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Marillenknödel

Marillenknödel - Austrian National Food

A classic Austrian dessert, Marillenknödel, or apricot dumplings, reflects the tastes of the area. Usually derived from potatoes or quark, this Central European dish comprises ripe apricots wrapped in a soft dough and covered with toasted breadcrumbs. Because of its mix of tart and sweet, Marillenknödel is an excellent dessert for any season, but in the summer when apricots are in season, it is especially popular.

Marillenknödel

Recipe by Travel S HelperCourse: Dessert, SidesCuisine: AustrianDifficulty: Medium
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

200

kcal

Apricot dumplings, or Marillenknödel, are a classic Austrian dessert that blends sweet and sour flavors. Originating from Central Europe, it comprises soft dough derived from potatoes or quark and ripe apricots covered in toasted breadcrumbs. This meal is particularly popular during the summer, when apricots are in season. To make the dough, toss in a bowl the quark, flour, egg, softened butter, and salt. After washing and drying the apricots and removing the pits, gently round the dough around them. After ten to twelve minutes of boiling in salted water, the dumplings should float to the top. To another pan, toast the breadcrumbs, add the sugar and cinnamon, then melt the butter over medium heat. Evenly breadcrumb mix coats the dumplings. Present the dumplings warm; if preferred, serve melted butter or whipped cream alongside. Should quark not be available, substitute Greek yogurt or cottage cheese. You can reheat leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two days, but they taste best fresh. For most real taste, use ripe, locally grown apricots. A consoling gastronomic legacy, Marillenknödel brings a little bit of Austrian history onto your plate.

Ingredients

  • For the Dough
  • 250 g (9 oz) quark or farmer's cheese

  • 100 g (3.5 oz) all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)

  • 1 large egg

  • 30 g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened

  • A pinch of salt

  • For the Filling
  • 6 fresh ripe apricots

  • 6 sugar cubes (or 1 tsp sugar per apricot, optional)

  • For the Coating
  • 50 g (3.5 tbsp) unsalted butter

  • 100 g (1 cup) breadcrumbs

  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar

  • 1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Directions

  • Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine quark, flour, egg, softened butter, and a pinch of salt. Mix until a soft, pliable dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a bit more flour. Cover and let it rest for 15 minutes.
  • Prepare the Apricots: Wash and dry the apricots. Gently remove the pits by cutting them halfway open and inserting a sugar cube or a sprinkle of sugar in the center. Close the apricots carefully to maintain their shape.
  • Form the Dumplings: Dust your hands with flour. Divide the dough into six equal portions. Flatten each portion into a disk, place an apricot in the center, and wrap the dough around it completely, ensuring no gaps. Roll the dumpling in your hands to make it smooth.
  • Cook the Dumplings: Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and carefully drop in the dumplings. Cook for 10–12 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove with a slotted spoon.
  • Prepare the Coating: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add breadcrumbs and toast until golden brown. Stir in the sugar and cinnamon, if using.
  • Coat the Dumplings: Roll the cooked dumplings in the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated.
  • Serve: Arrange the dumplings on a plate and sprinkle with powdered sugar. Serve warm, optionally with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of melted butter.

Notes

  • Quark Substitution: If quark is unavailable, you can use cottage cheese (blended until smooth) or Greek yogurt.
  • Storage: These dumplings are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days and reheated.
  • Apricot Season: For the most authentic flavor, use ripe, locally sourced apricots.
Austrian National Food - World Of Food
World Of Food

Austrian National Food

Explore Austria's rich culinary heritage with iconic dishes like Wiener Schnitzel, Apfelstrudel, and Sachertorte. Dive into the flavors that define Austrian cuisine and its timeless traditions.

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