As the seasons change, plums become a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of sweet and savory dishes. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with your morning coffee or a flavorful accompaniment to your dinner plate, plums are the perfect fruit to incorporate into your cooking routine. From classic jams and preserves to innovative desserts and main courses, plums can be used in countless ways to add natural sweetness, texture, and flavor to any meal.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious plum recipes that showcase the fruit’s versatility and appeal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire you to try something new and exciting with plums.
Spiced Plum Jam
This sweet and spicy jam is perfect for toast, scones, or as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups plums, pitted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the plums, sugar, honey, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the jam has thickened and passed the “wrinkle test”.
4. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice.
5. Let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Plum and Goat Cheese Salad
Roasted Plum and Goat Cheese Salad: A sweet and savory combination of roasted plums, tangy goat cheese, and crunchy greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint plums (such as Italian Prunes or Santa Rosa), sliced into 1/4-inch thick wedges
– 1 log goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss plum wedges with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast plums for 15-20 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped mint leaves.
5. Arrange roasted plums on top of the salad mixture.
6. Drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (roasting time)
Plum and Almond Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the flavors of fresh plums, crunchy almonds, and a buttery crust for a delightful dessert or snack. Perfect for warm weather, this recipe is easy to prepare and impressive to serve.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch tart crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 3-4 ripe plums, sliced
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the tart crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. Arrange plum slices on the crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle almonds evenly over the plums.
5. In a small bowl, mix honey, sugar, and salt. Drizzle the mixture over the plums and almonds.
6. Pour heavy cream into the tart shell, making sure to cover the fruit.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Plum Skewers with Honey Glaze
Simplify your summer gatherings with these easy-to-make Grilled Plum Skewers, smothered in a sweet and sticky honey glaze. Perfect as an appetizer or dessert, these bite-sized treats will delight both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 plums (any variety), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread plums onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
4. Brush the glaze evenly onto both sides of the plum skewers.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until plums are tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from heat, sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Enjoy your sweet and savory Grilled Plum Skewers with Honey Glaze!
Plum and Ginger Chutney
This sweet and tangy chutney is perfect for serving alongside grilled meats, naan bread, or as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs plums, chopped
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped plums, onion, and grated ginger.
2. Add the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chutney has thickened and reduced slightly.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
5. Let the chutney cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Plum Clafoutis
Experience the sweet and tangy flavors of plums baked with buttery crumbs and a hint of vanilla, all wrapped up in a warm, crumbly crust. This classic French dessert is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen plums, sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the sliced plums in an even layer.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Pour the batter over the plums, spreading evenly to cover.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the fruit is tender.
6. Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Plum and Cinnamon Smoothie
A refreshing blend of sweet plums and warm cinnamon, perfect for a healthy breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe plum, pitted
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt (low-fat)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup almond milk
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the plum, yogurt, honey, and cinnamon.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add the almond milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level to your liking.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (blending time)
Tips:
– Use fresh plums for the best flavor.
– Adjust the amount of honey to suit your taste.
– Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker, colder smoothie.
Plum and Rosemary Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory pork tenderloin dish, featuring the perfect balance of juicy plums and fragrant rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) pork tenderloin
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 cup plums, sliced (such as Italian prune or Santa Rosa)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Season the pork tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the pork tenderloin with the rosemary mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Place the plums on top of the pork, arranging them in a single layer.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Plum and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
This unique ice cream flavor combines the sweetness of plums with the warmth of vanilla bean, creating a delightful dessert perfect for warm weather. This recipe yields 1 1/2 quarts of creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 cup pureed plums (fresh or canned)
– 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the pureed plums and vanilla bean.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Transfer the finished ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + chilling time
Plum and Cardamom Upside-Down Cake
This moist and aromatic cake combines the sweetness of plums with the warmth of cardamom, topped with a caramelized sugar crust. Perfect for a cozy dessert or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup pitted plums, sliced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and cardamom.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add dry ingredients and mix until combined.
4. Arrange plum slices in a single layer on the prepared pan.
5. Pour batter over plums and sprinkle with brown sugar.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before flipping onto a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Plum and Balsamic Glazed Chicken
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of plums with the tanginess of balsamic glaze, creating a unique flavor profile that elevates chicken to new heights. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fresh plums, sliced
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium, add sliced plums, garlic, and Dijon mustard. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until plums start to caramelize.
6. Add balsamic glaze and stir to combine.
7. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon plum-glazed mixture over each breast.
8. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Plum and Coconut Chia Pudding
A unique blend of sweet plums and creamy coconut pairs perfectly with the nutty flavor of chia seeds in this delicious pudding.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup diced plums (such as Italian prune or Santa Rosa)
– 1 tablespoon shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together almond milk, Greek yogurt, and honey until well combined.
2. Add coconut oil, vanilla extract, and whisk until smooth.
3. Stir in diced plums and shredded coconut.
4. Mix in chia seeds and stir well to combine.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight to allow the pudding to set.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with additional plum slices and a sprinkle of shredded coconut if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes to overnight (depending on setting time)
Plum and Thyme Focaccia
This Italian-inspired flatbread is infused with the sweetness of plums and the earthiness of thyme, perfect for a unique snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/2 cup sliced plums (such as Italian Prunes)
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10-12 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle.
6. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with thyme and plums.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Plum and Hazelnut Granola
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of plums with the rich flavor of hazelnuts, creating a deliciously crunchy granola perfect for snacking or topping your favorite yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, and hazelnuts)
– 1/2 cup dried plums (such as prunes), chopped
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, and plums.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey, maple syrup, and olive oil.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Spread the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
8. Break into chunks and store in an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Plum and Star Anise Compote
This sweet and fragrant compote is perfect as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal, or as a side dish for pork or game meats. The combination of plums and star anise creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh plums, pitted
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon water
– 1 whole star anise pod, broken into pieces
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the plums, sugar, and water.
2. Add the star anise pieces to the mixture.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the plums are tender and the liquid has reduced slightly (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Strain the compote through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the star anise pieces.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Plum and Dark Chocolate Muffins
A sweet and savory combination, these muffins are perfect for a snack or breakfast on-the-go. Plums add natural sweetness and texture, while dark chocolate provides a rich and indulgent flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 cup diced plums (fresh or canned)
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and yogurt. Mix until just combined.
4. Fold in diced plums and dark chocolate chips.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Plum and Lavender Lemonade
Combine the sweetness of plums with the floral essence of lavender in this unique lemonade recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup plum puree (canned or fresh)
• 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
• Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, whisk together lemon juice and sugar until dissolved.
2. Add water to the mixture and stir well.
3. Add plum puree and whisk until combined.
4. In a small bowl, steep dried lavender buds in 1 tablespoon of hot water for 5 minutes.
5. Strain the lavender infusion into the pitcher with the lemonade mixture.
6. Stir gently to combine.
7. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
8. Serve over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required, as this is a refreshing drink recipe.
Plum and Walnut Stuffed French Toast
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying twist on traditional French toast. This recipe combines the warmth of bread, the sweetness of plums, and the crunch of walnuts for a delicious breakfast or brunch treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Challah bread
– 1/2 cup of plum jam
– 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, melted
– Cinnamon sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place bread slices on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Spread plum jam on two of the toasted bread slices, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the jam.
7. Top with the remaining bread slices to create sandwiches.
8. Serve warm, dusting with cinnamon sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the sweetness of plums with these 18 delicious recipes, perfect for every season. From sweet treats like Plum and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream and Plum and Dark Chocolate Muffins to savory dishes like Roasted Plum and Goat Cheese Salad and Plum and Cinnamon Smoothie, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making a Spiced Plum Jam or a Plum and Almond Tart, or enjoy the flavors of summer with Grilled Plum Skewers with Honey Glaze. Whatever your taste buds desire, these plum recipes are sure to satisfy.