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There’s something incredibly refreshing about biting into a perfectly ripe plum, don’t you think? The first taste hits you with a burst of sweet and tart notes, and as the juices run down your chin, it feels like summer has arrived. Inspired by those delightful moments, I created this vibrant Plum Sorbet, an easy-to-make, vegan-friendly frozen treat that’s perfect for cooling off on sun-drenched days.

This sorbet captures the essence of plums, transforming their luscious juiciness into a silky, frozen delight that’s both incredibly satisfying and guilt-free. With just a handful of ingredients, including fresh plums, a touch of sugar, and a splash of lemon juice, you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to whip up this refreshing dessert. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply seeking a delightful way to beat the heat, this Plum Sorbet promises to be the showstopper you didn’t realize you needed. So grab those plums and let’s dive into this sweet and tart adventure!

Why is Plum Sorbet the Perfect Summer Treat?

Refreshing and vibrant, this Plum Sorbet will transport you to a sun-kissed afternoon!
Vegan-friendly and guilt-free, it delights with natural fruit sweetness.
Easy to make, you can whip it up with just a few ingredients.
Perfect for gatherings, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with fresh fruit or a splash of sparkling wine.
Quick prep time means more summer fun and less kitchen time! Get ready to enjoy this delightful dessert that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate!

Plum Sorbet Ingredients

For the Sorbet

Plums – Use fresh, ripe purple plums for the best flavor and natural sweetness; alternatives like Reine Claude or Mirabelle may need added acidity for balance.
Sugar – This sweetens your sorbet and contributes to a smooth texture; for a softer sorbet, substitute with 1/3 cup of sugar and 2 tablespoons of light corn syrup.
Corn Syrup – An optional ingredient for enhancing texture; if omitted, expect a firmer sorbet.
Kirsch or Maraschino Liqueur/Vodka – Adds depth of flavor and helps keep the texture soft; for a non-alcoholic version, you can leave it out but expect a firmer final result.
Fresh Lemon Juice – Brightens the overall flavor profile and adds necessary acidity to balance the sweetness in your Plum Sorbet.

How to Make Plum Sorbet

Prepare the Plums: Pit and slice the plums, placing them into a saucepan with 1/4 cup of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the plums are soft, about 10-15 minutes. Allow them to cool to room temperature.
Puree the Mixture: Once cooled, puree the cooked plums in a blender or food processor until you achieve about 2 cups of smooth plum puree.
Dissolve the Sugar: In the same saucepan, mix the sugar (or sugar plus corn syrup) with 1/2 cup of the plum puree over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved, which should take about 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients: Mix the sugar mixture with the remaining plum puree. Stir in the kirsch or maraschino liqueur and a few drops of fresh lemon juice for that added zing. Chill this mixture thoroughly, preferably overnight.
Churn the Sorbet: Once chilled, freeze the mixture in an ice cream machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20–25 minutes, or until it reaches a creamy consistency.
Freeze and Enjoy: Transfer the sorbet to a container and freeze it for an additional 2-3 hours to firm up before serving.

Optional: Serve garnished with fresh mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Plum Sorbet Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your plum sorbet and explore delightful twists that will elevate your homemade treat!

Berry Burst: Mix in a cup of fresh or frozen berries for a vibrant mixed fruit sorbet bursting with flavor. Strawberries or raspberries pair beautifully with plums, adding an extra dimension of tartness.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or a few slices of jalapeño for a surprising kick of heat. This unexpected warmth pairs perfectly with the sweet plum base, tantalizing your taste buds!
Coconut Creamy: Substitute 1/2 cup of water with coconut milk to introduce a creamy tropical flavor. The coconut adds a luscious texture, transforming your sorbet into a delightful island escape.
Herbal Infusion: Add a handful of fresh mint or basil during the cooking process for an aromatic infusion. The herbs will infuse the sorbet with a refreshing twist, brightening each scoop!
Tropical Twist: Blend in some mango or pineapple puree along with the plum for a tropical vibe. The combination offers a heavenly taste reminiscent of summer vacations.
Nutty Touch: Drizzle in a tablespoon of toasted almond or hazelnut oil for a hint of nuttiness. This subtle depth enhances the overall flavor, adding a gourmet flair to your sorbet.
Alcohol Options: For a different depth of flavor, try swapping kirsch with limoncello or rum. Each spirit brings its own unique twist, complementing the sweetness of the plums beautifully.
Zesty Citrus: Experiment with different citrus juices like lime or orange for a zesty contrast. The bright acidity will elevate the sweetness of the plums, creating a perfectly balanced dessert.

How to Store and Freeze Plum Sorbet

Fridge: Store any uneaten sorbet in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container; this helps maintain the flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, keep your plum sorbet in the freezer for up to 3 weeks; ensure it’s tightly covered to prevent ice crystals from forming.
Reheating: To serve, take the sorbet out of the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.
Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare your plum sorbet several days in advance; just keep it well-covered in the freezer until you’re ready to serve!

Make Ahead Options

This Plum Sorbet is a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the plum puree and sugar mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it to chill thoroughly. Just cook the plums, puree them, and mix with sugar as directed. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent any unwanted flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply churn the chilled mixture in your ice cream maker to achieve a smooth texture. This way, you’ll have a refreshing treat waiting for you, letting you savor summer all week long without the fuss of last-minute preparation!

Expert Tips for Perfect Plum Sorbet

Select Ripe Plums: Choose plums that are perfectly ripe for the best flavor. Avoid ones that are too hard or overly squishy to ensure a balanced tartness.
Cooking is Key: Don’t skip cooking the plums; this enhances their natural flavors and prevents bitterness, allowing the plum sorbet to shine with deliciousness.
Chill Thoroughly: Make sure to chill your mixture overnight for optimal texture. This step ensures your plum sorbet has a smooth, creamy consistency when churned.
Use the Right Sweetener: If substituting sugar with corn syrup, keep in mind that it will create a softer sorbet, while using pure sugar will yield a firmer texture.
Scoop with Ease: Remove your sorbet from the freezer 5-10 minutes before serving. This will make scooping much easier, letting you enjoy your refreshing plum sorbet without hassle!

What to Serve with Plum Sorbet?

Indulging in a refreshing plum sorbet is just the beginning; let’s elevate your summer dessert experience with these delightful pairings.

Fresh Berries: Bright and juicy, berries like strawberries and raspberries bring out the sorbet’s tartness and add a pop of color to your plate.
Mint Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh mint not only adds a burst of lovely color but also infuses a refreshing aroma that complements the fruity flavors beautifully.
Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly not only refreshes but enhances the sweetness of the sorbet, making every spoonful feel celebratory.
Almond Biscotti: Crunchy and slightly sweet, biscotti offers a delightful textural contrast alongside the creamy sorbet, making every bite a new adventure.
Lemon Sorbet Duo: Pair with a refreshing lemon sorbet for a duo that dances on your palate, balancing sweetness and tartness fantastically.
Creamy Coconut Milk: Drizzling with coconut milk adds a tropical twist and smooth creaminess that elevates the entire experience.
Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate adds a touch of decadence, enhancing the overall flavor profile with rich notes.
Fruit Salad: A side of chilled fruit salad with seasonal fruits complements the sorbet’s flavors while offering a fresh texture that’s light on the palate.

Plum Sorbet Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best plums for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for plums that are firm but slightly yielding to gentle pressure—this indicates perfect ripeness. Avoid plums with dark spots all over or those that feel mushy; they won’t provide the bright, tart flavor you want for a delightful sorbet.

How long can I store Plum Sorbet in the freezer?
I recommend keeping it in the freezer for up to 3 weeks. Make sure it’s tightly covered to prevent any ice crystals from forming, which can affect its smooth texture. To maintain the best flavor, try to consume it within that timeframe!

Can I freeze Plum Sorbet after it’s been churned?
Yes, indeed! After churning, transfer the sorbet to an airtight container and freeze it for an additional 2–3 hours to firm up before serving. This step ensures you achieve that desirable creamy texture.

What should I do if my sorbet is too hard?
No worries! If your Plum Sorbet is hard, remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes. This will allow it to soften slightly, making it easier to scoop. If you prefer a softer texture next time, consider adding a bit of corn syrup or using less sugar.

Is this recipe safe for those with allergies?
Very! This Plum Sorbet is naturally vegan-friendly and does not contain dairy or eggs. However, if you’re concerned about allergies, always double-check the ingredients for added sweetness or alcohol. If you’re serving it to guests, it might be a good idea to share the ingredients list in case of any dietary restrictions.

How do I make this sorbet non-alcoholic?
You can easily omit the kirsch or maraschino liqueur. Just know that while you will miss some depth of flavor, the tartness from the plums and lemon juice will still shine through. For an even smoother texture, allow it to sit out for a few minutes before serving!