Kartoffelklöße (German Potato Dumplings) Recipe
Get German taste in your kitchen with Kartoffelklöße (German Potato Dumplings), fluffy, soft potato dumplings showered with browned butter and topped with crispy croutons. This Bavarian classic is tried by thousands worldwide, whether served alongside roasted meats, sausages, or rich stews. It’s one of the best choices for family dinners, meetings, gatherings, parties, or any other special event.
Why You’ll Love Kartoffelklöße (German Potato Dumplings) Recipe
- Authentic German Flavor – Traditional ingredients, just like in Bavaria.
- Versatile Pairing – Enjoy with browned butter, crispy bacon, sautéed onions, or mushroom sauce.
- Perfect for Celebrations – A must-have for Oktoberfest, Christmas dinners, and festive gatherings.
- Make-Ahead & Freezer Friendly – Prep the dough in advance for easy cooking later.
Recipe Time of German Potato Dumplings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Additional Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Servings: 8 (scale up as needed)
Ingredients For the Dumplings
Servings: 8
- 6 pounds russet potatoes
- 4 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 pinches freshly grated nutmeg (or to taste)
- 4 pinches cayenne pepper (or to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Servings: 16 (Double Batch)
- 12 pounds russet potatoes
- 8 large eggs
- 8 cups all-purpose flour
- 8 pinches freshly grated nutmeg
- 8 pinches cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Servings: 32 (Large Batch)
- 24 pounds russet potatoes
- 16 large eggs
- 16 cups all-purpose flour
- 16 pinches freshly grated nutmeg
- 16 pinches cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
For the Topping
- Unsalted butter (for a rich, nutty flavor)
- Fresh bread cubes (for crispy croutons)
- Fresh chives (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Potatoes
- Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold, salted water, and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes or until fork-tender.
- Drain and let cool until easy to handle.
Pro Tip: For a drier, fluffier texture, bake the potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 50 minutes instead of boiling.
2. Prepare the Croutons
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add bread cubes, stirring frequently, until golden brown and crispy (about 4–5 minutes).
- Transfer the croutons to a bowl, reserving the browned butter for later.
Pro Tip: Use day-old bread for the best texture—too fresh, and they’ll be soggy, stale, and too hard.
3. Make the Dumpling Dough
- Peel the cooled potatoes and place them in a large bowl.
- Mash until smooth, then season with nutmeg, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
- Add eggs and mix well.
- Gradually stir in flour until just incorporated. Do not overmix!
Pro Tip: Overmixing makes the dumplings dense and tough. Stir just until combined.
4. Shape the Dumplings
- Lightly wet your hands to prevent sticking.
- Scoop a spoonful of dough and shape it into a small disc.
- Place 2–3 croutons in the center.
- Gently seal and roll into a smooth ball.
5. Cook the Dumplings
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle simmer (avoid a rolling boil).
- Carefully drop in the dumplings—they will sink, then float after 1–2 minutes.
- Cover and simmer for 10 minutes, then flip and cook for another 10 minutes.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: A hard boil can break the dumplings apart. Keep the water at a gentle simmer for best results.
6. Serve & Garnish
- Drizzle with the reserved browned butter for extra richness.
- Sprinkle remaining croutons on top for a delicious crunch.
- Garnish with fresh chives for color and freshness.
Tips for Perfect Kartoffelklöße
✔ Use Starchy Potatoes – Russet potatoes create the fluffiest dumplings.
✔ Chill the Dough – Refrigerate for 30 minutes before shaping for better handling.
✔ Avoid Overcooking – Overboiling can make them mushy. Keep an eye on the clock!
✔ Freezing? – Freeze uncooked dumplings on a baking sheet, then store in a bag. Boil straight from frozen.
Serving Suggestions of German Potato Dumplings
- Traditional: Pair with roasted pork, sausages, or Sauerbraten.
- Vegetarian: Serve with sautéed mushrooms and a creamy sauce.
- Indulgent: Top with crispy bacon bits for extra flavor.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 272
- Fat: 13g
- Carbs: 33g
- Protein: 6g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
No its not recommended For right texture and flavor use fresh potatoes
Can I freeze Kartoffelklöße?
Yes! Freeze them uncooked and boil straight from frozen when ready.
What can I substitute for fresh bread cubes?
Store-bought croutons work, but fresh ones give the best texture.
Explore the Starbucks Menu: Coffees, Drinks, and More
For coffee lovers, the Starbucks menu offers a diverse selection of beverages, from rich and bold Starbucks coffees to refreshing and flavorful Starbucks drinks. Whether you’re craving a classic Caffè Americano, a creamy Caramel Macchiato, or a seasonal favorite like the Pumpkin Spice Latte, there’s something for everyone. The menu also includes refreshing iced teas, blended Frappuccinos, and dairy-free options to suit different tastes. With a variety of customizations available, Starbucks ensures every sip is just the way you like it. You can also pair German Potato Dumplings with your favorite Starbucks coffees and drinks.
