Prunes, those small, wrinkly fruits that are often overlooked in favor of more glamorous ingredients. But don’t be fooled – prunes are a culinary treasure trove just waiting to be unlocked! With their sweet-tart flavor and chewy texture, they’re the perfect addition to everything from savory main courses to decadent desserts.
From classic prune compotes and jams to innovative uses like prune-stuffed French toast and prune-glazed ham, we’ve rounded up 20 of the most delectable prune recipes out there. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these sweet and savory delights are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
In this article, we’ll explore the many ways prunes can elevate your cooking and baking, from comforting breakfasts to impressive dinner parties. So grab a apron, get ready to get creative, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of prunes!
Prune and Walnut Stuffed Chicken
A sweet and savory twist on traditional stuffed chicken, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of prunes with the earthy flavor of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken breast (boneless, skinless)
– 1/4 cup chopped prunes
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together prunes, walnuts, butter, honey, and mustard.
3. Lay the chicken breast flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket.
4. Stuff the chicken with the prune-walnut mixture, dividing it evenly.
5. Season the outside of the chicken with salt and pepper.
6. Place the stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced Prune Compote with Yogurt
Spiced Prune Compote with Yogurt Recipe
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Warm up with a sweet and spicy treat! This spiced prune compote pairs perfectly with a dollop of creamy yogurt for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted prunes, chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 cinnamon stick, broken into pieces
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt (any type)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine prunes, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon stick, cloves, and nutmeg.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Stir in yogurt until well combined.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Prune and Dark Chocolate Energy Balls
Boost your energy levels with these bite-sized treats that combine the natural sweetness of prunes with the richness of dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted prunes (dried plums)
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa solids)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine prunes, oats, and salt. Mix until well combined.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and dark chocolate chips together, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in honey until dissolved.
4. Add the melted chocolate mixture to the prune mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
Cooking Time: None! These energy balls are ready to eat straight from the fridge.
Moroccan Prune and Lamb Tagine
Experience the rich flavors of Morocco with this aromatic tagine recipe, featuring tender lamb, sweet prunes, and a blend of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or shanks, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pitted prunes (dried plums)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in the bottom of a clay or ceramic tagine (or Dutch oven) over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add lamb and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add garlic, prunes, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
6. Cover the tagine and cook over low heat for 2-3 hours or until lamb is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and crusty bread on the side.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Prune and Almond Tart
This sweet and savory tart combines the natural sweetness of prunes with the crunch of almonds, perfect for a unique dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted prunes, chopped
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together prunes, almonds, sugar, and salt.
3. Roll out the pie crust and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Arrange the prune-almond mixture in the center of the tart, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the edges of the crust up over the filling to form a crust.
6. Brush the egg wash over the crust to give it a golden brown color.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Roasted Pork Loin with Prunes and Apples
This recipe combines the rich flavors of pork loin with the sweetness of prunes and apples, creating a deliciously balanced dish perfect for a special occasion or family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) pork loin
– 1/4 cup prunes, pitted and chopped
– 1 large apple, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together prunes, apple, salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork loin, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork loin in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Roast the pork loin for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
6. Let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Prune and Orange Glazed Ham
Sweet and savory, this glazed ham is perfect for a special occasion or everyday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1 cup pitted prunes, chopped
– 1/2 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together prunes, orange marmalade, brown sugar, garlic, mustard, and thyme.
3. Score the ham in a diamond pattern, cutting about 1/4 inch deep.
4. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
5. Brush the prune-orange glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
6. Cover the ham with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Prune and Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies
A sweet and savory twist on traditional oatmeal cookies, these prunes add natural sweetness and chewiness to each bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup pitted prunes, chopped
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped prunes and nuts (if using).
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Let cool on wire rack for 5 minutes before transferring to a paper towel-lined plate.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Prune-Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and savory treat! Prune-stuffed French toast is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite, featuring tender bread filled with sweet prunes and topped with a crispy egg glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably Challah or brioche)
– 1/2 cup pitted prunes, chopped
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Stuff each bread slice with chopped prunes.
5. Cook the French toast for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Top with maple syrup (if desired) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Prune and Ginger Chutney
This sweet and tangy chutney is perfect as a condiment or as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream. Prunes add natural sweetness while ginger adds a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted prunes
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine prunes, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, water, and grated ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chutney has thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and salt to taste.
4. Let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Prune and Brandy Clafoutis
A twist on the classic French clafoutis, this recipe combines sweet prunes with the warmth of brandy for a delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted prunes (such as Damson or Italian Prunes)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup brandy (or other fortified wine)
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine prunes, sugar, brandy, eggs, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into a 9-inch (23cm) round baking dish or ceramic mold.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until puffed and golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Prune and Bacon-Wrapped Dates
Elevate your appetizer game with this unique and delicious combination of prune, bacon, and dates. The sweet and sticky prunes perfectly complement the smoky bacon and natural sweetness of the dates.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 6 slices of cooked bacon
– 1/4 cup prunes, chopped
– Toothpicks (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut each slice of bacon in half.
3. Wrap a piece of bacon around the date, leaving a small portion uncovered at one end.
4. Place a few chopped prunes on top of the bacon-covered date.
5. If using toothpicks, use them to secure the bacon and prune combination.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the bacon is crispy.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Prune and Black Pepper Crackers
These savory crackers are perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and cheeses. With the sweetness of prunes and the depth of black pepper, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup prune butter (or chopped prunes)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flours, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add prune butter or chopped prunes to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
6. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Prune and Sesame Granola Bars
A sweet and savory treat that combines the natural sweetness of prunes with the nutty flavor of sesame seeds, perfect for a quick energy boost or a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup puffed rice cereal
– 1/2 cup chopped dates
– 1/4 cup chopped prunes
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, puffed rice cereal, dates, prunes, and sesame seeds.
3. In a small bowl, combine honey, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Prune and Rosemary Roasted Turkey
Elevate your holiday table with this unique and flavorful roasted turkey recipe, featuring sweet prunes and fragrant rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup pitted prunes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together prunes, olive oil, melted butter, and chopped rosemary.
4. Rub the prune-rosemary mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Season the turkey with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for about 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Prune and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
A unique and delicious twist on traditional ice cream, this recipe combines the sweet and tangy flavors of prunes with the creamy richness of vanilla bean.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup prune puree (see note)
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla bean powder
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the prune puree, salt, vanilla extract, and vanilla bean powder. Let cool to room temperature.
3. 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: None (chill and freeze only)
Prune and Caramelized Onion Flatbread
This Prune and Caramelized Onion Flatbread combines the natural sweetness of prunes with the deep flavor of caramelized onions, all wrapped up in a crispy flatbread crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup prunes, pitted and chopped
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
3. Add warm water and mix until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes.
4. Roll out dough into a thin sheet. Brush with olive oil.
5. Spread prunes and caramelized onions (see note) evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
6. Fold edges of dough up over filling to form a crust.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: To caramelize onions, cook sliced onions in butter over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until dark and sweet.
Prune and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, combining the natural sweetness of prunes with the nutty flavor of quinoa. The result is a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup pitted prunes, chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together quinoa, prunes, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the quinoa mixture, filling to the top.
4. Drizzle the tops with olive oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Prune and Cardamom Rice Pudding
A warm and comforting dessert that combines the sweetness of prunes with the aromatic spice of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup pitted prunes, chopped
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, milk, heavy cream, sugar, and ground cardamom.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped prunes and salt.
5. Let cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Prune and Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your vegetable game with this sweet and tangy twist on traditional roasted Brussels sprouts. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons prunes, chopped
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. During the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle chopped prunes and balsamic glaze over the sprouts.
6. Return to oven and continue to roast for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the glaze is sticky and the sprouts are coated.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the versatility of prunes with these 20 delectable recipes that will satisfy both sweet and savory cravings. From Prune and Walnut Stuffed Chicken to Prune-Infused Vanilla Bean Ice Cream, this collection offers a wide range of dishes that showcase the fruit’s unique flavor and texture. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like Prune and Almond Tart or adventurous like Prune and Bacon-Wrapped Dates, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with this often-underutilized ingredient.
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