“Chocolate Dumplings”

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INGREDIENTS

**For the Dough:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

**For the Filling:**
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

**For Serving:**
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
– Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional)

PREPARATION METHOD

1. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix well.
– In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
– Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough gently until smooth. Cover and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.

2. **Make the Filling:**
– In a small saucepan, combine the chocolate chips, heavy cream, and butter over low heat. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
– Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the filling cool slightly.

3. **Form the Dumplings:**
– Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Flatten each ball into a small disc.
– Place a small spoonful of the chocolate filling in the center of each disc. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal, forming dumplings.

4. **Cook the Dumplings:**
– Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil. Carefully drop the dumplings into the boiling water and cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until they float to the surface.

5. **Serve:**
– Using a slotted spoon, remove the cooked dumplings from the water and place them on a serving plate. Dust with powdered sugar.
– Serve the chocolate dumplings warm, optionally with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

Enjoy these indulgent Chocolate Dumplings as a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavor of cocoa with the sweetness of chocolate filling!