As the days begin to cool and the leaves shift to shades of amber, there’s something truly comforting about embracing the flavors of the season. I found myself happily immersed in the kitchen, piecing together this Easy Spiced Plum Crisp on one of those crisp autumn afternoons. The rich aroma of cinnamon mingling with warm, roasted plums instantly fills my home with a sense of nostalgia and warmth. This simple dessert is like a cozy blanket; its tender fruit filling sits beneath a crunchy, pecan-laden topping that perfectly flavors the transition from summer sweetness to fall spice.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility—whether you have plums or a medley of seasonal fruit hybrids, you can easily make it your own! Ideal for a gathering or a quiet night in, this Spiced Plum Crisp is not just a dessert, it’s a heartwarming experience that invites everyone to curl up with a serving, perhaps topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that captures the essence of home cooking at its finest!
Why is Spiced Plum Crisp a Must-Try?
Comforting Warmth: The delightful blend of juicy plums and warm spices creates a nostalgic flavor experience that’s perfect for cozy fall evenings.
Easy to Make: With simple steps, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels, ensuring anyone can whip it up with ease.
Versatile Ingredients: Use any mix of seasonal fruits you have on hand! Whether it’s plums, peaches, or cherries, you can customize your crisp to suit your taste.
Perfect for Sharing: This dish transforms any gathering into a heartwarming occasion, inviting guests to enjoy a slice topped with creamy ice cream.
Make Ahead: Save time by preparing the crisp topping in advance; it can be stored in the fridge or freezer, ready to bake when you need it.
Discover more about comforting desserts in our section on easy dessert recipes!
Spiced Plum Crisp Ingredients
• Whip up your cozy dessert with these essentials!
For the Topping
- All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the topping; you can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Thick rolled oats – Adds texture and chewiness; instant oats work in a pinch but may tweak the crispiness.
- Brown sugar – Offers sweetness with a hint of molasses; white sugar will alter the flavor slightly.
- Fine sea salt – Enhances flavors throughout; kosher salt is a handy alternative if that’s what you have.
- Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice; consider nutmeg for a different aromatic twist.
- Cardamom – Introduces an exotic fragrance; allspice can stand in if cardamom is not available.
- Butter (cold) – Guarantees a flaky topping; swap in vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
- Chopped pecans – Brings crunch and nuttiness; feel free to substitute walnuts or omit for a nut-free option.
For the Filling
- Plums (3 lbs.) – The star element providing juiciness and flavor; you can mix in pluots or apriums for variety.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup) – Sweetens the plum filling; adjust to account for the plums’ natural sweetness.
- Lemon (1 medium, zested & juiced) – Adds brightness to the dish; lime juice is a zesty alternative.
- Tapioca flour/cornstarch/all-purpose flour (1-2 tablespoons) – Thickens the fruit filling depending on juiciness; adjust based on fruit moisture for your Spiced Plum Crisp.
How to Make Spiced Plum Crisp
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Prepare Equipment: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9-10 inch skillet or baking dish. This creates a non-stick surface for your delightful crisp.
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Make the Crisp Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, thick rolled oats, brown sugar, fine sea salt, cinnamon, and cardamom. Work in the cold butter with your fingers until the mixture becomes crumbly. Stir in the chopped pecans, then refrigerate the topping to keep it chilly.
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Prepare the Plum Filling: In a large bowl, toss the plums with lemon juice and zest, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Let it sit for 10 minutes, allowing the plums to release their juices before stirring in the starch to thicken. Wait an additional 3 minutes for it to set.
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Assemble: Spoon the tangy plum filling into your prepared baking dish and evenly crumble the chilled topping over the fruit. Make sure the topping covers the filling nicely for that golden-brown finish.
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Bake: Place your assembled crisp on a lined baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the fruit bubbles and the topping turns a lovely golden brown color. This is when the magic happens!
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Cool and Serve: Allow your Spiced Plum Crisp to cool for 30 minutes before diving in. Enjoy it warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for that extra treat!
Optional: Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving for a touch of indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Spiced Plum Crisp
- Cold Butter Is Key: Ensure your butter is cold when making the crisp topping; this leads to a flaky texture that’s irresistible.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the topping just until crumbly, as overmixing can lead to a dense topping rather than the light, airy one desired for the Spiced Plum Crisp.
- Use Fresh Fruit: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh plums; if using frozen, increase the thickening agent slightly due to extra moisture.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste your plums first! Adjust the granulated sugar in the filling based on their sweetness to keep your dessert balanced.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the crisp to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving; this helps the filling set and prevents it from being too soupy.
How to Store and Freeze Spiced Plum Crisp
- Fridge: Store cooled Spiced Plum Crisp in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Simply reheat in the oven at 300°F for about 20 minutes for the best results.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the crisp tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Once thawed, reheat in the oven at 300°F for 20-25 minutes until warmed through and the topping is crispy again.
- Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the topping in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for a month, making it easy to whip up your Spiced Plum Crisp whenever the craving strikes!
What to Serve with Spiced Plum Crisp?
Indulging in a warm Spiced Plum Crisp opens the door to delightful meal pairings that complement its comforting sweet and spicy notes.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold dessert contrasts beautifully with warm crisp, enhancing your tasting experience with rich creaminess.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds airiness and balances the dish’s sweetness, creating a delightful mouthfeel.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the crisp takes your dessert to a decadent level, beautifully enhancing the flavors of the plums.
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Coffee or Espresso: A hot cup of coffee perfectly balances out the sweet and spicy notes, turning dessert into a cozy afternoon or evening ritual.
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Sweet Red Wines: Pair your crisp with a fruity sweet red for a lovely contrast; the wine’s flavors elevate the fruitiness of the dessert.
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Cinnamon Tea: Emphasize the warm spices of the crisp with a steaming cup of cinnamon tea, creating a comforting and soothing treat.
Enjoy the delightful mix of textures and flavors, making each bite an experience to savor.
Make Ahead Options
These Spiced Plum Crisp components are ideal for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the crisp topping up to 3 days in advance; just keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and texture. Additionally, you could slice the plums and toss them with lemon juice and sugar, storing this mixture in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy your dessert, simply assemble the chilled plum filling and crumble the topping over it, then bake as directed. This way, you’ll experience just as delicious results with minimal effort, allowing you to savor the warm flavors of autumn!
Spiced Plum Crisp Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own by exploring these delightful options!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version.
- Nut-Free: Omit the pecans or swap them with pumpkin seeds for a crunchy texture without the nuts.
- Fruit Medley: Mix in peaches, cherries, or even apples for a unique twist that celebrates fall’s bounty.
- Vegan: Use coconut oil or vegan butter in the topping and skip the egg for a completely plant-based crisp.
- Cinnamon Options: For a different spice profile, experiment by replacing half of the cinnamon with ground ginger for warmth.
- Coconut Crunch: Add shredded coconut to the topping for a tropical twist that contrasts beautifully with the fruity filling.
- Extra Sweetness: Drizzle some honey or maple syrup over the plum filling before adding the topping for added sweetness and flavor complexity.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness of the plums.
Let your imagination run wild and enjoy the process of creating a fabulous Spiced Plum Crisp that reflects your unique taste!
Spiced Plum Crisp Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting plums?
Absolutely! When selecting plums, choose ones that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. A ripe plum will have a subtle sweetness and a rich color. Avoid plums with dark spots all over, as these may indicate overripeness or spoilage.
How should I store leftover Spiced Plum Crisp?
Very easy! Store your cooled Spiced Plum Crisp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. For the best flavor, reheat it in the oven at 300°F for about 20 minutes before serving. This way, the topping will regain its delightful crispiness!
Can I freeze Spiced Plum Crisp?
Yes, you can! Allow the crisp to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then place in a preheated oven at 300°F for 20-25 minutes until warmed through and the topping is crispy again.
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What can I do if my topping is too crumbly or dense?
No worries! If your topping becomes too dense, it may be due to overmixing. When combining the cold butter and dry ingredients, aim for a light, crumbly texture rather than a doughy consistency. If it’s already baked and still too dense, serve it with a generous scoop of ice cream to balance the textures!
Are there any dietary considerations for my pets with this recipe?
Definitely! Keep in mind that plums are safe for dogs in moderation, but avoid sharing any crisp topping as it may contain ingredients harmful to them like sugar and butter. For any concerns, always check with your veterinarian first!
Can I substitute the fruit in the Spiced Plum Crisp?
The more the merrier! You can easily adapt this recipe using other fruits if plums aren’t available. Seasonal fruits like peaches, cherries, or even a mix of fresh berries will work beautifully. Just ensure to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose!
Irresistible Spiced Plum Crisp for Cozy Fall Evenings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9-10 inch skillet or baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, thick rolled oats, brown sugar, fine sea salt, cinnamon, and cardamom. Work in the cold butter until crumbly. Stir in chopped pecans and refrigerate.
- In a large bowl, toss plums with lemon juice and zest, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Let sit for 10 minutes, then stir in starch to thicken.
- Spoon plum filling into the baking dish and crumble the chilled topping over the filling.
- Bake on a lined baking sheet for 50-60 minutes until fruit bubbles and topping is golden brown.
- Allow to cool for 30 minutes before serving, optionally with ice cream or whipped cream.