Sugar Plums

Easy, delicious, and festive, these Sugar Plums are a unique treat to make this holiday season! With their blend of dried fruit, warming spices, and a sugary crunch, they are perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for a delightful snack, these Sugar Plums will surely get you in the holiday spirit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes total time, you can whip up these delightful treats without any hassle.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use any combination of dried fruits and nuts that you have on hand for a personalized touch.
• Festive Appeal: The colorful appearance and sweet flavors make them an ideal addition to holiday gatherings or gift baskets.
• Healthy Snack Option: Packed with fruits and nuts, these treats provide natural sweetness without refined sugars.
• No Baking Required: Enjoy the ease of making these snacks without turning on the oven!

Tools and Preparation

To make your Sugar Plums efficiently, gather the necessary tools before starting. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool simplifies chopping the dried fruits and nuts quickly, ensuring a uniform mixture.
• Cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop helps create evenly sized Sugar Plums for consistent cooking and presentation.

Ingredients

Easy, delicious, and festive, these Sugar Plums are a unique treat to make this holiday season! With dried fruit, warming spices, and a sugary crunch, these will get you in the holiday spirit.

For the Fruit Mixture

• 1/2 cup prunes, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup dried apricots or dates, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped

For the Nuts

• 1/2 cup toasted, unsalted almonds, chopped
• 1/4 cup toasted, unsalted pecans, chopped

For Flavoring

• 2 tablespoons cherry jam
• 3/4 tsp orange zest
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/8 tsp cardamom
• Pinch salt

For Coating

• 1/2 cup coarse sugar for coating (this is the purple sugar we used)

How to Make Sugar Plums

Step 1: Toast the Nuts

To enhance their flavor, it’s best to toast the nuts before using them.
1. Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C).
2. Spread the nuts on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 6-7 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruit Mixture

Next, chop all of your dried fruit finely.
1. In a food processor, combine all chopped fruits and nuts.
2. Pulse until everything is finely chopped.
3. Add all remaining ingredients (except sugar) into the processor.
4. Pulse again until the mixture becomes sticky and cohesive.

Step 3: Shape and Coat

Now it’s time to form your Sugar Plums!
1. Use a 1 tablespoon cookie scoop to measure out portions of the mixture.
2. Roll each portion into an oval shape by hand.
3. Optionally use a toothpick to create an indentation on one side of each plum.
4. Roll each shaped plum in coarse sugar until well coated.
5. Optional: Insert a small rosemary sprig into the top as a decorative stem.

Enjoy your homemade Sugar Plums as a delightful snack or festive treat!

How to Serve Sugar Plums

Sugar Plums are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. They add a festive touch to any gathering and can complement other dishes beautifully. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience with these delightful snacks.

With a Cup of Tea

• Pair Sugar Plums with your favorite herbal tea for a cozy afternoon snack. The warm spices in the plums will complement the aromatic flavors of your tea.

As Part of a Charcuterie Board

• Include Sugar Plums on a charcuterie board filled with cheeses, nuts, and fruits. Their sweetness balances savory elements and adds color to your spread.

On Holiday Desserts Table

• Display Sugar Plums alongside other holiday treats like cookies and cakes. Their unique appearance and taste will attract guests and make for a festive presentation.

Gift-Wrapped for Friends

• Package Sugar Plums in decorative bags or boxes as homemade gifts. They make thoughtful, edible presents for friends and family during the holiday season.

With Fresh Fruits

• Serve Sugar Plums with fresh fruits like apple slices or pears. This combination offers a refreshing contrast between sweet dried fruit and crisp fresh fruit.

For Kid-Friendly Snacks

• Offer Sugar Plums as part of a healthy snack option for kids. Their sweet flavor and fun shape make them appealing to children, encouraging healthier choices.

How to Perfect Sugar Plums

To create the best Sugar Plums, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your recipe.

• Toast your nuts: Toasting nuts enhances their flavor, making your Sugar Plums even more delicious. A quick roast in the oven brings out their natural oils and aroma.

• Finely chop ingredients: Ensure all dried fruits and nuts are finely chopped for better consistency. This helps the mixture stick together more effectively when forming plums.

• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your taste preferences. More cinnamon or nutmeg can add extra warmth if desired.

• Use quality jam: Choose high-quality cherry jam for added richness and flavor. A good jam enhances the overall taste of your Sugar Plums.

• Chill before shaping: If the mixture feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes before shaping. This makes it easier to form perfect little plums.

• Experiment with coatings: While coarse sugar is traditional, try using coconut flakes or finely chopped nuts as an alternative coating for a unique twist.

Best Side Dishes for Sugar Plums

Sugar Plums pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their sweetness and texture. Here are some great options to consider serving alongside them.

1. Cheese platter: A selection of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese complements the sweetness of Sugar Plums while adding creaminess to each bite.

2. Nuts mix: Offering a variety of toasted nuts provides crunch and richness that pairs perfectly with the chewy texture of Sugar Plums.

3. Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad featuring citrus fruits can balance the sweetness of your plums while adding vibrant colors to your table.

4. Vegetable crudités: Crisp vegetables such as carrots, celery, and bell peppers provide a crunchy contrast that brightens up the snack experience.

5. Yogurt dip: Serve plain or flavored yogurt as a dip alongside sugar plums for added creaminess and tang, enhancing their flavors beautifully.

6. Granola bars: Homemade granola bars offer another sweet option that pairs well with Sugar Plums, creating a delightful snack combination.

7. Rice cakes: Lightly salted rice cakes add crunch without overpowering the flavors of the plums, making them an excellent accompaniment.

8. Herbed breadsticks: Savory herbed breadsticks can provide an interesting contrast in taste while being easy to enjoy alongside sweet treats like Sugar Plums.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sugar Plums can be a fun and festive activity, but there are common mistakes that you should steer clear of for the best results.

• Overprocessing the Mixture: It’s easy to turn the mixture into a paste if you process it too long. Pulse just until combined and sticky.
• Skipping the Toasting Step: Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor. Take a few minutes to toast them for a richer taste.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can affect the texture. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Using Fresh Fruit Instead of Dried: Fresh fruit will alter the consistency. Stick with dried fruits for that perfect chewiness.
• Neglecting Sugar Coating: The sugar coating adds sweetness and a festive look. Don’t forget to roll your Sugar Plums thoroughly in sugar!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Sugar Plums in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sugar Plums

• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to an airtight container.
• Sugar Plums can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Sugar Plums

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place them on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Warm them for about 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: You can warm them in a pan over low heat, stirring gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sugar Plums.

What are Sugar Plums?

Sugar Plums are sweet, bite-sized treats made from dried fruits, nuts, and spices rolled in sugar. They embody holiday flavors.

How do I customize my Sugar Plums?

Feel free to experiment with different types of dried fruits or nuts based on your preference. You can even adjust the spices for unique flavors!

Can I use fresh fruit for this recipe?

It’s best to use dried fruit as fresh fruit will change the texture and moisture level of your Sugar Plums.

How long do Sugar Plums last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These homemade Sugar Plums make a delightful holiday treat that captures festive flavors perfectly. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have or prefer. Try making them today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Sugar Plums

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of homemade Sugar Plums, a perfect holiday treat that brings joy to every gathering. These no-bake snacks are made with a mix of dried fruits and nuts, infused with warming spices, and coated in a sugary crunch. They’re not just sweet; they’re also healthy, packed with natural ingredients that provide a burst of energy. With just 15 minutes of preparation time, you can create these festive bites that look as good as they taste. Whether served at a holiday party, included in gift baskets, or enjoyed as an afternoon snack, Sugar Plums are sure to become a favorite in your holiday repertoire.

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Ingredients

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• 1/2 cup prunes, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup dried apricots or dates, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup toasted unsalted almonds, chopped
• 1/4 cup toasted unsalted pecans, chopped
• 2 tablespoons cherry jam
• 3/4 tsp orange zest
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves
• 1/8 tsp cardamom
• Pinch salt
• 1/2 cup coarse sugar for coating

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and toast the nuts on a baking sheet for about 6-7 minutes until fragrant.
2. In a food processor, combine all the chopped dried fruits and nuts; pulse until finely chopped.
3. Add cherry jam and spices to the mixture; pulse again until sticky and cohesive.
4. Use a tablespoon scoop to portion out the mixture. Roll each portion into an oval shape and coat in coarse sugar.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: None
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No Bake
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 Sugar Plum (25g)
• Calories: 90
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg