Golden Syrup Dumplings Recipe – Australian Special
Golden Syrup Dumplings are a classic Aussie dessert, featuring fluffy dumplings gently simmered in a sweet, caramel-like syrup that soaks into each tender bite. It’s the ultimate nostalgic comfort food—simple to make, budget-friendly, and irresistibly satisfying, especially when served warm with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of cream.
- 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:
Cook the syrup and dumplings over a gentle simmer only—vigorous boiling can break the dumplings or make them tough.
Use soft self-raising flour to achieve light and fluffy dumplings; avoid overmixing the dough.
These are best when you serve immediately, while warm and syrupy.
To reheat gently, place leftovers with a splash of water or extra syrup in a saucepan or microwave; warm slowly to preserve texture.
