Christmas Prunes Appetizer
Sweet and savory prunes stuffed with almonds, wrapped in bacon, and glazed with sherry or brandy, creating a festive appetizer perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover dried prunes with cold water and bring to a boil.
- Simmer the prunes for about 20 minutes until tender.
- Add sugar to the prunes and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Pour in 1/2 cup or more of sherry, brandy, or Port and stir.
- Place the mixture in a Mason jar and chill until needed.
- Blanch almonds and stuff them into the prunes before serving.
- Secure each prune with a wet wooden toothpick.
- Wrap each prune with bacon and broil until the bacon is crisp.
- Serve the prunes warm or chilled as an appetizer.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter twist, consider substituting honey for sugar. If you want a smokier flavor, try using smoked bacon. Make sure to soak the prunes long enough to ensure they are plump and tender. You can also experiment with different types of nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for stuffing. This appetizer pairs beautifully with American recipes like Low Country Shrimp & Grits.
Serving Suggestions
These prunes make an excellent appetizer for holiday gatherings. Serve them alongside a cheese platter or with crackers for added texture. They pair well with sparkling wine or a light-bodied red wine. For a complete spread, consider serving them with Corn O'Brian or Church Women United Vegetable Soup as part of a festive meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover prunes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place the prunes in a baking dish and warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also re-broil briefly if you want the bacon to regain its crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Prunes Appetizer contains roughly 63 calories, with 3g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 4g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare these prunes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the prunes up to a few days in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the chilling step and store them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, stuff with almonds, wrap with bacon, and broil just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I use if I don't have sherry?
If you don't have sherry, you can substitute with brandy or Port wine, which will give a similar depth of flavor. For a non-alcoholic option, try using apple cider or a mixture of grape juice and vinegar to mimic the sweetness and acidity.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and consider using a plant-based bacon alternative or leave them unwrapped. You might also enhance the flavor by adding a touch of liquid smoke to the prunes before chilling.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).