How to Dry Plums Without a Fruit Dryer (7 Steps)

Dry plums using a centuries-old technique requiring no electricity or pricey equipment. With the power of the sun, you can dry plums to preserve them for later use. Plums require several days to properly dehydrate. Choose a warm, dry week for this project for the fastest, quickest results.

Things You'll Need

  • Paper towels
  • Knife
  • 2 large plastic, stainless steel or Teflon-coated screens
  • Clean piece of cheesecloth larger then the screens
  • 2 to 4 bricks or heavy rocks
  • Airtight container with lid

Instructions

  1. Wash the plums with soap and water and dry with paper towels.

  2. Cut each plum in half and remove the pit in the center, discarding it.

  3. Scrub the screens with soap and water and let them dry completely before use.

  4. Lay one screen in a sunny spot and place the plums, cut side up on top.

  5. Drape the cheesecloth over the plums and top with the second screen.

  6. Place bricks or rocks on top of the second screen to weigh it down, keeping it in place during the drying process.

  7. Leave the plums in the sunny spot to dry during the day for four to five days or until visible signs of moisture vanish.