Plum recipes shine in every course. Sweet-tart jams, juicy grilled meats with sauce, and easy crisps celebrate the fruit’s bold flavor and late-summer charm.
18 Plum Recipes for Sweet and Savory Dishes
Plum Good Crisp
Plum Cobbler
Plum Upside-Down Cake
Ginger Plum Tart
Barbecued Beef Ribs
Plum Jam
Balsamic-Goat Cheese Grilled Plums
Fresh Plum Crumb Dessert
Brie Appetizers with Bacon-Plum Jam
Plum Anise Jam
Lemon Plum Sorbet
Spiced Plum Pie
German Plum Tart
Grilled Stone Fruits with Balsamic Syrup
Jam Biscuits
Meatballs in Plum Sauce
Plum Jelly
German Plum Cake
Plum Recipes FAQ
What are the best plums for cooking and baking?
Freestone plums like Santa Rosa, Elephant Heart and Italian prune plums are best for cooking and baking. These varieties are easy to pit and offer the ideal sweet-tart balance for desserts and savory recipes. Red and yellow plums hold their shape when baked into galettes, crisps, tarts or cakes, while ripe black plums break down into jammy textures perfect for sauces and fillings. To make preserves, use slightly underripe fruit, as it gives better acidity and structure.
Can dried plums be used in savory recipes?
Dried plums or prunes work well in savory recipes like braises, stews and roasted meat dishes. Their chewy texture and deep, caramelized flavor hold well when simmered with pork, duck or beef. Use them whole in tagines, or chop and add them to rice pilafs or roasted vegetables. To soften them before cooking, soak them in warm broth, wine or even brewed tea for 10 to 15 minutes. You can also add them to homemade trail mixes for healthy fruit snacks.
How can I store plums to keep them fresh longer?
Store ripe plums in the refrigerator, where they’ll stay fresh for up to five days. If they’re still firm, leave them at room temperature in a single layer with the stem side down. They will soften and smell fragrant in about two to three days. Avoid piling them in a bowl, as the weight can bruise the skin. To extend their shelf life, slice and freeze them or use overripe fruit in quick sauces or homemade jam recipes.

















