Hungarian Plum Dumplings Recipe (Szilvásgombóc)

Meta Title: Authentic Hungarian Plum Dumplings Recipe – Traditional Szilvásgombóc
Meta Description: Learn how to make Authentic Hungarian Plum Dumplings (Szilvásgombóc), a classic Hungarian dessert featuring tender potato dumplings filled with fresh plums and coated in buttery toasted breadcrumbs.
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Authentic Hungarian Plum Dumplings (Szilvásgombóc)

Hungarian Plum Dumplings, known as Szilvásgombóc, are one of Hungary’s most cherished homemade desserts. Made with a soft potato dough wrapped around juicy fresh plums, these tender dumplings are gently boiled and then rolled in buttery toasted breadcrumbs for a delicious combination of textures and flavors.

As the plums cook, they become sweet and juicy, creating a luscious filling that pairs beautifully with the delicate potato dough. Traditionally enjoyed during late summer and early autumn when plums are in season, Szilvásgombóc is a nostalgic comfort food served by Hungarian families for generations.

Whether enjoyed as a dessert, a sweet lunch, or a special seasonal treat, these dumplings offer an authentic taste of Hungarian home cooking.


Table of Contents

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

What Are Hungarian Plum Dumplings?

Szilvásgombóc are soft potato dumplings filled with whole fresh plums that are lightly sweetened with cinnamon sugar. After boiling, they’re coated in golden toasted breadcrumbs sautéed in butter, creating a wonderfully crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender.

Although plums are the traditional filling, Hungarian dumplings can also be made with apricots or other seasonal stone fruits.


The History of Szilvásgombóc

Potato dumplings have long been part of Central European cuisine, but Hungary developed its own beloved version using ripe local plums. Every autumn, families gather to prepare large batches using freshly harvested fruit, making Szilvásgombóc a symbol of seasonal cooking and family traditions.

Today, these dumplings remain a staple in Hungarian homes and are commonly served in traditional restaurants and countryside inns.


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Authentic Hungarian family recipe
  • Soft, fluffy potato dumplings
  • Sweet, juicy plum filling
  • Crispy buttery breadcrumb coating
  • Perfect seasonal dessert
  • Budget-friendly ingredients
  • Freezer-friendly

Ingredients

For the Potato 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 (prune plums)
  • ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Breadcrumb Coating

  • 1½ cups (150 g) plain breadcrumbs
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional)

For Serving

  • Powdered sugar
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Sour cream (optional)

Kitchen Equipment

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

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