into hot water when needed.

For the family: Adults can enhance their portion with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a bit more cinnamon.

Allergy Information and Safety

This recipe contains wheat (gluten), egg, and dairy (quark, butter). Always introduce new ingredients one at a time and in small amounts to easily observe any reactions. The plums get very hot on the inside during cooking, making a careful temperature check essential before eating. If you have any concerns regarding your child's diet, please consult your pediatrician.

Valuable Nutrients for the Day

The quark provides valuable protein and calcium for bone development. Plums bring natural dietary fibers that gently support digestion. Additionally, this dish offers long-lasting energy for active afternoons outdoors.