Bread Dumplings
AI-generated image
Vegetarian German

Bread Dumplings

Classic German bread dumplings made from stale rolls, warm milk, parsley, and onion. They simmer gently until tender and make an excellent partner for rich mushroom sauces, braised meats, and gravies.

55 min 4 servings Medium
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How to prepare

1
Place the bread cubes in a large bowl. Pour over the warm milk, toss gently, and let stand for 15 minutes, turning once, until the bread is softened but still holds its shape.
2
Melt 1 tablespoon of the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring, until translucent and lightly golden. Stir in the parsley and remove from the heat.
3
Add the onion mixture, beaten egg, salt, and pepper to the soaked bread. Mix with your hands or a wooden spoon until evenly combined; stop while a few small bread pieces remain visible. Rest for 5 minutes.
4
With damp hands, shape the mixture into 8 firm dumplings, about 5 cm wide. If the mixture feels wet, let it stand for 3 more minutes; if it feels crumbly, work in 1 tablespoon of milk.
5
Bring a wide pot of salted water to a boil, then reduce the heat until the water is barely simmering. Lower in the dumplings with a slotted spoon, leaving space between them.
6
Simmer uncovered for 18 to 20 minutes, turning the dumplings once, until they are puffed, firm to the touch, and hot through. The water should remain at a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil.
Bread dumplings gently simmering in a pot AI-generated image
7
Lift the dumplings out with a slotted spoon and drain briefly. Melt the remaining butter in the warm skillet, add the dumplings, and turn them gently to coat. Serve immediately.
Finished buttered German bread dumplings on a serving platter AI-generated image

Why this recipe works

Stale bread provides structure while warm milk softens the crumb, and the egg binds the mixture without making it heavy. Gentle simmering preserves a tender, cohesive texture.

Storage and reheating

How to store it

Refrigerate cooled dumplings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen, well wrapped, for up to 2 months.

How to reheat it

Reheat refrigerated dumplings by steaming for 8 to 10 minutes, or warm slices gently in a covered skillet with a splash of water. Thaw frozen dumplings overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition / serving

303kcal
10.27 gprotein
40.00 gcarbs
11.15 gfat
P
Pantryvale editorial kitchen
Recipe prepared for publication with complete ingredients and ordered cooking steps.
Published 9 Aug 2026 · updated 13 Aug 2026