Golden Syrup Dumplings Recipe – Australian Special
Golden Syrup Dumplings are a classic, comforting dessert that’s beloved in Australia and parts of the UK. Soft, pillowy dumplings are cooked in a rich, sweet syrup made from golden syrup (a thick, amber-colored sugar syrup), creating a warm and indulgent treat. The dumplings are light and fluffy, and as they cook, they soak up the syrup, making them perfectly moist and tender. Topped with extra syrup or a dollop of cream, this simple yet delicious dessert is the perfect end to a cozy meal, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and texture.
- Prep Time5 min
- Cook Time15 min
- Total Time20 min
For the Dumplings:
- 1 1/2 cups self-raising flour (or plain flour with 2 tsp baking powder)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup caster sugar (or superfine sugar)
- 1/2 cup milk (plus extra if needed)
For the Syrup:
- 1 cup golden syrup (or you can substitute with light corn syrup)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup caster sugar (or superfine sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
To Serve (optional):
- Heavy cream, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream
How to make Golden Syrup Dumplings:
Prepare the dumplings:In a large mixing bowl, sift the self-raising flour and salt together. Add the cubed butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
Stir in the caster sugar, and then gradually add the milk. Mix until just combined to form a soft dough (add more milk if the dough feels too dry). Be careful not to overwork the dough.
Prepare the syrup:In a medium saucepan, combine the golden syrup, water, and sugar. Stir over low heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Bring the syrup to a gentle simmer and add the vanilla extract if using. Set the syrup aside on low heat while you prepare the dumplings.
Cook the dumplings:Using a spoon, drop heaping spoonfuls of the dumpling dough into the simmering syrup. The dumplings will puff up as they cook. Cover the pan with a lid and let the dumplings cook for about 15-20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time to ensure the dumplings cook evenly and steam properly.
The dumplings are done when they have expanded and are lightly golden on top.
Serve:Once the dumplings are cooked, use a slotted spoon to lift them from the syrup and place them on plates. Spoon the remaining syrup over the top, and serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or just extra syrup for a decadent treat.
Recipe Notes:
Flour:If you don’t have self-raising flour, you can use plain (all-purpose) flour with 2 teaspoons of baking powder added to help the dumplings rise.
Golden Syrup:Golden syrup is a key ingredient in this dish, giving it its signature flavor. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with light corn syrup, maple syrup, or a mixture of honey and sugar, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Serving Variations:This dessert is delicious on its own, but a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the sticky sweetness. You can also sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg over the dumplings for extra warmth and flavor.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the syrup ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat it before adding the dumplings.
