If you’ve ever had too many ripe plums and wondered what to do with them before they spoil, you’ve likely asked yourself: can you freeze plums?

Whether they’re from your garden, a farmers’ market, or the local supermarket, freezing plums is a brilliant way to extend their shelf life and reduce food waste.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to freeze plums properly, what methods work best, how long they last, and what to do with them after freezing.

You’ll also get answers to common questions like can you freeze plums whole? and can you freeze plums with the stones in?

Can You Freeze Plums at All? – Is It Safe and Practical?

Yes — you can freeze plums, and they freeze very well. Freezing is one of the easiest and most effective ways to preserve plums long term.

Once frozen, they can last for up to six months in a typical UK freezer without losing their flavour.

Freezing works for all types of plums, including:

• Victoria plums
• Damson plums
• Greengages
• Black and red plums

Just keep in mind that the texture will soften after thawing, so frozen plums are best used for cooking, baking, blending, or making jam.

Can You Freeze Plums Whole?

Yes, you can freeze plums whole — and it’s probably the simplest method if you’re short on time.

What are the Benefits of freezing whole plums?

• No prep needed — just wash and freeze
• Retain more moisture and flavour
• Great for smoothies or sauces

However, whole plums take longer to defrost, and they’re harder to pit after thawing. If you’re planning to use them for cooking or baking, it’s often better to slice and pit them first for convenience.

Can You Freeze Plums with the Stones In?

Yes — you can freeze plums with the stones in, but it’s not usually recommended unless you plan to eat them straight from the freezer or use them for blending.

Why You Can Freeze Plums with the Stones In?

• Stones can cause the plums to split or crack as they freeze
• Harder to use in recipes once thawed
• May affect flavour slightly during long storage

If you’re freezing plums for pies, tarts, chutneys, or compotes, it’s best to remove the stones first.

Whole vs Sliced: What’s the Best Way to Freeze Plums?

It depends on how you’ll use them later. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Freezing Method	Best Use Cases	Pros	Cons
Whole plums	Smoothies, snacking	Quick and easy prep, retain more juice	Harder to pit later, slower thawing
Sliced or halved	Baking, jam, compotes	Fast to defrost, easier to cook with	Requires upfront preparation

What Can You Do with Frozen Plums?

Frozen plums are incredibly versatile and can be used in both sweet and savoury recipes. Whether you thaw them fully or use them from frozen, here are some great ways to put them to use:

• Make plum crumbles or pies
• Add to smoothies or shakes
• Simmer into a compote or sauce
• Use in jam or chutney
• Add to yogurt or porridge
• Roast with pork or duck for a tangy glaze

What are the Tips for Freezing Plums in UK Households?

If you’re freezing plums often, especially from your own garden, a little planning goes a long way. Here are some helpful tips:

• Freeze them in summer, when UK plums are at their peak
• Always label containers with the freezing date and plum variety
• Store in the coldest part of your freezer to maintain quality
• Use within 6 months for the best taste and texture
• Avoid refreezing once thawed — use straight away in a recipe

Conclusion

So, can you freeze plums? Absolutely — and it’s one of the smartest ways to make the most of the plum season in the UK.

Whether you’re dealing with homegrown Victoria plums or store-bought Damsons, freezing helps you cut down on waste and enjoy rich plum flavours all year long.

Whether you choose to freeze them whole or sliced, with or without the stones, you’ve got options. Just follow the easy steps outlined above, and your freezer can become a year-round plum pantry.

Related Article: When Are Plums Ready to Pick in the UK? A Seasonal Guide from My Orchard

FAQs About Can You Freeze Plums

1. Can you freeze plums without removing the stone?

Yes, but it’s better to remove the stones before freezing if you’re planning to cook or bake with them later.

2. Do you need to peel plums before freezing?

No, plum skin freezes well and softens during cooking. You can leave it on.

3. How long do frozen plums last?

They last up to 6 months in the freezer without losing flavour. They’re still safe after that but may lose texture.

4. Can you use frozen plums in jam?

Yes, frozen plums are perfect for jam-making. You can use them straight from the freezer — no need to thaw first.

5. Do plums need blanching before freezing?

Not at all. Plums freeze well raw — just wash, cut, and freeze.