Crochet Version of The Viral Dumpling

If you’ve been anywhere near TikTok or Instagram lately, you’ve probably seen the viral dumpling squishies popping up everywhere! These adorable little buns (also known as Bao Bun Squishies, Mystery Dumpling Squishies, or Squishy Dumplings) have completely taken over.

What makes them so irresistible? That soft, slow-rising squish and the mystery surprise of what’s inside. Many come packaged in mini steamer baskets, and if you’re lucky, you might score a rare glitter or color-changing dumpling!

But here’s the problem… they are nearly impossible to find. When stores like Five Below or Target restock, people line up early and they sell out fast. So naturally… we made our own!

Instead of hunting them down, you can crochet your very own dumpling squishies and make them in ANY color you want!

And honestly… the reaction says it all

That moment when you open the “basket” and see your dumpling for the first time… it’s just as fun as the real thing!

These are designed to fit perfectly inside those plastic steamer baskets for the full blind-box experience.

Materials

• Red Heart Super Saver Yarn (any color!)
  I’m using Aran, Jade, Medium Purple, Bright Yellow, Pretty N Pink
  >>> SHOP HERE ON YARNSPIRATIONS.COM <<<
• Size H Crochet Hook
• Poly-fil fiber stuffing
• Tapestry needle
• Two 9mm black safety eyes
• Black yarn (for the smile)

Finished Size: Approx 4 inches wide

Want to make a rare version? Try using sparkle yarn like Red Heart Roll With It Sparkle for a glitter dumpling surprise! >>> Red Heart Roll With It Sparkle Yarn <<<

Watch the Video Tutorial

You can follow along step-by-step on my Repeat Crafter Me YouTube channel!

Viral Dumpling Pattern:
Magic Ring, chain 1 and make 10 SC in ring, join, chain 1
Round 2: 2 SC in each stitch around, join, chain 1 (20 SC)
Round 3: 2 SC in first, SC in next, repeat around, join chain 1 (30 SC)
Round 4: 2 SC in first, SC in next 2, repeat around, join, chain 1 (40 SC)
Round 5-9: SC in each stitch around, join, chain 1 (50 SC)
Round 10: SC Decrease, SC in next 2, repeat around, join, chain 1
Round 11: SC in each stitch around, join, chain 1 (40 SC)
Attach 9mm safety eyes between rounds 8 and 9 about 4 stitches apart.
Stitch on tiny smile with a strand of black yarn and a tapestry needle.
Stuff with poly-fil, but don’t overstuff. You want that soft, squishy feel!
Round 12: SC Decrease, SC in next, repeat around, join, chain 1
Round 13: SC in each stitch around, join, chain 1
Round 14: SC Decrease all the way around, join, chain 1
Round 15: SC in each stitch around, join, fasten off leaving long tail
with tapestry needle and loose end, stitch underneath the stitches from round 15 in order to cinch the top together giving the dumpling that classic pinch.
Weave in ends securely.

Want an Even Squishier Dumpling? ✨

These crochet dumplings are super soft with regular poly-fil stuffing, but if you want that true viral squishy toy feel, there are a few fun ways to level them up! Try adding small pieces of memory foam (like from an old pillow or mattress topper) to create that satisfying slow-rise squish. You can also place a small foam stress ball inside the center for an extra squeezable surprise. Maybe even a balloon filled with cornstarch like the common DIY stress ball. For a weighted sensory feel, add poly beads sealed inside a nylon stocking or small fabric pouch before stuffing.

These fit perfectly into the dumpling steam bun containers from Five Below!
Make in all sorts of colors and order some Red Heart Sparkle to make your own rare glitter dumpling surprise!

>>> Red Heart Roll With It Sparkle Yarn <<<

We are officially on a mission to crochet our own mystery dumplings… and let’s just say, Zoe is very invested. Spoiler: Mom already ordered sparkle yarn, so chances are looking good!

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