There’s something undeniably charming about preserving fruit, and plums in brandy are no exception. This classic treat combines the natural sweetness of ripe plums with the rich, warming notes of brandy, creating a luxurious dessert or a delightful addition to cocktails. It’s a simple yet elegant way to capture the essence of the season and enjoy it year-round.
Plums In Brandy Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of fresh plums, washed and pitted
- 1 cup of sugar
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 5 whole cloves
- 3 cups of high-quality brandy
Tools Required
- Sterilized glass jar with a tight-fitting lid (at least 1 quart)
- Small saucepan
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Plums
Slice the washed and pitted plums into halves or quarters, depending on their size. Ensure that no pits or blemished parts remain. The cuts allow the flavors to infuse thoroughly.
Step 2: Sterilize the Jar
Place the glass jar in boiling water for 10 minutes to sterilize it. This step ensures a safe and long-lasting preservation. Let it air dry completely on a clean towel before use.
Step 3: Create the Syrup
Combine 1 cup of sugar, 2 cinnamon sticks, and 5 whole cloves with 1 cup of water in the saucepan. Heat this mixture over medium heat while stirring with a wooden spoon until the sugar dissolves. Simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat and allow the syrup to cool completely.
Step 4: Layer and Fill
Place the plum slices in the sterilized jar in layers. Add a few small pieces of cinnamon stick and cloves between the layers for enhanced flavor. Pour the cooled syrup over the plums, ensuring even distribution.
Step 5: Add the Brandy
Pour the 3 cups of brandy slowly over the fruit and syrup. Fill the jar until the plums are fully submerged but leave about half an inch of space at the top for expansion. Seal the jar tightly with the lid.
Step 6: Store and Infuse
Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks to allow the plums to absorb the brandy and spices fully. Gently shake the jar every few days to ensure even mixing of flavors.
Step 7: Taste and Serve
After the infusion period, taste the plums in brandy. They are now ready to enjoy! Serve the plums as-is over ice cream, yogurt, or alongside desserts. The infused brandy can be sipped on its own or used in cocktails.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Plums | 2 pounds | Base fruit |
| Sugar | 1 cup | Sweetener in syrup |
| Cinnamon Sticks | 2 | Spices for warmth |
| Whole Cloves | 5 | Adds earthy spice |
| Brandy | 3 cups | Alcohol base for preservation |
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients we’ll need to create this flavorful treat. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in infusing the plums with a balance of sweetness and warmth:
- 2 pounds fresh plums (small to medium-sized, ripe but firm; washed and dried)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups high-quality brandy
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4–6 whole cloves
- 1 vanilla bean (split lengthwise; optional but adds depth)
- Sterilized glass jar(s) (with tight-fitting lids; capacity should accommodate the ingredients comfortably)
Tools And Equipment
To make our Plums in Brandy, we need the right set of tools and equipment to ensure both precision and safety for preserving the fruit. Here’s a list of everything you’ll need:
Essential Tools:
- Sterile glass jars: We recommend mason jars or jars with tight-fitting lids, preferably with a capacity of 16–32 ounces to accommodate the plums and brandy comfortably.
- Large pot: For sterilizing the jars and lids as well as preparing the syrup base.
- Jar lifter or tongs: Essential for safely removing hot jars after sterilization.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring the syrup without reacting with acidic ingredients.
- Paring knife: To pit or score the plums for better absorption of the brandy.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For ensuring accurate amounts of sugar, brandy, and spices.
- Funnel: Helps in transferring the syrup and brandy into the jars without spilling.
- Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer: Optional, for straining any solids or sediment from the syrup.
- Kitchen towel: For drying jars and cleaning up any spills as you work.
Recommended Equipment:
We use a combination of tools to simplify the process and maintain control:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mason Jars | Holding plums, syrup, and brandy mixture airtight during infusion. |
| Large Pot | Sterilizing jars and cooking the flavor-infused syrup. |
| Jar Lifter | Safe movement of jars from hot water after sterilization. |
| Paring Knife | Scoring or pitting plums without damaging their structure. |
| Funnel | Pouring liquids into jars while reducing mess. |
| Fine Mesh Strainer | Removing solids from syrup for a smooth consistency (optional). |
Directions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making plums in brandy. Follow these instructions to create a flavorful treat that captures the essence of the season.
Prep
- Wash and Prepare the Plums: Rinse 2 pounds of fresh, ripe but firm plums under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Using a paring knife, pierce each plum several times to help them absorb the syrup and brandy evenly.
- Sterilize the Jars: Place the glass jars and lids in a large pot of boiling water for 10 minutes to sterilize. Carefully remove them using a jar lifter or tongs and set them on a clean towel to dry.
- Measure Ingredients: Measure out all the ingredients for accuracy:
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups high-quality brandy
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 4–6 whole cloves
- (Optional) 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
- Prepare the Vanilla Bean (Optional): If using, split the vanilla bean lengthwise with a knife to release its seeds for additional depth of flavor.
Assemble
- Arrange the Plums in Jars: Begin by placing the prepared plums into the sterilized jars. Pack them tightly but avoid crushing them.
- Layer the Spices: Add 2 cinnamon sticks and 4–6 whole cloves evenly between the jars (if using multiple). This ensures the spices are well-distributed.
- Add Optional Vanilla Bean: Place the split vanilla bean into the jars for an aromatic boost.
- Prepare the Sugar and Syrup: In a small clean bowl, combine the measured sugar with a few tablespoons of warm water. Stir until the sugar dissolves slightly.
Cook
- Prepare the Syrup: In a large pot over medium heat, mix the sugar with 1 ½ cups of water. Stir gently until the sugar is fully dissolved. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer for about 2 minutes.
- Pour the Brandy Mixture: While the syrup is still warm, pour it over the packed plums until they are fully submerged. Leave about ½ inch of space at the top of the jars.
- Seal the Jars: Using a funnel, carefully add the brandy, ensuring the plums and spices are completely covered. Secure the lid tightly.
- Infuse the Mixture: Store the jars in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks to allow the flavors to meld. Gently invert the jars every few days to ensure the spices and brandy infuse evenly.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Piercing Plums | Helps absorb the syrup and brandy evenly. |
| Sterilizing Jars | Ensures a sterile environment, preventing unwanted bacteria. |
| Layering Ingredients | Provides a balanced infusion of flavors from plums, spices, and optional vanilla. |
| Allowing Infusion | Essential for the depth of flavor; takes 4–6 weeks. |
This technique ensures that your Plums in Brandy come out aromatic, sweet, and perfectly infused with spices.
Make-Ahead Instructions
When making plums in brandy, preparation ahead of time ensures bold, well-rounded flavors and a seamless process. This treat benefits from careful planning, allowing the ingredients to fully infuse, creating a luxurious and aromatic result. Let’s break it down into manageable tasks for smooth execution.
1. Prepare Ingredients in Advance
Before assembling the recipe, we recommend sourcing fresh, ripe but firm plums and storing them in a cool, dry place until use. Spices such as cinnamon sticks and whole cloves can also be pre-measured and stored in airtight containers to retain their aroma.
Tip: If you’d like to enhance the flavor, pre-split the optional vanilla bean and scrape out the seeds.
2. Sterilize Jars Early
Proper sterilization is critical for preserving plums in brandy safely. To save time on the day of assembly, we can sterilize the jars a day ahead. Here’s a quick guide:
| Step | Method |
|---|---|
| Cleaning | Wash jars and lids with hot, soapy water and rinse thoroughly. |
| Boiling | Submerge jars in boiling water for at least 10 minutes. |
| Drying | Place the jars upside down on a clean kitchen towel to dry completely. |
Store the sterilized jars in a clean space, ensuring they remain uncontaminated.
3. Prepare the Syrup
The syrup can be cooked and cooled one day in advance. This allows us to work at a relaxed pace and ensures the syrup’s flavor is well blended. Use the following method for an early start:
- Combine 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar with 1 cup of water in a large pot.
- Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Let the syrup reach a gentle simmer, then remove from heat and cool completely.
- Transfer the cooled syrup to a sealed container and refrigerate.
Note: If infusing the syrup with spices, add them during the cooking process and strain the syrup when cooled.
4. Plan Infusion Period
Once assembled, the jars need to rest for 4–6 weeks to allow the brandy, spices, and plums to create a harmonious flavor. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place during this period. Mark the jars with the preparation date for easy tracking.
5. Batch Preparation for Gifting
Planning to gift these treats? Scale things up by doubling or tripling the recipe and sterilizing multiple jars at once. Additionally, craft decorative labels or ribbons ahead for a personal touch.
By following these make-ahead instructions, we ensure a streamlined process and elevate the quality of our plums in brandy for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
Our plums in brandy are not just a treat; they’re a versatile delicacy that elevates countless dishes and drinks. Here are some fantastic serving ideas to help you make the most of this luxurious creation:
1. Dessert Enhancer
Transform simple desserts into gourmet creations by incorporating these brandied plums.
- Serve them warm or chilled over vanilla ice cream for a decadent pairing.
- Add them to cheesecakes or panna cottas as a rich, fruity topping.
- Use them to layer trifles for bursts of sweetness and warmth.
2. Breakfast Toppers
Brighten your mornings with the ambrosial flavor of brandied plums.
- Slice and spoon them over fluffy pancakes or waffles.
- Pair with yogurt and granola for a refined, fruit-forward parfait.
- Top a slice of toasted brioche or sourdough for a sweet yet sophisticated start to the day.
3. Cheese Board Companion
The sweet and spicy notes of the plums complement a variety of cheeses.
- Pair them with creamy brie, sharp cheddar, or tangy blue cheese.
- Arrange alongside nuts, charcuterie, and crusty bread for a refined platter.
4. Cocktail Ingredient
Elevate your mixology game by incorporating the infused brandy or the plums themselves.
- Use the flavored brandy in classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
- Muddle the plums into a craft cocktail for complexity and richness.
- Add them as a garnish to champagne or sparkling wine for a sophisticated flourish.
5. Flavored Bakes
Bring their unique profile to baked goods for an unexpected twist.
- Chop and fold the plums into muffin or scone batter.
- Bake them into a plum tart or galette with the syrup drizzled over the top.
- Add them to quick breads for a moist and aromatic loaf.
6. Straight from the Jar
Sometimes, simplicity is best. Enjoy our plums in brandy as they are:
- Serve them in a dessert dish with a dollop of fresh whipped cream.
- Offer unadorned at the end of a meal as a digestif treat.
- Spoon a serving onto a small plate with a drizzle of their spiced syrup.
Presentation Tips Table
| Occasion | Serving Tip | Pairing Idea |
|---|---|---|
| Holiday Gathering | Serve plums over ice cream with syrup drizzled on top. | Complement with a glass of nutty sherry. |
| Casual Brunch | Top pancakes with plums and a dollop of Greek yogurt. | Add freshly brewed coffee or tea. |
| Elegant Dinner | Plate them with cheese and charcuterie. | Pair with a bold red wine like a Malbec. |
With their versatility and sophistication, these plums in brandy can seamlessly enhance everything from casual brunches to formal dinners. Indulge in their spiced sweetness and create unforgettable culinary experiences.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is crucial to preserve the flavor and quality of our plums in brandy. Here are detailed tips to ensure they are stored safely and remain delectable over time:
1. Choosing the Right Storage Location
- Store jars in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard. Direct sunlight and heat can degrade the flavors and compromise the seal on the jars.
- Ensure the storage location is away from temperature fluctuations for consistent preservation.
2. Sealing and Labeling
- Verify that each jar is properly sealed before storing. After infusing the plums, check for an airtight seal by pressing down on the lid. If it doesn’t “pop,” the seal is intact.
- Label the jars with the infusion date to track the 4–6 week period and ensure you enjoy them when the flavors are perfectly developed.
Example label:
“Plums in Brandy – Infused on: [MM/DD/YYYY]”
3. Shelf Life
- When stored properly, plums in brandy can last up to 12 months. However, for the best taste, we recommend consuming them within 6–8 months.
- An ideal storage temperature ranges between 50°F and 70°F to maintain their perfect state.
4. After Opening
- Once opened, refrigerate the jar and use the plums within 2–3 weeks for optimal freshness.
- Ensure the plums are always submerged in brandy to prevent spoilage.
5. Signs of Spoilage
Look out for these indicators to ensure safety:
- Cloudy syrup or any unusual sediment at the bottom of the jar.
- Mold formation or an unpleasant odor when opened.
- If spoilage is observed, discard the jar immediately to avoid health risks.
Quick Reference Table:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Storage Location | Cool, dark, away from sunlight and heat |
| Shelf Life (Unopened) | Up to 12 months |
| Shelf Life (Opened) | 2–3 weeks (refrigerated) |
| Ideal Temp Range | 50°F to 70°F |
| Sealing Check | Airtight, no pop when lid pressed |
| Signs of Spoilage | Cloudy syrup, mold, unpleasant odor |
By following these Storage Tips, we can savor the sweet, spiced, and aromatic flavors of our plums in brandy throughout the year, ensuring every jar is as luxurious as intended.
Conclusion
Plums in brandy offer a perfect blend of tradition, flavor, and versatility. This timeless recipe allows us to savor the season’s bounty while creating something truly special for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on their own or as part of a decadent dish, these spiced and brandy-infused plums never fail to impress.
With a little preparation and patience, we can craft a treat that’s as delightful to share as it is to enjoy ourselves. Let’s embrace the art of preserving and elevate our culinary creations with this simple yet luxurious addition.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are plums in brandy?
Plums in brandy are a preserved fruit treat made by combining ripe plums with sugar, brandy, and spices like cinnamon and cloves. The mixture is infused for several weeks to develop a rich, sweet, and aromatic flavor, perfect for desserts, cocktails, or enjoying straight from the jar.
2. How long does it take to make plums in brandy?
The preparation process takes about an hour, but the plums need to infuse in the brandy for 4–6 weeks to achieve the best flavor.
3. What ingredients are needed to make plums in brandy?
You’ll need fresh plums, granulated sugar, high-quality brandy, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and optionally a vanilla bean. Sterilized glass jars are also required for storage.
4. How do I sterilize jars for plums in brandy?
Wash jars thoroughly, place them in boiling water for 10 minutes, then air-dry on a clean surface. This ensures the jars are hygienic and ready for preserving.
5. How should I store plums in brandy?
Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 12 months. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 2–3 weeks for optimal flavor and safety.
6. How can I use plums in brandy?
Plums in brandy can be served over ice cream, pancakes, or yogurt, used in trifle desserts, incorporated into cocktails, or enjoyed on cheese boards. They also make excellent toppings for baked goods.
7. Can I prepare plums in brandy in advance?
Yes! You can prepare ingredients and sterilize jars ahead of time. The infusion process takes 4–6 weeks, so plan accordingly for a make-ahead treat.
8. How do I know if plums in brandy have spoiled?
Look for signs like mold, discoloration, or a sour smell. If any of these are present, discard the contents immediately.
9. Can I adjust the spices in plums in brandy?
Absolutely! You can customize the flavor by adjusting the amount of cinnamon, cloves, or adding spices like star anise or cardamom to suit your taste.
10. Are plums in brandy a good gift option?
Yes! Plums in brandy are a delightful homemade gift. Simply package them in decorative jars and add a label for a personal touch, perfect for holidays or special occasions.