Dried Fruit Cordial
A rich, fruity cordial with deep flavors from dried fruits and spirits, perfect for gifting or enjoying as a flavorful liqueur alternative for those who appreciate homemade infusions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix wine, brandy, and sugar in a glass or ceramic container, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add the dried fruit and cover tightly.
- Store in a cool, dry place for at least a month, preferably longer.
- Dried fruit will swell in the liquid, so use widemouthed containers.
- Strain off the cordial and reserve the fruit for topping.
- You can give the combination of fruit and cordial together as a gift.
- This recipe is adaptable to any dried fruit, so feel free to experiment.
- Even prunes make a delicious cordial, but you may want to call it plum liqueur.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure the sugar is fully dissolved before adding the dried fruit to create a smooth cordial. Experiment with different combinations of dried fruits, but keep in mind that fruits like prunes can create a richer flavor profile, making it a delightful alternative known as plum liqueur. For a unique twist, consider adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla to enhance the taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cordial chilled or at room temperature in small glasses. It pairs beautifully with desserts like cheese platters, chocolate, or even as a drizzle over vanilla ice cream. You can also use it to elevate cocktails or simply enjoy it on its own. Consider giving the combination of fruit and cordial together as a gift for a personal touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cordial in a cool, dark place to allow the flavors to meld. After straining, the cordial can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a year. The reserved fruit can be stored in an airtight container and used as a topping for desserts or mixed into yogurt for a delicious snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dried Fruit Cordial contains roughly 132 calories, with 1g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value).
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
How long should I let the cordial steep?
For the best flavor, allow the dried fruit cordial to steep for at least a month. However, the longer it sits, the richer the flavors will become, so feel free to let it steep for several months if you can wait.
Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
Using fresh fruit is not recommended as it can introduce too much moisture, leading to fermentation instead of infusion. Stick with dried fruits for this recipe to achieve the desired flavor and consistency.
What should I do with the reserved fruit?
The reserved fruit can be used in various ways, such as a topping for desserts, mixed into oatmeal or yogurt, or even enjoyed on its own as a sweet snack. It's a delicious way to complement the cordial.
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).