Steamed Rose Dumplings are a delicate and visually stunning dessert made with soft glutinous rice dough and a sweet red bean paste filling. These handcrafted dumplings resemble blooming roses, with their thin, petal-like layers and subtle pink hue. Soft, chewy, and slightly sweet, they make a perfect centerpiece for special occasions or a unique treat to impress guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Beautiful and Elegant – These dumplings are shaped like roses, making them a stunning dessert or snack.
- Soft and Chewy Texture – The glutinous rice flour and tapioca flour create a delightfully chewy consistency.
- Customizable Filling – Choose from red bean paste, sweetened sesame paste, or even chocolate.
- Naturally Colored Option – Use beet juice instead of food coloring for a natural pink hue.
- Perfect for Special Occasions – These dumplings make a gorgeous treat for celebrations, tea parties, or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 cup glutinous rice flour
- ¼ cup tapioca flour
- ½ cup warm water
- 2 tbsp sugar
- Pink food coloring (or beet juice)
- ½ cup sweet red bean paste (or filling of choice)
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine glutinous rice flour, tapioca flour, sugar, and warm water. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough until smooth and pliable. If desired, add pink food coloring or beet juice to achieve a soft pink shade.
- Divide the dough into small portions and roll each into a thin, circular shape.
- Arrange four or five circles in an overlapping row to form a petal-like pattern.
- Place a small amount of red bean paste (or chosen filling) in the center.
- Gently roll the dough from one end to the other, creating a rose shape. Pinch the base to secure the shape.
- Place the dumplings in a steamer lined with parchment paper.
- Steam for 10–12 minutes until the dumplings turn soft and slightly translucent.
- Serve warm on a beautiful dish and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6–8 dumplings
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
Variations
- Matcha Green Rose Dumplings: Add 1 tsp matcha powder to the dough for a natural green hue.
- Chocolate Filling: Use a rich chocolate ganache or Nutella instead of red bean paste.
- Coconut Rose Dumplings: Fill with sweetened coconut and palm sugar for a tropical twist.
- Fruit-Infused Dough: Use blueberry, raspberry, or dragon fruit juice for a naturally colored dough.
- Savory Version: Replace the sweet filling with minced mushrooms or seasoned tofu for a unique savory dumpling.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Place uncooked dumplings on a tray and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a bag and store for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Steam refrigerated or frozen dumplings for 5–7 minutes until soft and warm.
FAQs
Can I use regular rice flour instead of glutinous rice flour?
No, glutinous rice flour is essential for the chewy texture of these dumplings. Regular rice flour will result in a firmer, less elastic dough.
How do I prevent the dough from drying out?
Cover the dough with a damp cloth while shaping the dumplings to keep it soft and pliable.
Can I make these dumplings without food coloring?
Yes, beet juice, dragon fruit juice, or hibiscus tea can naturally tint the dough pink.
What other fillings can I use?
Try lotus seed paste, peanut butter, black sesame paste, or fruit preserves for different flavors.
How do I make the dumplings hold their rose shape?
Ensure the dough is rolled thin enough to create delicate petals and pinch the base firmly after shaping.
Can I pan-fry these dumplings instead of steaming?
Yes, but steaming preserves their soft and chewy texture. If pan-frying, use a non-stick pan and cook over low heat until lightly golden.
What is the best way to serve these dumplings?
They are best enjoyed warm with a cup of tea, honey drizzle, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Can I make these dumplings ahead of time?
Yes, you can shape them in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to steam.
Are these dumplings gluten-free?
Yes, glutinous rice flour and tapioca flour are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
Can I make mini rose dumplings for a tea party?
Yes, simply use smaller circles of dough and less filling to create bite-sized versions.
Conclusion
Steamed Rose Dumplings are an elegant and delicious treat that combines artistry with traditional flavors. Their soft, chewy texture and delicate floral appearance make them perfect for special occasions or as a unique homemade dessert. Whether filled with classic red bean paste or a creative alternative, these dumplings are sure to impress!
