Who can resist the allure of a steaming bowl of Cracker Barrel dumplings? These delectable morsels of comforting warmth are perfect for satisfying cravings and filling you up with their hearty goodness.

Cracker Barrel Dumplings
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If you love Chicken Dumplings Cracker Barrel, you will love this easy recipe! Smothered with the iconic chicken gravy, you will love this as a tasty side dish or a savory treat!

Interestingly, at the restaurant, these dumplings are served without chicken when ordered as a side dish. However, if you prefer, you can easily enhance them by adding some cooked shredded chicken, transforming them into homemade chicken and dumplings.

Cracker Barrel Dumplings

Cracker Barrel Dumplings are a beloved comfort food classic known for their fluffy texture and rich flavor. These dumplings are made from scratch using simple ingredients like flour, butter, and milk, creating a pillowy-soft base for the hearty gravy they’re often served with. The dish is reminiscent of down-home Southern cooking, evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia with every bite.

At Cracker Barrel, the dumplings are traditionally served without chicken, making them a popular side dish option. However, they can easily be turned into a complete meal by adding cooked shredded chicken to create homemade chicken and dumplings.

The sweet taste of Southern Dumplings!

Cracker Barrel Dumplings

Ingredients Needed For Cracker Barrel Dumplings

Here are the simple ingredients needed for making Copycat Cracker Barrel Dumplings.

Cracker Barrel Dumplings

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

  • Flour: All-purpose flour forms the base of the dumpling dough, providing structure and texture.
  • Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Both help the dumplings rise and become light and fluffy during cooking.
  • Salt: Salt enhances the flavor of the dumplings and balances the other ingredients.
  • Milk: Buttermilk or whole milk is used to bring the dough together and create a smooth consistency.
  • Butter: Melted butter helps keep the dumplings moist and fluffy.
  • Cooked Shredded Chicken (optional): If you’re making chicken and dumplings, cooked shredded chicken is added to the dish for protein and flavor.
  • Seasonings (such as black pepper and thyme): Seasonings add additional flavor to the dumplings and gravy, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

How To Make Cracker Barrel Dumplings

To make Cracker Barrel Dumplings, follow these steps:

Cracker Barrel Dumplings

Dough Preparation: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually pour in the milk (or buttermilk) and melted butter, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Cracker Barrel Dumplings

Shape the Dumplings: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Using a knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into 2-inch squares.

Cracker Barrel Dumplings

Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 350 degrees F, for 3-5 minutes.

Cracker Barrel Dumplings

Cooking: Place the dumplings in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, flipping the dumplings halfway through for even cooking.

Serve: Remove the dumplings from the air fryer and serve warm. They pair exceptionally well with chicken gravy or any sauce of your choice.

Cracker Barrel Dumplings

Pro Tips Homemade Cracker Barrel Dumplings

Here are some pro tips for making homemade Cracker Barrel Dumplings:

  • Chill the Dough: After mixing the dough, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before rolling it out. This helps relax the gluten and makes the dough easier to handle.
  • Use a Sharp Knife: When cutting the rolled-out dough into squares or strips, use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter for clean, precise cuts. This ensures uniform dumplings that cook evenly.
  • Add Seasonings: Enhance the flavor of the broth by adding seasonings such as black pepper, garlic powder, or dried herbs like thyme or parsley. This adds depth of flavor to the dumplings and the broth.
  • Test for Doneness: To check if the dumplings are cooked through, insert a toothpick or fork into the center of a dumpling. If it comes out clean with no doughy residue, the dumplings are ready.
  • Let Them Rest: Once the dumplings are cooked, let them rest in the broth for a few minutes before serving. This allows them to absorb more flavor from the broth and ensures they stay moist and tender.
Cracker Barrel Dumplings

More Copycat Cracker Barrel Recipes

Faqs Cracker Barrel Dumplings

Are Cracker Barrel Dumplings vegetarian-friendly? Cracker Barrel Dumplings are typically made with chicken broth, so they are not vegetarian. However, you can make a vegetarian version by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I freeze leftover Cracker Barrel Dumplings? Yes, you can freeze leftover Cracker Barrel Dumplings for future enjoyment. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

How do I reheat Cracker Barrel Dumplings without drying them out? To reheat leftover Cracker Barrel Dumplings, place them in a saucepan with a little extra chicken broth or water to prevent them from drying out. Heat over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Can I make Cracker Barrel Dumplings gluten-free? Yes, you can make gluten-free Cracker Barrel Dumplings by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, such as baking powder and broth, are also gluten-free.

What are some serving suggestions for Cracker Barrel Dumplings? Cracker Barrel Dumplings can be served as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, pork chops, or beef roast. They can also be served as part of a classic dish like chicken and dumplings, where cooked shredded chicken is added to the broth along with the dumplings.

Cracker Barrel Biscuits

Do you love Cracker Barrel? Try these copycat recipes!

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Cracker-Barrel-Dumplings

Copycat Cracker Barrel Dumplings

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Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings

Description

Homemade Copycat Cracker Barrel Dumplings are amazing! The air fryer does an amazing job at cooking them to perfection!

Ingredients 

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup milk or buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually pour in the milk (or buttermilk) and melted butter, stirring until a soft dough forms.
  • On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Using a knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into 2-inch squares.
  • Set the air fryer to 350 degrees F, preheat for 3-5 minutes.
  • Place the dumplings in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, flipping the dumplings halfway through for even cooking.
  • Remove the dumplings from the air fryer and serve warm. They pair exceptionally well with chicken gravy or any sauce of your choice.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cooking Spray
  • Parchment Paper, optional

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 153kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 4gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 143mgPotassium: 69mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 125IUCalcium: 48mgIron: 1mg

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