As the air turns crisp and festive melodies fill our homes, I find myself standing in the kitchen, eager to create something special. Enter Sugar Plums—a delightful, no-bake treat that brings all the warmth of the season in one bite! These little wonders, made with wholesome ingredients like dried fruits and nuts, come together in just 15 minutes, making them the perfect quick addition to your holiday spread. Not only are they a healthier alternative to traditional sweets, but they’re also wonderfully customizable, allowing you to adjust them to your taste or pantry staples. Trust me, they’ll be just as much a hit at your gatherings as they are in my home. So, are you ready to add a unique twist to your holiday treats?
Why are Sugar Plums a must-try?
Festive, vibrant flavors: Each bite bursts with the delightful essence of dried fruits and warm spices, capturing the spirit of the holidays in an irresistible way.
Quick to prepare: Whip these up in just 15 minutes—no baking required! Perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something homemade.
Customizable delight: Whether you prefer almonds or want to add in some unique dried fruits, these Sugar Plums are easily tailored to your taste, just like my Cinnamon Sugar Cream.
Healthy indulgence: Made from wholesome ingredients, they offer a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising on flavor.
Crowd-pleaser: These treats will be the highlight of your festive gatherings, appealing to both kids and adults alike! Pair them with fresh fruit salad or even a cheese board for a balanced treat.
Sugar Plums Ingredients
For the Base
• Prunes – Provide sweetness and chewiness; choose moist prunes for the best flavor and texture.
• Dried Apricots or Dates – Adds natural sweetness and a soft texture; if using dates, ensure they are pitted and finely chopped.
• Dried Cranberries – Contributes a tart contrast to the sweetness; you can substitute with any other dried fruit for variation.
For the Nuts
• Toasted Almonds – Adds crunch and flavor; toasting enhances nuttiness, and feel free to use any nuts you prefer.
• Toasted Pecans – Provides a rich flavor; replace them with walnuts if you’re looking for a different taste.
For the Binding
• Cherry Jam – Acts as a natural sweetener and binder; alternative fruit-based jams can be used for variation.
• Orange Zest – Introduces bright citrus notes; freshly grated zest will enhance the flavor.
For the Spice Blend
• Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ground Cloves, Cardamom, and Salt) – Enhances warmth and complexity; adjust spices according to your personal taste.
For the Coating
• Coarse Sugar – Adds sweetness and a crunchy finish when rolling the Sugar Plums; perfect for that festive look!
Enjoy crafting these delightful Sugar Plums—your holiday gatherings will never be the same!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sugar Plums
Step 1: Toast the Nuts
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped almonds and pecans on a baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer. Toast them for 6–7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are fragrant and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, as toasted nuts add a lovely flavor to your Sugar Plums.
Step 2: Chop the Fruits
While the nuts are toasting, take your prunes, dried apricots (or dates), and dried cranberries. Finely chop them on a cutting board, ensuring there are no large pieces. This step is crucial for the right texture in your Sugar Plums. Once chopped, set them aside to combine with the nuts after toasting.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Food Processor
When the nuts have finished toasting, let them cool slightly before transferring them to a food processor. Add the finely chopped dried fruits to the processor as well. Pulse the mixture until it becomes finely chopped and well combined, resembling a sticky dough. This will serve as the base of your delightful Sugar Plums.
Step 4: Mix in Flavorings
Next, add the cherry jam, freshly grated orange zest, and your chosen spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, etc.) to the processor. Pulse the mixture again until it becomes a cohesive and sticky mixture. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated, creating a flavorful blend that will shape your Sugar Plums.
Step 5: Shape the Sugar Plums
Using a tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop out portions of the mixture and roll them into oval shapes with your hands. Aim for a consistent size to ensure even presentation. Gently place the formed Sugar Plums on a parchment-lined baking sheet and continue until all the mixture is used, creating a festive bounty.
Step 6: Create Indentations
If you desire, create a small indentation on the top of each Sugar Plum using your fingertip or a small spoon. This step adds a decorative touch and can be filled later with more jam or left as is. This small detail enhances the visual appeal of your Sugar Plums while maintaining their delightful texture.
Step 7: Coat with Sugar
Finally, take a shallow dish and pour in some coarse sugar. Roll each Sugar Plum in the sugar until generously coated, ensuring they sparkle beautifully. This coating not only adds sweetness but also gives your Sugar Plums a festive finish, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet treat at home.
Make Ahead Options
These Sugar Plums are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Simply follow the steps up to shaping the Sugar Plums, then roll them in coarse sugar right before serving. This ensures they stay vibrant and sweet, ready to impress your guests. If you’re preparing a larger batch, you can form the Sugar Plums ahead of time and refrigerate them for 3 days as well. Just remember to coat them in sugar right before enjoying, ensuring they’ll be just as delicious and festive as ever!
Expert Tips for Sugar Plums
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Freshness Matters: Use fresh, plump dried fruits for the best flavor. Stale fruits can make your mixture crumbly and affect texture.
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Nut Toasting: Ensure nuts are toasted correctly; watch them closely, as over-toasting can lead to a bitter taste rather than the rich flavor we want in our Sugar Plums.
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Control Consistency: If your mixture feels too crumbly, gradually add more cherry jam until you reach the desired sticky consistency for easy shaping.
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Mix It Up: Don’t hesitate to customize! Feel free to substitute nuts or dried fruits based on your preferences to create a uniquely delightful batch of Sugar Plums.
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Perfect Indentations: When creating indentations, be gentle; they enhance presentation and can be used for a spot of extra jam if desired.
What to Serve with Delicious No-Bake Sugar Plums?
As you prepare these delightful Sugar Plums, consider pairing them with delicious complementary dishes that elevate your holiday spread.
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Creamy Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing blend of seasonal fruits adds a burst of color and a refreshing contrast to the chewy texture of Sugar Plums.
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Festive Spiced Tea: The warming notes of cardamom and cinnamon in spiced tea harmonize beautifully with the flavors in the Sugar Plums, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
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Cheese Board: A selection of mild cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits complements the rich sweetness of the Sugar Plums while providing a delightful variety of textures and flavors.
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Gingerbread Cookies: The spiciness of gingerbread cookies pairs wonderfully with the warm spices in the Sugar Plums, creating a festive treat that evokes holiday cheer.
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Hot Chocolate Bar: Serve warm mugs of hot chocolate alongside your Sugar Plums for a nostalgic twist; add toppings like whipped cream and marshmallows for extra fun!
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy, sweet delights mirror the texture of the Sugar Plums while offering a tropical flair that balances the spices beautifully.
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Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in rich chocolate adds contrast and playfulness to your dessert table, perfectly juxtaposing sweet and salty.
Each of these delightful options not only complements the flavors and textures of the Sugar Plums but also enhances the festive spirit of your gathering!
How to Store and Freeze Sugar Plums
Airtight Container: Store Sugar Plums in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their delightful texture and keeps them fresh.
Refrigeration: For longer-lasting treats, refrigerate Sugar Plums for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to use a sealed container to prevent them from absorbing any odors.
Freezing: Freeze Sugar Plums for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw them at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these treats; simply enjoy them as is for a chewy, sweet snack that’s perfect for any occasion!
Sugar Plums: Delicious Variations Await!
Feel free to explore these tasty twists that will make your Sugar Plums truly your own!
- Nut-Free Delight: Swap the almonds and pecans for sunflower or pumpkin seeds to create a delightful nut-free treat.
- Extra Fruity: Incorporate chopped dried fruits like figs or apricots to elevate the sweetness and variety of flavors. Their bright colors bring even more festive cheer!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the spice mix for a surprising touch of heat. It beautifully complements the sweetness.
- Coconut Bliss: Roll your finished Sugar Plums in shredded coconut for a tropical flair that pairs perfectly with the existing flavors.
- Jam Alternatives: Use apricot or raspberry jam instead of cherry for a new flavor profile. Each offers a fun twist while still being fruity.
- Nut Butters: Mix in a tablespoon of almond or peanut butter for a creamier texture and deeper flavor, giving your Sugar Plums a protein boost!
- Citrus Splash: Add a drop of lemon or lime juice along with the orange zest for a refreshing zing that brightens every bite.
- Choco-Mint: Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract and roll in cocoa powder for a Christmas twist reminiscent of festive candies, making them extra special!
Feel free to embrace your creativity and adjust ingredients to fit your taste. The joy of cooking is in making these treats your own, just like my beloved Sweet Crunchy Sugar Cookies!
Sugar Plums Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ingredients for Sugar Plums?
Absolutely! When choosing prunes, look for those that are moist and plump, as they provide the best flavor and texture. For dried apricots or dates, ensure they are fresh and properly pitted; they should feel soft to the touch. When selecting your dried cranberries, avoid those with added sugars to keep your treat healthy. Always remember to toast your nuts until they are fragrant but not burnt; this enhances their flavor immensely.
How should I store my Sugar Plums after making them?
For optimal freshness, store your Sugar Plums in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks—just be sure to keep them sealed to retain their delightful flavor. Don’t forget, if you want to keep them for even longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months!
Can I freeze Sugar Plums, and if so, how?
Yes! Freezing Sugar Plums is a great option for extended storage. To do so, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid—about 2 hours. Once they are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before indulging!
What if my Sugar Plum mixture is too crumbly?
Very! If you find your mixture is crumbly and not sticking together, don’t panic. Simply add more cherry jam, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing the mixture in your food processor until you reach the desired sticky consistency. This will help bind all the ingredients together, ensuring that your Sugar Plums hold their shape when rolled.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! When making Sugar Plums, keep allergies in mind—nuts are a common allergen, so feel free to swap them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free alternative. Additionally, ensure you’re using dried fruits that are free from added sugars or preservatives if you or your guests have dietary restrictions. If you have pets around, be cautious with ingredients like chocolate, which can be harmful to them.
Can I customize my Sugar Plums with different ingredients?
The more the merrier! One of the best things about Sugar Plums is their versatility. You can substitute the nuts with your favorites or try unique dried fruits, like figs or mangoes. Additionally, adding spices like ginger or even a splash of almond extract can give your Sugar Plums a delightful twist, making them truly your own!
Festive Sugar Plums: Easy No-Bake Holiday Treats to Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped almonds and pecans on a baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer. Toast them for 6–7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until fragrant and golden brown.
- While the nuts are toasting, finely chop the prunes, dried apricots (or dates), and dried cranberries on a cutting board. Set them aside.
- Once the nuts have toasted, let them cool slightly before placing them in a food processor with the chopped dried fruits. Pulse until finely chopped and well combined.
- Add the cherry jam, orange zest, and spices to the mixture in the food processor. Pulse again until a cohesive mixture forms.
- Scoop out portions of the mixture using a tablespoon cookie scoop and roll them into oval shapes with your hands.
- Create a small indentation on the top of each Sugar Plum if desired, using your fingertip or a small spoon.
- Roll each Sugar Plum in coarse sugar until generously coated.
