-=:Chocolate Dipped Dried Plums:=-

Yield for 12 servings - 2 each

1 cup (about 6 ounces) pitted dried plums
6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely chopped

Fillings:
nuts
candied ginger
prepared almond paste or marzipan (recipe)

Toppings:
chopped nuts
candied ginger pieces
or candy decors

Cut slit into side of each dried plum, stuff with small piece or portion of filling, as desired. Pinch to close; shape to form round shape. Set aside.

Place chocolate in small heatproof bowl, set in pot of hot (not boiling) water over low heat; allow to melt, stirring occasionally until smooth. (Chocolate should be fluid and barely warm.) Remove from heat. (more information on melting chocolate)

Line baking sheet with aluminum foil or wax paper. Using a fork, dip dried plums, 1 at a time, into chocolate; drain excess. Place on prepared baking sheet and decorate with toppings as desired. Refrigerate immediately until set. When chocolate has hardened, transfer to jars or containers for gift-giving. Store, covered, in cool place, away from direct sun or heat.

Tip: Melted white chocolate can be drizzled over chocolate-dipped dried plums instead of or before adding toppings, if desired.