Hungarian Plum Dumplings (Szilvásgombóc)

Authentic Hungarian Plum Dumplings Recipe (Szilvásgombóc)

Meta Title: Authentic Hungarian Plum Dumplings Recipe (Szilvásgombóc) – Traditional Hungarian Dessert

Meta Description: Learn how to make Authentic Hungarian Plum Dumplings (Szilvásgombóc), a beloved Hungarian dessert made with soft potato dough wrapped around fresh plums, coated in buttery toasted breadcrumbs, and dusted with cinnamon sugar.

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Authentic Hungarian Plum Dumplings (Szilvásgombóc)

Szilvásgombóc, or Hungarian Plum Dumplings, is one of Hungary’s most cherished traditional desserts. These soft potato dumplings are wrapped around juicy fresh plums, gently boiled until tender, then coated in buttery toasted breadcrumbs and finished with fragrant cinnamon sugar.

This comforting dessert is especially popular during late summer and early autumn, when plums are at their sweetest. In many Hungarian households, families gather to prepare large batches together, making Szilvásgombóc a nostalgic symbol of home cooking and seasonal traditions.

Whether served as a dessert, sweet main course, or afternoon treat, these delicious dumplings offer the perfect balance of fluffy potato dough, warm fruit filling, and crisp buttery crumbs.


Table of Contents

  • What Is Szilvásgombóc?
  • The History of Hungarian Plum Dumplings
  • Why You’ll Love This Recipe
  • Ingredients
  • Kitchen Equipment
  • Step-by-Step Instructions
  • Traditional Variations
  • Serving Suggestions
  • Expert Tips
  • Storage & Reheating
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Final Thoughts

What Is Szilvásgombóc?

Szilvásgombóc is a traditional Hungarian dessert made with:

  • Mashed potatoes
  • Flour
  • Eggs
  • Fresh plums
  • Butter
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Cinnamon sugar

Each plum is wrapped in soft potato dough, boiled until tender, and rolled in golden toasted breadcrumbs for a delicious contrast of textures.


The History of Hungarian Plum Dumplings

Potato dumplings have long been a staple of Central European cuisine, and Hungary developed its own beloved version by filling them with fresh seasonal plums. During plum harvest season, families traditionally prepare Szilvásgombóc using fruit from their gardens or local orchards.

Today, the dish remains one of Hungary’s favorite homemade desserts and is commonly enjoyed in homes, cafés, and traditional restaurants.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Authentic Hungarian family recipe
  • Soft, pillowy potato dough
  • Sweet and juicy plum filling
  • Crispy buttery breadcrumb coating
  • Perfect seasonal dessert
  • Freezer-friendly
  • Simple pantry ingredients

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 2 lbs (900 g) starchy potatoes (such as Russet), peeled
  • 1½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Filling

  • 8–10 small ripe Italian plums (or prune plums)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Breadcrumb Coating

  • 1 cup (100 g) plain breadcrumbs
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For Serving

  • Cinnamon sugar
  • Powdered sugar (optional)
  • Sour cream (optional)

Kitchen Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Potato masher or potato ricer
  • Mixing bowl
  • Large skillet
  • Slotted spoon
  • Rolling pin

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