Egg Cream Dumplings

Featured in breakfast-brunch.

Hey there! You've got to try these incredible egg cream dumplings! Just look at that perfect runny yolk spilling out from the center - isn't that mouthwatering? The contrast between the crispy golden exterior, the creamy cheese filling, and that luscious yolk makes these irresistible. The breadcrumb topping adds such a nice texture too. These are actually easier to make than they look, and they'll definitely impress at your next brunch. The best part is cutting into them and watching that golden yolk create an instant sauce. Trust me, these are a game-changer!

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Updated on Thu, 06 Mar 2025 20:17:18 GMT
Crispy golden dumplings filled with cream cheese and runny egg yolk, topped with breadcrumbs pin it
Crispy golden dumplings filled with cream cheese and runny egg yolk, topped with breadcrumbs | lonerecipes.com

I discovered these incredible egg-filled dumplings during a trip to Eastern Europe, where a local grandmother showed me her closely guarded family recipe. The moment I bit into one, with its crispy exterior giving way to creamy cheese and that perfectly runny yolk, I knew I had to master making them myself. What makes these dumplings special is the contrast of textures - from the slight chew of the dough to the smooth cream cheese and the liquid gold center. I was intimidated at first, thinking the technique would be complicated, but after a few attempts, I found it's all about handling the dough gently and maintaining the right temperature for the eggs. Now they've become my signature dish for impressing guests at brunch gatherings.

Why I love this recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms simple ingredients into something truly spectacular. There's something magical about cutting into these dumplings and watching the golden yolk create an instant sauce. They remind me that cooking is both an art and a science - getting that yolk perfectly runny requires precision, while the presentation offers endless creative possibilities. This dish also connects me to culinary traditions that have been perfected over generations. I appreciate how the recipe balances richness with texture, making each bite interesting and satisfying. The fact that guests always gasp with delight when they cut into them makes them a joy to serve. Despite looking impressive, they're actually quite forgiving to make once you understand the basic technique, which makes them all the more special in my recipe collection.

What You Need From Your Kitchen

  • All-purpose flour: Forms the elastic dough that will hold the filling
  • Cream cheese: Creates a creamy base that complements the egg yolk
  • Eggs: Provide protein and create the luscious runny center
  • Breadcrumbs: Add essential crunch and golden color to the exterior
  • Fresh herbs: Infuse the dumplings with subtle aromatic flavors
  • Butter: Enriches the dough and enhances tenderness

Let's Make These Together

Prepare the dough
Start with a simple dough by combining flour, softened butter, salt, and water. The key is to mix just until combined and then let it rest. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the dough more pliable and easier to work with when rolling it out.
Create the filling
Mix cream cheese with fresh herbs until smooth and creamy. The herbs not only add flavor but beautiful flecks of color throughout the filling. Be sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing and spreading.
Handle egg yolks with care
Separate eggs, keeping the yolks intact. Work near your assembly area so you can quickly transfer the yolks without breaking them. Having individual small bowls for each yolk makes this process much easier.
Assembly technique
Roll out dough and cut into circles, then create a nest of cream cheese with a well in the center for the yolk. When folding the dough over, work from one side to the other, gradually sealing to avoid air pockets that could burst during cooking.
Perfect cooking method
Cook over medium heat in a high-quality non-stick pan. Monitor the temperature carefully – too high and the outside will burn before the dough cooks; too low and the dumplings will absorb too much oil and become soggy.
Recipe picture pin it
Homemade egg dumplings with creamy cheese filling and crunchy topping | lonerecipes.com

Switch Things Up

The first time I made these dumplings, I was nervous about getting the egg yolk just right. I discovered that the key is to work quickly once you've separated the yolks from the whites. I like to keep the yolks in individual small bowls before using them, which makes the assembly process much smoother. Over time, I've experimented with different herbs in the dough and filling - dill works wonderfully for a more pronounced flavor. Sometimes I add a touch of lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture for brightness, which pairs beautifully with the richness of the egg.

Perfect Pairings

These Egg Cream Dumplings pair beautifully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For brunch, serve alongside crispy bacon or roasted cherry tomatoes on the vine. If serving as a light dinner, accompany with a glass of chilled Prosecco or a light white wine like Pinot Grigio. They also go wonderfully with a side of sautéed spinach with garlic or roasted asparagus when in season. The dumplings themselves are rich, so simple, bright accompaniments work best to balance the meal.

Delicious breakfast dumplings with perfect runny yolk center and crispy exterior pin it
Delicious breakfast dumplings with perfect runny yolk center and crispy exterior | lonerecipes.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these dumplings ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dumplings up to the breadcrumb coating stage and refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before cooking. For best results with the runny yolk, avoid making them too far in advance.

→ How do I know when they're perfectly cooked?

The exterior should be golden brown and crispy, which usually takes 3-4 minutes per side. The center should still be warm but not hot enough to fully cook the yolk, which should remain runny.

→ Can I freeze these dumplings?

Unfortunately, these dumplings don't freeze well due to the raw egg yolk center. They're best enjoyed fresh after preparation.

→ What's the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, but note that the yolk will no longer be runny. The dumplings will still be delicious but will have a different texture.

→ Can I substitute the cream cheese with another type of cheese?

Yes, ricotta cheese works well as a substitute, though it creates a slightly different texture. You could also use mascarpone for a richer result.

→ Are there any variations for dietary restrictions?

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different, but the recipe will still work. Unfortunately, there isn't a good vegan substitute for the egg yolk which is central to this recipe.

Conclusion

These Egg Cream Dumplings are a delightful twist on traditional dumplings, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crispy exterior gives way to a creamy cheese filling, and when you cut into it, the runny egg yolk creates a natural sauce that's simply divine. They're impressive enough for special occasions but simple enough for a weekend treat. The golden breadcrumb topping adds a wonderful crunch that complements the soft filling beautifully.

Egg Cream Dumplings

Delicate dumplings filled with rich cream cheese and topped with a golden yolk that creates a luscious sauce when broken.

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
45 Minutes
By: chris

Category: breakfast-brunch

Difficulty: intermediate

Cuisine: Eastern European

Yield: 6 Servings (6 balls)

Dietary: Vegetarian, High Protein

Ingredients

012 cups all-purpose flour
023 tablespoons butter, softened
031/2 cup water
041/2 teaspoon salt
058 oz cream cheese, softened
066 large eggs
071 cup breadcrumbs
082 tablespoons fresh herbs (chives, parsley), finely chopped
092 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add softened butter and work it into the flour until crumbly. Gradually add water and knead until a smooth, elastic dough forms. Cover and rest for 30 minutes.

Step 02

In a medium bowl, mix cream cheese with chopped herbs, salt, and pepper until smooth. Carefully separate 6 eggs, keeping yolks intact in individual small bowls. Mix 2 of the egg whites into the cream cheese mixture.

Step 03

Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch circles. Place a tablespoon of cream cheese mixture in the center of each circle. Carefully create a well in the center of the cheese.

Step 04

Gently slide an egg yolk into the well of each dumpling. Carefully fold the dough over to enclose filling and yolk, sealing edges firmly by crimping with a fork or pleating.

Step 05

Brush dumplings with remaining beaten egg whites. Coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Refrigerate for 15 minutes to firm up.

Step 06

Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook dumplings for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Serve immediately while the centers are still warm and runny.

Notes

  1. For best results, ensure eggs are at room temperature before separating.
  2. If the dough seems too dry, add water one teaspoon at a time until it comes together.
  3. Work quickly when handling the egg yolks to prevent them from breaking.
  4. The dumplings can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 hours before cooking.
  5. For a lighter version, the dumplings can be baked at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes instead of pan-frying.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Rolling pin
  • 4-inch round cookie cutter or glass
  • Non-stick skillet
  • Small bowls for separating eggs
  • Pastry brush

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Eggs (main ingredient)
  • Dairy (cream cheese, butter)
  • Wheat (flour, breadcrumbs)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 18 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 24 g
  • Protein: 15 g

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