Sugar Plum Bread

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°.

Step 2: In a small saucepan, combine dried plums, water and 2 tablespoons sugar.

Step 3: Bring to a simmer over medium heat for 1 minute; remove from heat; let stand until plumped, about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Drain plums, reserving fruit and liquid; and measure liquid, adding enough water to yield 1/2 cup.

Step 5: Cream shortening and remaining sugar until light and fluffy, about 4 minutes; beat in egg.

Step 6: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.

Step 7: Add to creamed mixture alternately with cooking liquid; fold in cooled dried plums (batter will be thick).

Step 8: Transfer batter to a greased 8x4-in. loaf pan.

Step 9: Sprinkle with coarse sugar.

Step 10: Bake until a toothpick inserted in center comes out with moist crumbs, 40-45 minutes.

Step 11: Cool in pan 10 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 12: Note: if using apricots, add a little lemon zest to softened butter and slather on top.