Easy Spiced Plum Compote

Name: Easy Spiced Plum Compote
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 500 g plums; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp agave syrup; ½ tsp ground cinnamon; ¼ tsp ground cloves

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This easy spiced plum compote gives the traditional Austrian sweet side a healthy spin. It does with only 5 ingredients and comes without refined sugar.

plum compote in grey bowl with vintage spoon on dusty rose plate

This easy spiced plum compote celebrates the rich, natural flavors of the seasonal produce. Moreover, the aromatic compote is enhanced by a blend of vanilla, cinnamon, and clove. The best part? It only takes 20 minutes to prepare this healthy sweet treat.

Like a fruity and nutritious and delicious compote? Try this quick mixed berry compote to serve with yogurt, waffles, pancakes, and much more.

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What is compote?
Is this plum compote healthy?
Why you'll love this recipe
Ingredient notes
Tips and substitutions
How to make plum compote
What to serve with this easy spiced p
Recipe FAQs
More summer fruit recipes
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What is compote?

A compote consists of fruits cooked with a sweetener and spices until broken down. Unlike jam, compote still has chunks of fruit in them. Moreover, compote is easier and quicker to make than jam. But this also makes jam last longer than compote.

Classic Austrian dishes like Topfenknödel (curd dumplings) or Kaiserschmarren (sliced thick pancake) would not be complete with a side of plum compote. Or, as we like to say in Austria - Zwetschkenröster.

When reminiscing, I always have my strongest memories when they include food. I remember helping my grandma make dumplings and other doughy desserts as a kid. It always fascinated me how she turned simple ingredients into uber-delicious dishes.

I learned from an early age that the quality of the ingredients is key to getting the best result. When making this plum compote, choose fruits and vegetables in season and buy local, if you can.

Is this plum compote healthy?

While I like the taste of this sweet side, I am not a fan of the amount of sugar the traditional recipe calls for. When it comes to sugar, plum compote is a heavy hitter. So, I experimented in the kitchen to make a refined sugar-free version of the flavourful dessert.

This plum compote recipe skips refined sugar and replaces it with just a bit of agave syrup. It provides the right amount of sweetness without being too overpowering. This way, you can better taste the fresh plums cooked to perfection!

Why you'll love this recipe

Versatile delight – This spiced plum compote is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as a breakfast topping, dessert sauce, or standalone treat.
Simple and quick – This recipe is easy to follow and quick to make. In about 20 minutes, you can whip up a batch of this delicious compote, making it a perfect choice for last-minute dessert cravings.
Natural and nutritious – Using agave syrup as a sweetener offers a healthier alternative to refined sugars. Moreover, plums are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making this a naturally nutritious treat.
Seasonal pleasure – Utilize the plum season and enjoy the fresh, juicy flavors at its peak. This recipe with plums allows you to make the most of seasonal produce.
Customizable – You have control over the sweetness level. Adjust the agave syrup to suit your taste, making it as sweet or tart as you like.

Ingredient notes

Plums – Use organic and ripe plums. The riper they are, the sweeter the compote will be. Also, try to buy plums when they are in season. Then they have the best taste.
Vanilla extract – I love to use vanilla extract when making desserts. It rounds out the tangy taste of the plums.
Agave syrup – This plum compote does without refined sugar. A bit of agave syrup is enough to give it the right amount without being too sweet. You can also use maple syrup instead of agave syrup.
Ground cinnamon – You can substitute the ground cinnamon with a cinnamon stick for this recipe. Remove it before serving.
Ground cloves – In combination with cinnamon, ground cloves make a heavenly flavor. Don't have ground cloves? Use 2 whole ones, and remove them after cooking.

Tips and substitutions

Choose ripe fruits – Opt for ripe plums that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. Ripe plums will be sweeter and more flavorful.
Leave the skin on – Skip peeling the plums. The skin is delicious to eat with them. Moreover, the plum peel contains vitamins and minerals.
Don't overcook – Be mindful not to overcook the plums. They should be tender but still hold their shape. Overcooking can result in a mushy texture.
Stir occasionally – While simmering, stir the compote occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Vary the fruits – Try this delicious compote recipe with other fruits like apples, pears, and berries. Softer fruits will have a shorter cooking time, while firmer fruits will take longer.

How to make plum compote

Step 1: Wash the plums, cut them in half, and remove the stones. If you have bigger plums, cut them into quarters.

Step 2: Heat a pot over medium heat. Put in the plums with the ground cinnamon, ground cloves, agave syrup, and vanilla extract. Add 2-4 tablespoons of water and stir. Cover with a lid.

Step 3: Cook the compote over medium to low heat for about 15 minutes until the plums are soft and the compote thickens, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Serve warm or let cool and serve cold with yogurt, pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, chia seed pudding, and more.

What to serve with this easy spiced p

I already mentioned the traditional Austrian dishes served with plum compote, like Topfenknödel and Kaiserschmarren. But this plum compote is also delicious eaten with other breakfast and sweet treats:

Yogurt – Spoon the plum compote over Greek yogurt, regular yogurt, or dairy-free yogurt for a delightful and healthy breakfast. Or add it to this crunchy berry and yogurt parfait.
Oatmeal – Add a dollop of plum compote to this apple cinnamon oatmeal or banana porridge for extra flavor.
Pancakes and waffles – Use the compote as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or crepes, along with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Ice cream – Serve the plum compote as a warm topping over this peanut butter banana nice cream or almond dark chocolate nice cream for a satisfying dessert.
Cheesecake – Pair the compote with a slice of cheesecake for a delightful contrast of creamy and fruity flavors.
Meats – Use this spiced plum compote for grilled or roasted meats such as pork, beef, duck, or turkey.
Charcuterie board – Include the compote as a sweet element on a spread like this easy easter charcuterie board, and use seasonal fruit and vegetables.

Recipe FAQs

What fruits pair well with plums?

Plums have a sweet and slightly tart flavor that pairs well with fruits like berries, oranges, other stone fruits, bananas, figs, and much more. Pair them with your favorite fruits and enjoy the aromatic combination.

How do I store this plum compote?

Before refrigerating, let the plum compote cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Place the sealed container in the refrigerator and store it for up to a week.

Can I freeze plum compote?

You can freeze plum compote to extend its shelf life. It can be frozen for up to 3-6 months, depending on how well it's sealed and the overall freezer temperature.

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