Dried Plums for Babies

Complete guide on how to prepare and serve dried plums to your baby, by age.

High in FiberNatural LaxativeAntioxidant-RichIron SourceImmune-Supportive

Safety Information

Allergen Risk

Very Low (1/5)

Choking Hazard

High (4/5)

6–9 Months 9–18 Months 18+ Months

How to Serve Dried Plums to a 6–9 Months Old

How to Cut

Dried plums, also known as prunes, can pose a significant choking risk if served whole or even halved. For this age group, always soak dried plums in hot water until very soft, then finely mash or purée until completely smooth, checking for any remaining tough skins or pieces. Avoid offering whole or chopped prunes to babies under 9 months. The purée can be served on its own, stirred into warm cereals, or mixed with yogurt to introduce new flavors and support healthy digestion.

Serving Instructions

For babies 6-9 months, dried plums should be offered as a smooth purée after soaking in hot water until very soft. Serve about 1-2 teaspoons (5-10g/0.18-0.35oz) as part of a balanced meal rich in iron (such as oatmeal or iron-fortified baby cereal) and pair with a source of healthy fats (like full-fat yogurt) to support nutrient absorption. Avoid offering whole pieces, as they pose a choking risk. Introduce new foods one at a time to monitor for any reactions and offer prunes no more than once a day to help with digestion.

How to Serve Dried Plums to a 9–18 Months Old

How to Cut

For children in this age group, dried plums should still be softened by soaking in warm water until very tender. After soaking, cut each prune into small, pea-sized pieces (about 0.5 cm/0.2 inches) to reduce the risk of choking. Alternatively, continue to mash or finely chop depending on your child's chewing skills. Always supervise closely and avoid serving whole prunes or large chunks. Dried plums can be added as small pieces to oatmeal, porridge, or yogurt.

Serving Instructions

From 9-18 months, offer dried plums cut into very small pieces (about pea-sized) or continue with mashed/puréed form if your child prefers. Serve about 1 tablespoon (15g/0.53oz) alongside foods high in protein and iron, such as scrambled eggs or chicken, and a variety of vegetables for balance. Monitor for any signs of allergies and avoid serving large portions to prevent digestive upset.

How to Serve Dried Plums to a 18+ Months Old

How to Cut

At this stage, children can handle slightly larger pieces, but choking is still a risk with dried fruits. Soften dried plums in warm water if they are hard, and cut them into thin strips or small bite-sized pieces (no larger than 1 cm/0.4 inches). Monitor your child closely and encourage them to chew thoroughly. Whole dried plums are still not recommended for toddlers under 3 years. Dried plums can be offered as part of snack plates, mixed with grains, or incorporated into homemade bars, but always ensure pieces are manageable and safe.

Serving Instructions

For children 18 months and older, you may offer dried plums cut into small bite-sized pieces (no larger than 1 cm/0.4 inches) or thin strips, always ensuring they are soft enough to chew. Serve about 1-2 tablespoons (15-30g/0.53-1.06oz) as part of a snack plate with grains, cheese, or nut butters (if already introduced). Maintain variety at each meal and continue to pair prunes with iron- and protein-rich foods. Even at this age, supervise closely and avoid whole dried plums.