Poppy Seed Cottage Cheese Dumplings (Traditional Slovak Šúľance)

Poppy seed cottage cheese dumplings are among the classic Slovak desserts that combine simplicity, softness, and the distinctive flavor of ground poppy seeds.
This recipe for tvarohové šúľance is a traditional favorite enjoyed all year round — as a sweet lunch, a light dinner, or a weekend dessert.

Cottage cheese.
Semolina.
Poppy seeds.
Butter.

Soft.
Buttery.
Homemade.

A version of how Slovak tradition tastes.

Why This Poppy Seed Cottage Cheese Dumplings Recipe Works

This recipe is built on balance of texture.

Cottage cheese provides moisture and tenderness.
Egg binds the dough.
Semolina creates delicate structure.
A small amount of flour ensures stability.

Poppy seeds and butter create contrast — nutty depth and silky richness.

The dumplings are not heavy.
They are not rubbery.
They are soft and naturally sweet.

Exactly as they should be.

Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

Classic Poppy Seed Cottage Cheese Dumplings

250 g fine curd cottage cheese (not creamy spread-style)
1 egg
70 g fine semolina
40–60 g all-purpose flour (as needed)
Pinch of salt

To Finish

100 g ground poppy seeds
3–4 tbsp powdered sugar
60 g butter

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

Mix the cottage cheese with the egg and a pinch of salt.

Add the semolina and flour.
Work into a soft but shapeable dough.

Let rest for 10–15 minutes so the semolina can absorb moisture.

2. Shape the Dumplings

Roll the dough into logs.
Cut into small pieces and shape into finger-length dumplings.

Work quickly to prevent the dough from becoming too soft.

3. Cook

Place the dumplings into gently boiling salted water.

Once they float to the surface, cook for another 1–2 minutes.
Remove with a slotted spoon.

4. Finish

Brown the butter lightly until it develops a nutty aroma.

Mix the poppy seeds with powdered sugar.

Toss the cooked dumplings in the poppy seed mixture and drizzle with brown butter.

Serve immediately.

Tip: Plum Purée

Poppy seed cottage cheese dumplings pair beautifully with slightly tart plum purée.

Simple Plum Purée

400 g ripe plums
1–2 tbsp sugar (depending on sweetness)
1 tsp lemon juice
2 tbsp water

Simmer the plums for 10–15 minutes until soft.
Blend until smooth.

Serve warm or slightly chilled as a contrast to the poppy seeds.

The natural acidity of plums enhances the sweetness of poppy seeds and butter.

Serving Suggestions

These dumplings taste best:

With plum purée
With an extra spoon of melted butter
With lightly toasted nuts
With a pinch of lemon zest

Drink Pairing

Wine

Off-dry Riesling
Muscat
Tokaji wine

Non-Alcoholic

Milk
Black tea
Fresh apple cider

TGCC Upgrade (Optional)

To elevate these poppy seed cottage cheese dumplings:

• Add finely grated lemon zest to the dough.
• Brown the butter deeply for extra nuttiness.
• Add a pinch of vanilla to the poppy seed mixture.
• Serve with plum purée and lightly toasted almond flakes.

Simple ingredients.
Deep flavor.

Recipe Details

Type: Dessert / Sweet Main Course
Cuisine: Slovak
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: approx. 30 minutes
Servings: 3–4
Best For: Family lunch, weekend dessert, traditional table