Rumtopf Preserved Fruit in Rum Recipe – European Special
Rumtopf preserved fruit is a traditional German treat celebrating the bounty of seasonal fruits layered with sugar and steeped in rum. As the mixed fruits macerate, their natural juices soften the sugar and meld with the rum, creating a syrupy, aromatic mixture that’s intensely flavorful. This preserved fruit in rum transforms into a dessert topper, a festive addition to cocktails, or an indulgent solo snack. When the flavors mature, the Rumtopf becomes a gorgeous reflection of summer in jar form.
- Prep Time5 hr
- Perform Time1,524 hr
- Total Time1,529 hr
Rumtopf: German Preserved Fruit in Rum Ingredients:
- 2 lbs mixed seasonal fruits (e.g., strawberries, cherries, peaches, plums, raspberries)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 liter dark rum (or a good quality white rum)
- Optional: spices (like cinnamon sticks or vanilla beans) for added flavor
Prepare the Fruit:
Wash and Cut: Wash the fruits thoroughly. Depending on the fruit, pit or slice them as necessary (e.g., halve cherries, slice peaches).
Layer with Sugar: In a large glass or ceramic jar, layer the prepared fruit with granulated sugar. Let it sit for a few hours or until the fruit releases its juices.
Add Rum:
Pour the Rum: Once the fruit has released some juice, pour the dark rum over the fruit, ensuring all the fruit is submerged.
Add Spices: If desired, add cinnamon sticks or vanilla beans for additional flavor.
Seal and Store:
Seal the Jar: Cover the jar tightly with a lid or plastic wrap.
Store in a Cool, Dark Place: Let the Rumtopf sit in a cool, dark place for at least 4-6 weeks. The flavors will meld and deepen over time.
Serve:
Taste and Enjoy: After the resting period, the Rumtopf is ready to enjoy! Serve it chilled, either on its own or over ice cream, pancakes, or cakes.
Recipe Notes:
Fruit Variety: Choose a mix of berries, stone fruits, and cherries for color, texture, and flavor balance; ripeness matters for sweetness.
Sugar Adjustment: Adjust sugar amount depending on how ripe or tart your fruits are to avoid overly syrupy sweetness.
Storage Duration: Rumtopf should rest in a cool, dark place for at least 4-6 weeks so flavors deepen; stored properly, it can last many months.
Serving Suggestions: Serve Rumtopf chilled over ice cream, stirred into sparkling water or cocktails, or spooned atop pancakes or cakes as a flavorful accompaniment.
