Making Blackberry Dumplings is quite simple when you follow these steps carefully:

1. Prepare the Blackberry Mixture: In a medium saucepan, combine the blackberries, ½ cup of sugar, water, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes until the blackberries soften and release their juices.

2. Make the Dumpling Dough: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, remaining sugar, and salt. Add in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract, stirring to create a soft dough.

3. Drop the Dumplings: Once the berry mixture is simmering, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough directly into the simmering syrup. Space them evenly to allow room for expansion.

4. Cover and Cook: Reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Let the dumplings cook for about 15-20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during cooking, as this helps the dumplings steam and become fluffy.

5. Check Doneness: After the time is up, use a toothpick to check the dumplings. If it comes out clean, they’re ready to serve.

6. Serve Warm: Carefully ladle the dumplings and blackberry sauce into bowls, ensuring each serving has plenty of the delicious syrup.