German Dumplings With Vanilla Sauce Recipe (Dampfnudeln)

Instructions

1. Step 1

   Gather the ingredients.

2. Step 2

   Dissolve the yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar in the warm water. Let the mixture stand 5 minutes or until bubbly.

3. Step 3

   In a large bowl, stir 1 tablespoon sugar, the lukewarm milk, 2 tablespoons melted butter and the salt until the sugar and salt have dissolved.

4. Step 4

   Add the bubbling yeast mixture to the milk mixture and then add 2 1/4 cups flour, beating until a smooth dough forms. Add more flour as necessary, until the dough can be formed into a soft ball.

5. Step 5

   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured board and knead for 5 minutes.

6. Step 6

   Lightly grease or spray a bowl and place the dough in it. Cover loosely and let the dough rise in a warm place until it has doubled, about 45 minutes.

7. Step 7

   Punch the dough down, divide it into 12 pieces, and shape the pieces into balls.

8. Step 8

   Place the balls 2 inches apart on a lightly oiled baking sheet, cover with a clean towel and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 45 minutes.

9. Step 9

   Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a 10-inch skillet or saucepan with a tight lid. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons sugar and the cold milk and bring to a boil.

10. Step 10

    Reduce the heat to low, arrange the dumplings in the saucepan, and cover.

11. Step 11

    Simmer for 25 minutes without peeking, then check the dumplings. If there is still liquid left in the pan, keep simmering a little longer until the dumplings have absorbed all the liquid. Remove from heat and keep warm until serving.

12. Step 12

    Serve warm, bottom-side up, with vanilla sauce and a tart fruit compote , if desired. Enjoy!