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dried plums spilling out of a mason jar on a white and black checked towel
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Dehydrated Plums

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time8 hours
Course: Preserving, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: dehydrated plums, dried plums, How To dehydrate plums, how to dry plums
Servings: 8
Author: Amy

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1-5 pounds plums this depends on the size of the dehydrator or your baking sheets

Instructions

  • Rinse the plums under cool water to remove any dirt or debris.
  • Slice the plums in half, and carefully remove the pits from each plum using a sharp knife or a pitter.
  • Depending on the size of your plums, you can keep them in halves or slice into pieces about ¼ to ½ inch thick for optimal drying.
  • Once the plum slices are ready, you can choose to pre-treat them to prevent browning by dipping in lemon juice. While it's not necessary, pre-treating will help maintain the vibrant color of the plums. I usually skip this step.
  • Arrange the slices in a single layer on the dehydrator trays or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between the slices to allow for proper air circulation.
  • If using a dehydrator, set the temperature to around 135°F to 140°F (57°C to 60°C) and let the plums dry for approximately 8 to 24 hours.
  • You'll know the plums are fully dehydrated when they are pliable with no visible moisture. They may feel slightly sticky to the touch, but not moist.
  • To test their readiness, simply take a slice and let it cool for a few minutes. If it feels dry and leathery, your plums are ready for storage.

Notes

  • Choose plums that are ripe but still firm. This will ensure that they dehydrate evenly and retain their flavor and texture.
  • Before you start the dehydration process, make sure to wash the plums thoroughly and remove any stems or leaves. 
  • The drying time for plums can vary depending on factors such as humidity and the thickness of the slices. Generally, it can take anywhere from 8 to 24 hours for plums to become fully dehydrated.
  • To test if they are done, remove a slice from the dehydrator and let it cool for a few minutes. It should be leathery and slightly pliable, with no moisture remaining.
  • Once the plum slices are fully dehydrated, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.