Bisquick Dumplings with Water: 3 Easy Recipes

This Bisquick dumplings with water recipe comes from a trusted family favorite, passed down through generations of home cooks. It’s a versatile dish that always delights — whether it’s served at a cozy Sunday dinner, a holiday feast, or even a quick weeknight meal.

Best of all, these dumplings come together in minutes with just a couple of pantry staples! Also known as “drop dumplings” or “quick dumplings,” this dish has earned its place in kitchens across the country for its simplicity and comforting appeal.

Bisquick Dumplings with Water Recipe

Recipe by Calven ArlithCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

5

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

11

minutes

Calories per Serving

120

kcal

Total time

16

minutes

A simple, comforting recipe for fluffy Bisquick dumplings with water that pairs perfectly with soups, stews, or desserts. Quick to prepare and endlessly versatile!

Ingredients

• 2 cups Bisquick mix

• 2/3 cup water

• Optional: pinch of salt, herbs (like parsley or thyme), or 1 tsp vanilla extract for sweet variations

Directions

• In a mixing bowl, combine the Bisquick mix and water. Stir gently until the dough comes together—avoid overmixing.
• For savory dishes, bring your soup, stew, or broth to a gentle simmer. For boiling water dumplings, heat water in a pot until simmering.
• Drop spoonfuls of dough into the simmering liquid, spacing them evenly.
• Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes on low heat, avoiding lifting the lid too soon.
• Check for doneness by poking a dumpling—it should feel firm but springy. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• For sweeter dumplings: Add 1–2 tablespoons of sugar or honey and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough.
• For richer dumplings: Substitute water with milk or add an egg to the dough mixture.
• Avoid overmixing to keep the dumplings light and fluffy.
• These dumplings work well in slow cookers or baked dishes too.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about what you’ll need to make these delicious Bisquick dumplings with water. The beauty of this dish is its simplicity—you probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry. Here’s a quick rundown:

Essential Ingredients

• Bisquick mix: The star of the show! This pre-made mix saves time and ensures perfect results every time.
• Water: Yes, just plain water! It’s an easy substitute if you’re out of milk or looking for a lighter option.
• Optional add-ins: A pinch of salt, herbs like parsley or thyme, or even a splash of vanilla extract can elevate your dumplings.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or spatula for stirring
• Pot or skillet for cooking

Why Water Works

You might be wondering, can you use water instead of milk in dumplings? Absolutely! While milk adds richness, water keeps things light and simple. Plus, it’s a great option when you’re short on ingredients or aiming for a healthier twist.

Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you know what you need, let’s walk through how to make these Bisquick dumplings with water. Don’t worry—it’s super easy, even if you’re new to cooking. Follow these steps, and you’ll have fluffy dumplings ready in no time.

1. Mix Your Dough

Start by combining Bisquick mix and water in a mixing bowl. Use a spoon or spatula to stir until the dough comes together. Remember, how to avoid overmixing dumpling dough is key here—stop as soon as the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can make your dumplings tough.

2. Drop the Dumplings

For bisquick drop dumplings, scoop small spoonfuls of dough and gently drop them into your simmering soup, stew, or boiling water. They’ll puff up as they cook, so don’t overcrowd the pot.

3. Cook Gently

Keep the heat low and maintain a gentle simmer. This ensures your dumplings cook evenly without becoming dense. For tips for perfect dumpling consistency, resist the urge to lift the lid while they’re cooking. Let them do their thing!

4. Check for Doneness

After about 10-12 minutes, your dumplings should be light, fluffy, and cooked through. To test, poke one with a fork—it should feel firm but springy.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once done, serve your homemade dumplings with Bisquick in soups, stews, or as a standalone side dish. For extra flavor, add a touch of fresh herbs.

3 Simple Dumpling Recipes for Beginners

If you’re new to making dumplings, don’t worry—these three easy dumpling recipes are perfect for getting started. Each one uses Bisquick dumplings with water as the base, so they’re quick, simple, and foolproof. Let’s dive in!

1. Classic Bisquick Drop Dumplings

This is the ultimate beginner recipe. It’s versatile and works great in soups or stews.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups Bisquick mix
  • 2/3 cup water
  • Optional: pinch of salt or herbs
• Steps:
  1. Mix the Bisquick dough preparation by combining the mix and water.
  2. Drop spoonfuls into simmering chicken broth or stew.
  3. Cook on low heat for 10 minutes. Voila! Perfect bisquick chicken and dumplings.

2. Herb-Infused Dumplings

Add a burst of flavor with this variation. These bisquick herb dumplings are perfect for savory dishes.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups Bisquick mix
  • 2/3 cup water
  • 1 tsp dried parsley or thyme
• Steps:
  1. Stir the herbs into your water-based dumpling dough.
  2. Drop into a pot of vegetable stew or creamy soup.
  3. Simmer until fluffy and aromatic.

3. Sweet Vanilla Dumplings

Who says dumplings have to be savory? Try this sweet twist for dessert or breakfast.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups Bisquick mix
  • 2/3 cup water
  • 1 tbsp sugar or honey
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Steps:
  1. Add sugar and vanilla to your dough mixture.
  2. Drop into boiling water or serve with fruit compote.
  3. Enjoy these soft, sweet dumplings warm.

How to Avoid Overmixing Dumpling Dough

Overmixing is one of the common mistakes when making dumplings, but it’s easy to fix. Here’s why it matters and how to get it right every time.

Why Overmixing Is Bad

When you overmix Bisquick dough preparation, the gluten in the flour starts to develop too much. This can make your dumplings tough instead of light and fluffy. Nobody wants dense dumplings, right?

Signs You’re Overmixing

• The dough becomes sticky or stretchy.
• Your dumplings feel heavy after cooking.
• They don’t puff up as much during cooking.

Tips to Avoid Overmixing

1. Mix Just Until Combined: Stop stirring as soon as the dough comes together. A few lumps are okay!
2. Use a Light Touch: Stir gently with a spoon or spatula instead of kneading.
3. Don’t Second-Guess Yourself: Trust the process. If the ingredients are blended, you’re done.

What Happens When You Get It Right

When you avoid overmixing, your homemade dumplings with Bisquick will have the best texture—soft, fluffy, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Follow these dumpling cooking tips, and you’ll never go wrong.

Tips for Perfect Dumpling Consistency

Achieving the perfect texture for your Bisquick dumplings with water doesn’t have to be a mystery. With these simple tips, you’ll master best dumpling texture tricks in no time. Let’s break it down.

1. Keep the Heat Low

High heat can cause dumplings to cook too quickly on the outside while staying raw inside. For bisquick drop dumplings, always maintain a gentle simmer. This ensures even cooking and keeps them tender.

2. Don’t Peek Too Early

Lifting the lid too soon can disrupt the cooking process. Dumplings need time to steam and puff up. For bisquick chicken and dumplings or any stew, resist the urge to check until at least 8-10 minutes have passed.

3. Use the Right Water-to-Mix Ratio

Too much water makes the dough sticky, while too little makes it dry. Stick to a 2:1 ratio of Bisquick mix to water for the best results. Adjust slightly if needed, but don’t stray too far from this balance.

4. Add Flavor Without Overdoing It

A pinch of salt, herbs, or spices can enhance your dumplings without affecting their texture. Just make sure not to overmix when adding these extras—remember our earlier advice on how to avoid overmixing dumpling dough!

5. Test Before Serving

To ensure your dumplings are cooked through, gently poke one with a fork. It should feel firm but springy. If it’s still doughy inside, give them another minute or two.

Can You Use Water Instead of Milk in Dumplings?

Yes, absolutely! Using water instead of milk is a great option for making Bisquick dumplings with water. But let’s dig deeper into why this works so well.

Why Water Is a Great Substitute

• Simpler Ingredients: Not everyone has milk on hand, but water is always available.
• Lighter Texture: Water creates a fluffier dumpling compared to the richness of milk.
• Dietary Flexibility: Perfect for those avoiding dairy or looking for a low-calorie option.

When to Use Milk vs. Water

• Use milk if you want richer, creamier dumplings, especially for hearty dishes like bisquick chicken and dumplings.
• Use water for lighter, more versatile dumplings that pair well with soups, stews, or even sweet recipes.

How to Adjust the Recipe

If you’re swapping water for milk (or vice versa), the proportions stay the same. For example:

• Bisquick mix: 2 cups
• Liquid (water or milk): 2/3 cup

Mix as usual, and follow the same cooking steps. The result will be slightly different in flavor and texture, but equally delicious.

Pro Tip for Extra Flavor

Even when using water, you can boost flavor by adding a pinch of salt, herbs, or a splash of vanilla extract. These small touches make your water-based dumpling dough anything but plain.

Healthy Dumpling Recipes with Bisquick

Who says dumplings can’t be healthy? With a few tweaks, you can enjoy Bisquick dumplings with water while keeping things nutritious. These ideas are perfect for anyone looking to lighten up their meals without sacrificing flavor.

1. Whole Wheat Dumplings

Swap out regular Bisquick mix for a whole wheat version if available. This adds fiber and nutrients to your dumplings. Pair them with a vegetable-packed stew for a wholesome meal.

• Why It’s Healthy: Whole grains provide more fiber and keep you fuller longer.
• Pro Tip: Add grated carrots or zucchini to the dough for extra veggies!

2. Low-Calorie Herb Dumplings

These bisquick herb dumplings use minimal ingredients but pack a flavorful punch. Perfect for soups or broths.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups Bisquick mix
  • 2/3 cup water
  • Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives
• Why It’s Healthy: Fresh herbs add flavor without extra calories, making these dumplings light yet satisfying.

3. Sweet Fruit Dumplings

For a healthier dessert option, try these sweet dumplings served with fresh fruit instead of sugary syrups.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups Bisquick mix
  • 2/3 cup water
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Why It’s Healthy: Using natural sweeteners like honey and pairing with fresh fruits keeps this treat guilt-free.

Dumpling Variations with Bisquick Mix

The beauty of Bisquick dumplings with water is how versatile they are. You can adapt them to fit any dish or flavor profile. Here are some creative dumpling variations with Bisquick mix to inspire your next meal.

1. Cheesy Garlic Dumplings

Add shredded cheese and minced garlic to your dough for a savory twist. These pair perfectly with creamy soups or pasta dishes.

• How to Make Them:
  • Stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar and 1 tsp garlic powder into your dough.
  • Drop into simmering liquid and cook as usual.
• Why They’re Great: The gooey cheese and garlicky aroma take these dumplings to the next level.

2. Spiced Pumpkin Dumplings

Perfect for fall, these spiced dumplings bring warmth and sweetness to your table.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups Bisquick mix
  • 2/3 cup water
  • 2 tbsp canned pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Why They’re Great: The pumpkin adds moisture and pairs beautifully with cinnamon for a cozy flavor.

3. Savory Parmesan Herb Dumplings

These cheesy, herby dumplings are ideal for hearty stews or chicken dishes.

• How to Make Them:
  • Mix 1/4 cup grated Parmesan and 1 tsp dried herbs (like thyme or rosemary) into your dough.
  • Cook in broth or stew for added richness.
• Why They’re Great: Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements savory dishes beautifully.

4. Sweet Cinnamon Roll Dumplings

Turn your dumplings into a fun dessert by adding cinnamon and a drizzle of icing.

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups Bisquick mix
  • 2/3 cup water
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
• Why They’re Great: These dumplings mimic the flavors of cinnamon rolls without all the fuss.

Common Mistakes When Making Dumplings

Even the easiest recipes can trip you up if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes when making dumplings —and how to avoid them so your Bisquick dumplings with water turn out perfect every time.

1. Overmixing the Dough

We’ve already touched on this, but it’s worth repeating. Overmixing leads to tough, dense dumplings. Stick to gentle stirring and stop as soon as the dough comes together.

• Solution: Use a light hand and remember that lumps are okay!

2. Adding Too Much Liquid

Too much water makes the dough sticky and hard to work with. Stick to the recommended ratio of Bisquick mix to water (2:1) unless your recipe specifies otherwise.

• Solution: Measure carefully and adjust gradually if needed.

3. Boiling Instead of Simmering

High heat causes dumplings to cook unevenly or fall apart. Always keep the heat low and maintain a gentle simmer for bisquick drop dumplings.

• Solution: Keep an eye on the pot and adjust the heat as needed.

4. Lifting the Lid Too Soon

Opening the lid too early releases steam, which is essential for cooking fluffy dumplings. Patience is key here!

• Solution: Set a timer and resist checking until at least 8-10 minutes have passed.

5. Skipping Flavor Enhancers

Plain dumplings can be boring. Don’t forget to add herbs, spices, or other flavor boosters to make them stand out.

• Solution: Experiment with ingredients like garlic powder, cinnamon, or fresh herbs to elevate your dish.

Conclusion

There you have it—everything you need to master Bisquick dumplings with water! From simple recipes to tips for perfect texture, this guide has covered all the bases to help you create delicious dumplings with confidence.

Whether you’re whipping up a comforting batch of bisquick chicken and dumplings or trying a sweet twist with vanilla dumplings, these ideas are sure to impress.

FAQ

Can I use Bisquick dumplings in the oven?

Yes, you can! For baked dishes like casseroles or pot pies, prepare your dumpling dough as usual and drop spoonfuls on top of the filling. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown. These bisquick dumplings in oven recipes are a great way to switch things up.

How do I make Bisquick dumplings in a slow cooker?

For bisquick dumplings slow cooker recipes, simply drop the dough onto your simmering stew or soup in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours. The dumplings will steam and puff up beautifully.

Can I add eggs to my Bisquick dumplings?

Absolutely! Adding an egg to your dough creates richer, denser dumplings. For bisquick dumplings recipe with egg, mix 1 egg with 1/3 cup water and combine with 2 cups of Bisquick mix. This is a great option for heartier dishes.

Why are my dumplings dense instead of fluffy?

Dense dumplings often result from overmixing or using too much liquid. Stick to gentle stirring and measure your ingredients carefully. Also, ensure you’re cooking them at a low simmer—high heat can cause uneven cooking.

What’s the best way to store leftover dumplings?

Store cooked dumplings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in broth or sauce to keep them moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them dry.

Can I make Bisquick dumplings with water?

Yes, you can absolutely make Bisquick dumplings with water! Water is a simple and effective substitute for milk, especially if you’re aiming for lighter dumplings or don’t have milk on hand. Just mix Bisquick mix with water in a 2:1 ratio, and you’re good to go.

Can I use water instead of milk for dumplings?

Yes, water is a great alternative to milk when making dumplings. Using water simplifies the recipe and still produces soft, tender dumplings. Plus, it’s a handy option if you’re out of milk or want a dairy-free dish.

Can you boil dumplings in just water?

Absolutely! You can boil Bisquick dumplings directly in water if you’re not adding them to a soup or stew. Simply drop spoonfuls of dough into boiling water and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they float and are fully cooked through. This method is perfect for serving them as a side dish or dessert.

Share Your Experience

We’d love to hear how your Bisquick dumplings with water turned out! Did you try one of the recipes above, or did you come up with your own twist? Sharing your experience not only helps us improve but also inspires others to give these recipes a shot.