Tip-sy Tuesday: Plumping Dried Fruits

Plumping dried fruits like raisins is easy and really makes a difference. They get a softer texture, adds moisture, and brings out the flavors. Put the dried fruit in a small bowl and cover with hot water, let them soak for a few minutes then drain off the water. You can also add more flavor by soaking them in fruit juice or alcohol like rum, bourbon, or brandy (like I did for last week's 'North Carolina Tarheel Cookies').

Try adding plumped dried fruits to salads and other dishes in addition to baking with them. I don't love raisins but plumping them first (especially in alcohol haha) makes them way better!