🍽️ Homemade Cracker Barrel-Style Dumplings
📝 Ingredients (for about 4 servings)
For the dumplings:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 tsp baking powder
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1/2 tsp salt
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2 tbsp butter (cold, cubed)
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3/4 cup whole milk (or more as needed)
For the broth (optional if making dumplings only):
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4 cups chicken broth (or water + bouillon)
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2 tbsp butter
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Salt & pepper to taste
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Make the dumpling dough:
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In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Cut in the cold butter using your fingers or a pastry cutter until crumbly.
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Stir in milk gradually until a soft dough forms. (It should be moist but not sticky. Add a splash more milk if too dry.)
2. Roll out and cut:
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On a floured surface, roll the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
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Cut into 1-inch by 2-inch strips or small squares using a knife or pizza cutter.
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Let rest for 5–10 minutes while you heat the broth.
3. Simmer in broth:
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In a large pot, bring chicken broth and butter to a gentle boil.
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Drop in dumplings one at a time, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
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Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Dumplings will puff slightly and thicken the broth.
4. Serve:
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve warm as-is or with shredded chicken for a full chicken and dumplings dish.
🔁 Optional Add-Ins
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Add cooked shredded chicken to make a full Cracker Barrel Chicken & Dumplings meal.
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Stir in a splash of cream or milk at the end for a creamier broth.
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Toss in a pinch of thyme or poultry seasoning for more flavor.
🥄 Tips
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Don’t over-knead the dough — mix just until it comes together for tender dumplings.
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The thinner you roll them, the more “authentic” they’ll feel (Cracker Barrel’s are quite thin and soft).
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These dumplings store well! Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water.
Would you like the full Chicken & Dumplings version too?
