How to Dry Plums in the Oven

Drying plums in the oven is a simple and effective way to preserve this delicious fruit for use in a variety of recipes or as a nutritious snack. Whether you’re looking to enjoy plums year-round or reduce food waste, oven drying is a convenient method that enhances the natural sweetness and extends shelf life.

In this guide on how to dry plums in the oven, we’ll walk you through the steps to successfully dry plums at home, ensuring that you capture their rich flavor and health benefits while maintaining quality.

What are Oven-Dried Plums?

Oven-dried plums, often referred to as prunes, are plums that have had their moisture content significantly reduced through the process of drying. This method not only concentrates the fruit’s natural sugars, leading to a sweeter taste but also enhances its nutritional profile. Oven-drying plums result in a chewy texture and make them an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

They can be enjoyed as a convenient snack, added to baked goods, or incorporated into savory dishes to provide a hint of sweetness. Making oven-dried plums at home ensures that you know exactly what goes into your food, allowing you to avoid preservatives while enjoying a wholesome treat.

Needed Materials

• Plums
• Baking Sheet
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat
• Knife
• Cutting Board
• Oven 
• Cooling Rack
• Airtight Container or Mason Jar

8 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Dry Plums in the Oven

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven 

Preheat your oven to a low temperature, typically around 170°F (75°C). This setting is crucial for effectively drying the plums without cooking them. A lower temperature allows the moisture to evaporate slowly, ensuring that the plums retain their flavor and nutritional value.

Once the oven has reached the desired temperature, you’ll be ready to prepare the plums for drying. Make sure to keep the oven door slightly ajar during the drying process; this helps with air circulation and further aids in removing moisture.

Step 2: Wash and Dry the Plums 

Thoroughly wash the plums under cool running water to remove any dirt or pesticide residues. It’s important to ensure that the fruit is clean to maintain the quality of your dried plums. After washing, gently pat the plums dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.

This step helps to eliminate excess moisture on the surface, which could interfere with the drying process. Once the plums are clean and dry, you can proceed to the next step of removing the pits.

Step 3: Cut the Plums in Half 

Using a sharp knife, cut each plum in half lengthwise. This step is essential as it allows for proper air circulation during drying and also helps to reduce the time needed for drying. You can remove the pits at this stage or leave them intact if you prefer. However, removing the pits will speed up the process since they contain moisture that needs to be evaporated.

It’s crucial to ensure that the plums are cut into uniform slices to ensure even drying. Plums sliced too thick will take longer to dry, and thin slices may become overly crispy. Aim for a thickness of around 1/4 inch (6 mm).

Step 4: Arrange on a Baking Sheet 

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and arrange the plum halves in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Proper spacing ensures that air can circulate evenly around each piece, allowing for more efficient drying.

You can also place a cooling rack on top of the baking sheet and arrange the plum halves on it. This method helps to elevate the plums, allowing air to circulate underneath as well.

Step 5: Place in the Oven 

Carefully place the baking sheet with the plums in the oven, making sure not to disturb their arrangement. If using a cooling rack, place it directly on an oven rack for better air circulation.

Close the oven door while leaving it slightly ajar to ensure proper ventilation and prevent any potential condensation from forming inside.

Step 6: Monitor and Rotate 

After about two hours of drying, check on your plums periodically every half hour or so. The drying time will vary depending on the size of the plums, humidity levels, and your oven’s temperature. It’s essential to monitor them closely to avoid over-drying or burning.

About halfway through the drying process, gently rotate each plum half for even drying and prevent sticking to the baking sheet.

Step 7: Check for Doneness 

Your plums are ready when they are slightly leathery but still flexible and have no visible moisture in their flesh. You can perform a quick “bend test” by taking a piece of plum and bending it gently; it should not break easily.

If you feel any moisture when touching them, continue drying for another 30 minutes and check again. Avoid over-drying as this can result in a less flavorful and tougher texture.

Step 8: Cool and Store 

Once the plums are done, turn off the oven and let them cool down for about 15-20 minutes on the baking sheet. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely before storing them.

When fully cooled, store your dried plums in an airtight container or mason jar, making sure there is no excess moisture inside. Properly stored, they will last for several months at room temperature or even longer if kept in the refrigerator.

Additional Tips

Use Ripe Plums:

Choose plums that are just ripe, as they will have the best natural sweetness and flavor. Overripe or underripe plums may not yield the same delicious, chewy results.

Experiment with Flavour:

For a twist, consider marinating the plums in a mixture of honey, cinnamon, or vanilla extract for a few hours before drying. This can add a delightful layer of flavor to your oven-dried plums.

Avoid Overcrowding:

When arranging the plum halves on the baking sheet, ensure they are not overcrowded. This allows for better air circulation, leading to more even drying.

Store in Small Batches:

If you make a large quantity, consider dividing your dried plums into smaller batches for storage. This helps maintain freshness and makes it easier to snack on without frequently opening one large container.

Check for Pitting:

If you choose to leave the pits in, be cautious when consuming the dried plums, as they can be difficult to detect once dried and may pose a choking hazard.

Following these simple steps on how to dry plums in the oven, you can have delicious and healthy homemade dried plums ready to enjoy anytime. They make a great snack on their own, or you can add them to oatmeal, salads, yogurt, and various baked goods for a burst of natural sweetness. Happy drying! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I Use Any Type of Plum for Drying?

A: Yes, you can use any variety of plums for drying. However, some varieties may have a higher water content and require longer drying times. It’s best to experiment and see which plums you prefer for drying.

Q: Can I Add Any Seasonings or Sweeteners Before Drying?

A: Absolutely! You can sprinkle cinnamon, sugar, or other spices on the plum halves before placing them in the oven. This step adds extra flavor and makes your dried plums even more delicious.

Q: How Should I Store My Dried Plums?

A: Store your dried plums in an airtight container or mason jar at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer storage. Make sure they are completely cool before storing, and check for any moisture inside the container regularly to avoid spoilage.

Q: What Can I Use Dried Plums For?

A: Dried plums are a delicious and healthy snack on their own, but they can also be used in various recipes like granola bars, trail mix, baked goods, or added to savory dishes like salads and stews for a touch of sweetness. Get creative with your dried plums and enjoy them however you please!

Q: How Long Do Dried Plums Last?

A: Properly stored, dried plums can last for several months at room temperature or even longer if kept in the refrigerator. However, for optimal freshness and flavor, it’s best to consume them within 6-8 weeks of drying.

Conclusion

Drying plums in the oven is a rewarding and straightforward process that allows you to enjoy this nutritious fruit year-round. By following the provided guidelines on how to dry plums in the oven, you can create delicious, chewy, oven-dried plums that are perfect for snacking, baking, or enhancing savory dishes.

Not only do you gain a deeper appreciation for the fruit’s flavor and texture, but you also have the satisfaction of knowing exactly what goes into your food. With proper storage, these homemade treats can last for months, making them a convenient, healthy addition to your pantry. So, gather your materials and start enjoying the benefits of oven-dried plums today!