Hungarian Cottage Cheese Dumplings (Túrógombóc) – A Classic Comfort Dessert

Introduction

If you’re looking for a light, creamy, and slightly sweet dessert that’s easy to make yet full of comforting flavors, look no further than Hungarian Cottage Cheese Dumplings (Túrógombóc). These soft, pillowy dumplings made from túró (a type of fresh cheese similar to ricotta), eggs, and semolina are boiled until tender and then coated in buttery, golden-brown breadcrumbs.

A true staple in Hungarian cuisine, Túrógombóc is a beloved dish that many people associate with childhood and home cooking. Often served warm with sour cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar, this dish strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, making it an irresistible treat.

Whether you’re trying it for the first time or reliving fond memories of homemade Hungarian meals, this recipe will guide you through making the best Túrógombóc right in your own kitchen!

A Taste of Hungary: The History of Túrógombóc

Hungary is famous for its rich and diverse culinary traditions, and Túrógombóc has been a favorite for generations. The dish is often enjoyed as a dessert, but some Hungarians also serve it as a light main course for lunch or dinner.

The key ingredient, túró, is a mild and slightly tangy fresh cheese that is popular across Central and Eastern Europe. Similar to ricotta but with a slightly drier texture, túró is a staple in many Hungarian recipes, from sweet pastries to savory dishes.

This dish has been passed down through families, with each generation adding its own unique touch. Today, Túrógombóc remains a cherished dish, bringing comfort and nostalgia to many who grew up enjoying it.

Why You’ll Love Túrógombóc

Light and Fluffy: The dumplings have a delicate, airy texture that melts in your mouth.
Simple Ingredients: Made with cottage cheese, eggs, and semolina—no fancy ingredients needed!
Quick and Easy: The dough comes together in minutes, and the dumplings cook in under 10 minutes.
Versatile: Can be served as a dessert or a light meal, with toppings like sour cream, powdered sugar, or fruit preserves.

Now that you know why this dish is so special, let’s move on to the ingredients and step-by-step process!

Ingredients for Hungarian Cottage Cheese Dumplings (Túrógombóc)

For the Dumplings:

500g túró (Hungarian cottage cheese) or ricotta
2 eggs
5 tablespoons semolina
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Coating:

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons sugar (optional, for a sweeter coating)

For Serving:

Sour cream
Powdered sugar
Fruit preserves or honey (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Túrógombóc

Step 1: Prepare the Dumpling Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, eggs, semolina, sugar, vanilla extract, salt, and lemon zest (if using).
Mix everything until well combined, using a fork or a spoon to break up any large curds of cheese. The mixture should be soft but not too wet.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes. This allows the semolina to absorb moisture, which helps the dumplings hold their shape when cooked.

Step 2: Shape the Dumplings

Once the dough has rested, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
Take about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a smooth ball (about the size of a golf ball).
Place the formed dumplings on a plate or tray and continue until all the dough is used.

Step 3: Cook the Dumplings

Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil, adding a pinch of salt.
Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water one at a time.
Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer (not a rolling boil, as this can cause the dumplings to break apart).
Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the dumplings float to the surface. This is a sign that they are fully cooked.
Once they float, let them cook for another 1-2 minutes, then remove them with a slotted spoon and drain well.

Step 4: Prepare the Breadcrumb Coating

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the breadcrumbs and stir constantly until they turn golden brown and crispy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
For a sweeter version, stir in 2 tablespoons of sugar once the breadcrumbs are toasted.

Step 5: Coat the Dumplings and Serve

Roll the cooked dumplings in the buttery breadcrumbs until they are fully coated.
Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
For extra flavor, add fruit preserves, honey, or cinnamon on top.

Tips for the Perfect Túrógombóc

✅ Use the Right Cottage Cheese: Hungarian túró is ideal, but if you can’t find it, use ricotta cheese or well-drained cottage cheese. If your cottage cheese is too wet, strain it through a cheesecloth for a few hours.

✅ Chill the Dough: Letting the mixture rest ensures the dumplings hold their shape and don’t fall apart while cooking.

✅ Don’t Overcook the Dumplings: As soon as they float and cook for another 1-2 minutes, remove them. Overcooking can make them too dense.

✅ Toast the Breadcrumbs Properly: Keep stirring them in butter until golden brown. This step gives the dumplings a delicious crispy coating.

✅ Customize the Toppings: Some people enjoy them with cinnamon sugar, while others prefer fruit preserves or honey. Try different variations to find your favorite!