Pronunciation: [pɹˈuːn wˈɪp] (IPA) 
The spelling of "prune whip" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Prune" is spelled /pruːn/, with a long "u" sound and a silent "e". "Whip" is spelled /wɪp/, with a short "i" sound and a voiceless "w". When combined, the two words produce the dish known as "prune whip", which is a dessert made by beating cooked prunes and whipping cream together. The phonetic transcription of this dish is /pruːn wɪp/.
Prune whip refers to a culinary preparation typically made from dried or stewed prunes and other ingredients, resulting in a light, airy, and mousse-like dessert. The term can also be used to describe the finished dish itself. Prune whip is often enjoyed as a standalone dessert or used as a filling, topping, or accompaniment in various recipes.
To make prune whip, dried prunes are commonly rehydrated or gently cooked until tender. They are then pureed or mashed into a smooth and consistent texture. Sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice may be added to enhance the flavor and lend a delightful tanginess. Whipped egg whites are frequently incorporated, giving the mixture its characteristic lightness and fluffiness. The egg whites are usually beaten until they reach stiff peaks before being gently folded into the prune mixture. This results in a smooth and velvety dessert that is rich in flavor yet manages to capture a delicate and airy consistency.
The name "prune whip" is derived from the process of whipping the mixture, which incorporates air into the prunes and creates the desirable light texture. It is important to note that despite the name, there is typically no actual whip involved; it refers solely to the whipping or incorporation of air into the dessert during its preparation. Prune whip is often served chilled, garnished with whipped cream, sprinkles of chopped nuts, or dusted with powdered sugar for added sweetness and visual appeal.
The word "prune whip" consists of two separate terms: "prune" and "whip".
- "Prune" comes from the Old French word "prune", meaning a plum. It further traces back to the Latin word "prunum", which also means plum. Over time, "prune" specifically began referring to dried plums.
- "Whip" comes from the Old English word "hwippan", meaning to strike or beat. It has Germanic origins.
When these two terms are combined, "prune whip" refers to a dessert made from whipped prune puree, sugar, and other ingredients. In terms of etymology, it does not have a specific history and is merely a combination of the words "prune" and "whip" to describe the dish.
