Oven-Baked Dumplings with Peanut Sauce – Crispy, Nutty, and Full of Flavor

Oven-Baked Dumplings with Peanut Sauce – Crispy, Nutty, and Full of Flavor

These Oven-Baked Dumplings with Peanut Sauce combine crisp, golden dumplings with a rich, creamy, and slightly spicy peanut dipping sauce. This recipe offers all the deliciousness of traditional pan-fried dumplings but without the extra oil and fuss. Baking gives them a perfect crunch while keeping the filling juicy inside. I once tried brushing the dumplings with sesame oil before baking for a deeper, toasty flavor—it made them even more irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, light meal, or party snack, these dumplings are a delightful crowd-pleaser with a bold, nutty twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers everything you crave—crispy texture, savory filling, and a creamy, tangy peanut sauce that ties it all together. Baking the dumplings means no standing over the stove and no greasy splatters, making them easier and healthier. Plus, they’re versatile—you can fill them with vegetables, chicken, shrimp, or tofu to match your taste. The peanut sauce is the star, perfectly balancing creamy, spicy, and sweet flavors for a dipping experience you’ll want to enjoy with everything.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Dumpling Wrappers
Round or square wrappers work fine. Look for them in the refrigerated section of Asian markets or grocery stores.

Ground Chicken or Pork
Adds protein and savory depth to the filling. You can also use finely chopped shrimp or crumbled tofu for vegetarian versions.

Cabbage
Provides texture and sweetness while keeping the filling juicy. Finely shredded Napa or green cabbage works best.

Green Onions
Add freshness and a mild bite to the filling.

Garlic and Ginger
Essential aromatics that bring warmth and bold Asian-inspired flavor.

Soy Sauce
Adds saltiness and umami to the filling and balances the peanut sauce beautifully.

Sesame Oil
A little goes a long way—adds nuttiness and aroma to both filling and dipping sauce.

Egg (optional)
Helps bind the filling ingredients together.

Peanut Butter
The heart of the sauce—creamy peanut butter creates that luscious, nutty base.

Rice Vinegar
Adds tanginess that cuts through the richness of the peanut butter.

Soy Sauce (for sauce)
Brings savory balance to the dipping sauce.

Honey or Brown Sugar
Adds sweetness to balance the spice and acidity.

Sriracha or Chili Paste
For a hint of spice in the peanut sauce—adjust based on preference.

Warm Water
Thins the sauce to the perfect dippable consistency.

Lime Juice (optional)
Adds freshness and brightness to the sauce.

Directions

1. Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the filling. In a bowl, combine ground chicken or pork, cabbage, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and egg. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Assemble the dumplings. Place about a teaspoon of filling in the center of each wrapper. Moisten the edges with water, fold over, and press to seal. Pleat the edges if desired for a traditional look.
4. Brush and bake. Arrange the dumplings on the baking sheet. Brush lightly with sesame or vegetable oil for a crisp, golden finish. Bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
5. Make the peanut sauce. While the dumplings bake, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha, and warm water until smooth. Add more water as needed to reach your preferred consistency. Stir in lime juice if desired.
6. Serve. Arrange the baked dumplings on a platter and drizzle or serve with the peanut sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped peanuts, cilantro, or sesame seeds if desired.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Pastry brush
• Whisk
• Small saucepan or bowl for sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 dumplings, serving 4 to 6 people.
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 18 minutes
Total time: 43 minutes

Storage/reheating

Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it softens the wrappers. The peanut sauce can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 5 days—just whisk or warm it slightly before serving.

Variations and Customizations

Vegetarian Delight: Replace the meat with finely chopped mushrooms, tofu, and carrots for a flavorful vegetarian filling.

Spicy Kick: Add chili oil or diced jalapeño to the filling for heat lovers.

Shrimp Dumplings: Substitute ground shrimp for a lighter, seafood-forward version.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tamari and rice paper wrappers instead of wheat dumpling wrappers.

Sweet & Spicy Sauce: Mix a teaspoon of hoisin sauce or brown sugar into the peanut sauce for added sweetness.

Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top before serving.

Coconut Peanut Sauce: Replace part of the water with coconut milk for a creamier, tropical twist.

Air Fryer Method: Air fry dumplings at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes for extra crispness.

Asian Fusion Flavor: Add a touch of miso paste to the filling for umami depth.

Thai-Inspired Twist: Add fresh basil or a squeeze of lime to the peanut sauce for brightness.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dumplings?

Yes! Bake or air fry frozen dumplings directly and serve them with the homemade peanut sauce.

Can I freeze homemade dumplings?

Definitely. Arrange them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 extra minutes.

What if my wrappers dry out while filling?

Cover unused wrappers with a damp towel to keep them soft.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter for the sauce?

Yes, it adds extra texture and nutty crunch.

How can I make the sauce thinner?

Whisk in more warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency.

Are these dumplings spicy?

Only mildly—the spice level depends on how much sriracha you add.

Can I fry these instead of baking?

Absolutely, pan-fry in a bit of oil until golden, then steam with a splash of water and cover to finish cooking.

What sides go well with these?

Serve with jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or sautéed greens for a complete meal.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Brush with oil just before cooking.

Can I serve the peanut sauce warm?

Yes, gently heat it before serving for a smoother, silkier texture.

Conclusion

These Oven-Baked Dumplings with Peanut Sauce deliver everything you want in a comfort food—crispy edges, savory filling, and a creamy, nutty dip that brings it all together. They’re easy to prepare, healthier than fried versions, and endlessly adaptable for any diet or craving. Whether you make them for a family dinner or a party appetizer, one thing’s certain—these dumplings will disappear fast.These Oven-Baked Dumplings with Peanut Sauce combine crisp, golden dumplings with a rich, creamy, and slightly spicy peanut dipping sauce. This recipe offers all the deliciousness of traditional pan-fried dumplings but without the extra oil and fuss. Baking gives them a perfect crunch while keeping the filling juicy inside. I once tried brushing the dumplings with sesame oil before baking for a deeper, toasty flavor—it made them even more irresistible. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, light meal, or party snack, these dumplings are a delightful crowd-pleaser with a bold, nutty twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers everything you crave—crispy texture, savory filling, and a creamy, tangy peanut sauce that ties it all together. Baking the dumplings means no standing over the stove and no greasy splatters, making them easier and healthier. Plus, they’re versatile—you can fill them with vegetables, chicken, shrimp, or tofu to match your taste. The peanut sauce is the star, perfectly balancing creamy, spicy, and sweet flavors for a dipping experience you’ll want to enjoy with everything.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Dumpling Wrappers
Round or square wrappers work fine. Look for them in the refrigerated section of Asian markets or grocery stores.

Ground Chicken or Pork
Adds protein and savory depth to the filling. You can also use finely chopped shrimp or crumbled tofu for vegetarian versions.

Cabbage
Provides texture and sweetness while keeping the filling juicy. Finely shredded Napa or green cabbage works best.

Green Onions
Add freshness and a mild bite to the filling.

Garlic and Ginger
Essential aromatics that bring warmth and bold Asian-inspired flavor.

Soy Sauce
Adds saltiness and umami to the filling and balances the peanut sauce beautifully.

Sesame Oil
A little goes a long way—adds nuttiness and aroma to both filling and dipping sauce.

Egg (optional)
Helps bind the filling ingredients together.

Peanut Butter
The heart of the sauce—creamy peanut butter creates that luscious, nutty base.

Rice Vinegar
Adds tanginess that cuts through the richness of the peanut butter.

Soy Sauce (for sauce)
Brings savory balance to the dipping sauce.

Honey or Brown Sugar
Adds sweetness to balance the spice and acidity.

Sriracha or Chili Paste
For a hint of spice in the peanut sauce—adjust based on preference.

Warm Water
Thins the sauce to the perfect dippable consistency.

Lime Juice (optional)
Adds freshness and brightness to the sauce.

Directions

1. Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Make the filling. In a bowl, combine ground chicken or pork, cabbage, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and egg. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Assemble the dumplings. Place about a teaspoon of filling in the center of each wrapper. Moisten the edges with water, fold over, and press to seal. Pleat the edges if desired for a traditional look.
4. Brush and bake. Arrange the dumplings on the baking sheet. Brush lightly with sesame or vegetable oil for a crisp, golden finish. Bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
5. Make the peanut sauce. While the dumplings bake, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha, and warm water until smooth. Add more water as needed to reach your preferred consistency. Stir in lime juice if desired.
6. Serve. Arrange the baked dumplings on a platter and drizzle or serve with the peanut sauce on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped peanuts, cilantro, or sesame seeds if desired.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with eas

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 dumplings, serving 4 to 6 people.
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Cooking time: 18 minutes
Total time: 43 minutes

Storage/reheating

Store leftover dumplings in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it softens the wrappers. The peanut sauce can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 5 days—just whisk or warm it slightly before serving.

Variations and Customizations

Vegetarian Delight: Replace the meat with finely chopped mushrooms, tofu, and carrots for a flavorful vegetarian filling.

Spicy Kick: Add chili oil or diced jalapeño to the filling for heat lovers.

Shrimp Dumplings: Substitute ground shrimp for a lighter, seafood-forward version.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tamari and rice paper wrappers instead of wheat dumpling wrappers.

Sweet & Spicy Sauce: Mix a teaspoon of hoisin sauce or brown sugar into the peanut sauce for added sweetness.

Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top before serving.

Coconut Peanut Sauce: Replace part of the water with coconut milk for a creamier, tropical twist.

Air Fryer Method: Air fry dumplings at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes for extra crispness.

Asian Fusion Flavor: Add a touch of miso paste to the filling for umami depth.

Thai-Inspired Twist: Add fresh basil or a squeeze of lime to the peanut sauce for brightness.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dumplings?

Yes! Bake or air fry frozen dumplings directly and serve them with the homemade peanut sauce.

Can I freeze homemade dumplings?

Definitely. Arrange them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding 3–5 extra minutes.

What if my wrappers dry out while filling?

Cover unused wrappers with a damp towel to keep them soft.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter for the sauce?

Yes, it adds extra texture and nutty crunch.

How can I make the sauce thinner?

Whisk in more warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency.

Are these dumplings spicy?

Only mildly—the spice level depends on how much sriracha you add.

Can I fry these instead of baking?

Absolutely, pan-fry in a bit of oil until golden, then steam with a splash of water and cover to finish cooking.

What sides go well with these?

Serve with jasmine rice, cucumber salad, or sautéed greens for a complete meal.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Brush with oil just before cooking.

Can I serve the peanut sauce warm?

Yes, gently heat it before serving for a smoother, silkier texture.

Conclusion

These Oven-Baked Dumplings with Peanut Sauce deliver everything you want in a comfort food—crispy edges, savory filling, and a creamy, nutty dip that brings it all together. They’re easy to prepare, healthier than fried versions, and endlessly adaptable for any diet or craving. Whether you make them for a family dinner or a party appetizer, one thing’s certain—these dumplings will disappear fast.

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