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When the sun begins to set and the days grow shorter, there’s a simple joy in creating desserts that warm the heart and delight the senses. I recently found myself with a bounty of ripe, juicy plums, just waiting for the right moment to shine. That’s when inspiration struck: why not transform these beautiful fruits into something elegant yet effortless? Thus, my Poached Plum Coconut Cream Parfaits were born, an indulgence that marries tender, wine-poached plums with a luscious coconut whipped cream.

This plant-based treat isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it’s a harmonious blend of flavors with a gentle sweetness, making it perfect for a cozy gathering or a weeknight treat. Gluten-free, vegan, and low in sugar, this dessert fits beautifully into a modern dietary lifestyle while still feeling indulgent. Join me as I guide you through this delightful recipe that will surely impress your family and friends—without any of the fuss!

Why love Poached Plum Coconut Cream Parfaits?

Indulgent, yet Healthy: These parfaits combine the sweet, juicy goodness of wine-poached plums with airy coconut cream, making for an enticing yet guilt-free dessert.

Visually Stunning: Layering these vibrant plums with creamy goodness creates a beautiful dish that’s perfect for showcasing at gatherings.

Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or wine types to suit your taste preferences!

Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time for an elegant touch to your meals.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for a dinner party or a cozy night in, this vegan dessert is sure to impress guests, leaving them wanting more! Consider serving it alongside other delightful options to elevate your dessert table even further.

Poached Plum Coconut Cream Parfaits Ingredients

For the Poaching Liquid
• Sugar – Sweetens the poaching liquid; consider substituting with agave or stevia for a lower glycemic option.
• Rosé Wine – Infuses the plums with rich flavor; feel free to use red or white wine based on your preference.
• Vanilla Bean – Adds aromatic sweetness to enhance the fruit; vanilla extract works in a pinch but will be less intense.
• Lemon Zest – Brightens the poaching liquid; fresh lemon peel provides the best flavor and aroma.
• Salt – Enhances the sweetness of the fruit; kosher or sea salt works best for this recipe.
• Plums – Provides tartness and flavor; swap with peaches or nectarines for a delightful variation.

For the Coconut Cream
• Coconut Cream – The star of your whipped cream; chilled canned coconut cream creates the best texture.
• Agave Nectar (optional) – Adds extra sweetness to the coconut cream; note that honey is not vegan.

These delicious Poached Plum Coconut Cream Parfaits come together effortlessly, giving you a beautifully layered dessert everyone will love!

How to Make Poached Plum Coconut Cream Parfaits

Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, mix together sugar, rosé wine, split vanilla bean and seeds, lemon zest, and salt. Heat this mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, which should take about 1 minute.
Poach the Plums: Add the sliced plums into the saucepan. Simmer them gently for around 5 minutes until they’re tender. Once ready, use a slotted spoon to remove the plums and set them aside.
Prepare the Syrup: Increase the heat and bring the remaining liquid to a boil. Let it cook down for about 10 minutes until it reduces to around 1½ cups and has a syrupy consistency. Discard the vanilla bean, then return the plums to the syrup, gently tossing to coat.
Make the Coconut Cream: Chill a mixing bowl in the freezer for about 10 minutes. Scoop out the thick cream from the chilled coconut cans and beat it until smooth and creamy, typically around 1-2 minutes. If you’d like, add agave nectar for a touch of sweetness at this stage.
Assemble the Parfaits: In clear glasses, layer the poached plums with syrup and coconut cream alternately. For an added touch, consider garnishing with bee pollen or edible flowers to enhance the visual appeal.

Optional: Add a sprinkle of crushed pistachios on top for a delightful crunch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Poached Plum Coconut Cream Parfaits are perfect for busy home cooks! You can prepare the poached plums and coconut cream up to 24 hours ahead of time, allowing for quick assembly when it’s time to serve. Simply poach the plums and let them cool in their syrup before transferring them to an airtight container to refrigerate. For the coconut cream, chill it overnight (this helps it whip up beautifully), storing it separately. When ready to enjoy, just re-whip the coconut cream if needed, layer it with the plums in clear glasses, and add any toppings for a delightful finish. This prep-ahead approach allows you to enjoy a stunning dessert with minimal last-minute effort, making your gatherings that much easier!

How to Store and Freeze Poached Plum Coconut Cream Parfaits

Fridge: Store assembled parfaits covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best texture, consider keeping the poached plums and coconut cream in separate containers and layering them just before serving.

Freezer: If you need to freeze, separate the poached plums and coconut cream, as the cream may not maintain its texture. Freeze the plums for up to 2 months in an airtight container.

Reheating: To thaw frozen poached plums, place them in the fridge overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours. Avoid reheating them, as that can compromise their texture and flavor in your Poached Plum Coconut Cream Parfaits.

Make-Ahead: Both poached plums and coconut cream can be prepared in advance, making this dessert a fantastic option for entertaining. Assemble the parfaits just before serving for the freshest taste experience.

Poached Plum Coconut Cream Parfaits Variations

Feel free to explore new dimensions of flavor and texture in these delightful parfaits!

Fruit Swap: Replace plums with peaches or apricots to enjoy a different fruity flair that pairs wonderfully with coconut cream.
Wine Flavor: Try white wine for a lighter floral note, or experiment with dessert wines for a unique twist on sweetness.
Sweetness Level: Use agave nectar, monk fruit sweetener, or maple syrup in place of traditional sugar for a low-sugar delight without sacrificing flavor.
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the poaching liquid for a spiced warmth that elevates the overall experience.
Topping Ideas: Garnish with crushed pistachios or toasted coconut flakes to introduce a satisfying crunch and rich flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate orange zest along with the lemon for an added layer of brightness that complements the fruit beautifully.
Chill Options: For a more decadent twist, freeze the coconut cream into dollops before layering for a creamier, colder texture in each bite.
Heat It Up: Drizzle a bit of dark chocolate sauce over your assembled parfaits for a sumptuous twist that adds depth and richness.

Let your culinary creativity shine as you personalize these parfaits to make them uniquely yours!

Expert Tips for Poached Plum Coconut Cream Parfaits

Chill Thoroughly: Ensure your coconut cream is chilled overnight for the best texture; this helps achieve the light and fluffy consistency you desire.
Taste the Syrup: Before adding the plums, taste your poaching liquid to ensure it’s balanced; adjust sweetness or acidity as needed for perfect flavor in your poached plum coconut cream parfaits.
Layer for Impact: Use clear glasses to create a stunning visual effect with your layers; it enhances both the presentation and the overall experience of the dessert.
Experiment Textures: Feel free to add crunchy toppings like toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts; these add delightful contrast and depth to each bite.
Serve Fresh: Prepare the components ahead of time, but assemble your parfaits just before serving to preserve the texture and freshness of each layer.

What to Serve with Poached Plum Coconut Cream Parfaits?

Creating a lovely meal doesn’t have to be complex; the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience to new heights.

Chilled White Wine: A crisp, fruity wine complements the tartness of the plums beautifully. Choose a semi-sweet white or a sparkling wine to mirror the parfait’s flavors.
Almond Biscotti: The crunchy texture of biscotti provides a delightful contrast to the creamy coconut. Dip them in your wine for an elegant touch.
Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy berries like raspberries or blueberries offer a refreshing burst of flavor and a pop of color on the plate.
Toasted Coconut Flakes: Scatter these on top of your parfait for an extra layer of flavor and texture that ties in with the coconut whipped cream.
Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves provide a vibrant, aromatic note. They act as a palate cleanser and enhance the overall presentation.
Dark Chocolate Shavings: If you want to add a touch of decadence, a sprinkle of dark chocolate shavings will amplify the richness of the dessert while contrasting the sweetness.

Pairing these elements with your Poached Plum Coconut Cream Parfaits will create a meal that is not only pleasing for the senses but beautifully balanced, making any gathering feel like a special occasion.

Poached Plum Coconut Cream Parfaits Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe plums for poaching?
Absolutely! Look for plums that are plump, slightly soft to the touch, and have a vibrant color. A few minor blemishes are okay, but avoid any with dark spots all over as that indicates they might be overripe. For the best flavor, opt for organic varieties when possible.

What is the best way to store leftover parfaits?
You can store assembled parfaits covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, for optimal texture, I recommend keeping the poached plums and coconut cream in separate containers and layering them just before serving. This way, the cream remains airy and the plums stay juicy!

Can I freeze leftover poached plums?
Yes! To freeze, first ensure the poached plums are completely cooled. Place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use them, thaw by placing them in the fridge overnight or letting them sit at room temperature for a few hours.

What should I do if the coconut cream isn’t whipping up?
Very! If your coconut cream doesn’t whip up nicely, it might be due to insufficient chilling. Make sure to chill the cans overnight and only scoop out the thick part, leaving the liquid behind. If it still doesn’t whip, try adding a teaspoon of cornstarch to the cream as a stabilizer. Just beat it until fluffy!

Is this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies?
Definitely! This recipe is vegan and gluten-free, making it a great choice for various dietary preferences. Since it contains coconut, ensure your guests are not allergic to it. Coconut is technically a fruit, but always check if there’s any cross-contamination in products used if someone has severe allergies.

Can I use a different sweetener for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute sugar in the poaching liquid with agave syrup, monk fruit sweetener, or even maple syrup for a lower glycemic index. Just remember to adjust the quantities based on your desired sweetness level—start with a similar amount and taste as you go!