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Whip up a gourmet topping in just 15 minutes with this easy small batch caramelized plum recipe! Made with only 5 ingredients, these luscious caramelized plums are the perfect versatile plum dessert. Serve them warm over ice cream, pancakes, or yogurt for an ordinary to extraordinary transformation!

a white bowl filled with softened plums in a sauce next to a aqua colored towel.

Transform your meals and desserts into luxurious treats with these rich, decadent caramelized plums. Pair them with a creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream, top them over fluffy pancakes or crisp waffles, or create an indulgent yogurt parfait layered with creamy yogurt, crunchy butter pecan granola, and these luscious caramelized plums.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick: Have a gourmet treat in under 15 minutes!
  • Versatile: Perfect as a topping or a stand-alone plum dessert.
  • Few Ingredients: Made with everyday kitchen staples, our recipe is a great way to use overripe plums.
  • Adjustable Sweetness: Easy to adjust based on your preference.
  • Delectable: Offers a harmonious balance of sweetness, tartness, and a touch of spice.

What Is Caramelization?

Caramelization occurs when sugar is heated, leading to a change in its color and flavor. This process turns the sugar brown. When fruits and vegetables are caramelized, their natural sugars undergo the same transformation, resulting in the browning of the produce due to the heating of these inherent sugars.

Ingredients

the ingredients for caramelized plums on a brown table including 2 plums, sugar, and butter.

If you have any ingredients leftover from this plum recipe, check out our Leftover Ingredients Recipe Finder.

  • Butter: Adds a rich depth. For a dairy-free option, coconut oil is a great alternative.
  • Sugar: Caramelizes the plums. You can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
  • Water: Helps in the caramelizing process. You can substitute with orange juice for added flavor.
  • Plums: Any variety works, but ensure they’re ripe for the best result.
  • Salt: Enhances the sweet flavors. A pinch is enough.
  • Optional – Cinnamon: Gives a warming spice. Can be replaced with nutmeg or left out.

This is just an overview of the ingredients I used and why I used them. For the full recipe please scroll down to the recipe box at the bottom of the post.

Recipe Variations

The beauty of this plum dessert recipe lies in its versatility. Here are some variations to try:

  • Alcohol Twist: Add a splash of brandy or rum for an adult twist.
  • Citrus Zest: Grate in some orange or lemon zest for a refreshing touch.
  • Herbs: Rosemary or thyme can add an aromatic undertone.
  • Spices: Experiment with cardamom or star anise for a unique flavor profile.
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How To Make Caramelized Plums

These step-by-step photos and instructions help you visualize how to make a small batch of caramelized plums. See the recipe box below for ingredient amounts and full recipe instructions.

  1. Melt butter in a small skillet.
  2. Add sugar and 1 teaspoon of water. Swirl the pan to dissolve the sugar and cook until the mixture becomes the color of golden caramel.
  3. Remove the pan from the heat and add the sliced plums and cinnamon, if using. Cook for 5 minutes until the plums soften.
three photos showing how to make caramelized plums in a skillet.

Expert Tips

  • Use a non-stick pan for easier cleanup: Caramelizing fruit can get sticky, so a non-stick pan will make the process smoother.
  • Adjust sugar based on plum sweetness: Add more sugar for tart plums and less for very sweet ones.
  • Cook to your desired softness: Stir the fruit frequently as it cooks to achieve your preferred texture.
  • Branch out beyond plums: Try this recipe with other stone fruits like peaches or apples!

Ways To Use Caramelized Plums

Love these caramelized plums on pancakes and vanilla ice cream? They’re just as delicious with warm biscuits or fresh cream scones for a twist! Want more inspiration? Here are several single serving and small batch recipe ideas featuring these versatile plums!

a bowl of ice cream topped with caramelized plums with a sugar sauce spooned over the top.

Frequently Asked Questions

What other fruits can I caramelize?

This recipe works well with peaches, nectarines, pears, and even apples.

How do I store caramelized plums?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

How do I reheat caramelized plums?

Warm them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I use honey instead of sugar in this caramelized plum recipe?

Yes, but it might alter the caramelization process slightly. Monitor closely.

What pan should I use to make a small batch of caramelized plums?

I use a 10-inch skillet in this recipe. For best results, use a pan of similar size.

For information on the cooking and baking dishes I use in our “recipes for one”, please visit our FAQ page.
For examples of the dishes used at One Dish Kitchen, please visit our Store page.

If you’ve tried these caramelized plums or any recipe on One Dish Kitchen please let me know how you liked it by rating the recipe and telling me about it in the comment section below.

Also, if you take a picture please tag us on Instagram (@onedishkitchen) we’d love to see!


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Small Batch Caramelized Plums

5 from 4 votes
Prep: 5 minutes
Cook: 10 minutes
Total: 15 minutes
Servings: 1 serving
Make our Small Batch Caramelized Plum recipe in 15 minutes! With only 5 ingredients, create a luscious plum dessert for topping ice cream, pancakes, or yogurt.

Ingredients 
 

  • 1 tablespoon salted butter
  • 1 ½ tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon water
  • 2 medium plums , sliced
  • teaspoon kosher salt
  • teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
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Instructions 

  • Make the Caramel: In a 10-inch non-stick skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sugar and water, swirling the pan to dissolve the sugar. Cook the mixture for 3-5 minutes, until it bubbles and turns a golden caramel color. Remove the pan from the heat.
  • Caramelize the Plums: Add the sliced plums to the hot caramel, spreading them out in a single layer. Season with salt and cinnamon (optional). Return the pan to heat and cook, stirring occasionally, for another 3-5 minutes, until the plums soften slightly.
  • Enjoy or Store: You can enjoy the caramelized plums warm over your favorite dessert, or transfer them to a jar and store in the refrigerator for later.

Notes

  • Use a non-stick pan for easier cleanup: Caramelizing fruit can get sticky, so a non-stick pan will make the process smoother.
  • Adjust sugar based on plum sweetness: Add more sugar for tart plums and less for very sweet ones.
  • Cook to your desired softness: Stir the fruit frequently as it cooks to achieve your preferred texture.
  • Branch out beyond plums: Try this recipe with other stone fruits like peaches or apples!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving, Calories: 231kcal, Carbohydrates: 33g, Protein: 1g, Fat: 12g, Saturated Fat: 7g, Cholesterol: 30mg, Sodium: 391mg, Potassium: 207mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 31g, Vitamin A: 805IU, Vitamin C: 13mg, Iron: 1mg

The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

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5 from 4 votes (1 rating without comment)

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6 Comments

  1. Brennan says:

    Made this with some late summer plums that we still had in the kitchen this evening and added a drizzle of heavy cream to serve. Delicious! Thank you for the recipe.

  2. Vani says:

    Turned out so delicious.. paired it up with Vanilla ice cream and your banana bread ! Great dessert night !

    1. Joanie Zisk says:

      What a wonderful combination! I’m so happy you enjoyed it.

  3. Taryn says:

    Okay, yuuuum!!!!!! Thank you for the recipe!

  4. Phoebe Scarborough says:

    Loved this! My plums were not sweet so I added an extra tablespoon of sugar. Also added a bit of heavy cream at the end to give it that caramel creaminess, and a dash of vanilla. Can’t believe it was so easy. Thank you!

    1. Joanie Zisk says:

      I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe, Phoebe. Thank you so much for your feedback. Next time, I’ll have to add cream – that sounds like a delicious idea!