Sugar Plums are not just a whimsical holiday treat; they embody the warmth and joy of festive gatherings. These delightful Homemade Sugar Plums combine rich flavors of nuts and dried fruits, perfect for a cozy holiday treat. Imagine the sweet aroma filling your kitchen as you prepare these little bites of happiness to share with loved ones. With each bite, you’ll find a perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness, making them an essential part of your Christmas sweets repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Sugar Plums

There are countless reasons to adore these sugar plums. For starters, they’re incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and equipment. They also serve as a delightful gift, making them perfect for sharing during the holiday season. The combination of sweet dried fruits and crunchy nuts creates a unique texture that’s satisfying to bite into. Plus, they’re naturally sweetened with honey, offering a healthier alternative to many confectionery treats. Each bite is packed with flavor, from the warm spices to the bright hints of orange zest. Whether enjoyed as a snack or dessert, these delicious sugar plums are sure to impress. Finally, they fit perfectly into a vegetarian diet, making them accessible for everyone at your holiday gatherings.

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Ingredients for Sugar Plums

Gather these items:

1 cup Almonds (Provides crunch and flavor; toasting enhances taste.)
1/2 cup Honey (Acts as a natural sweetener and binds ingredients together.)
1 cup Dried Plums (Prunes) (Provides a sweet and chewy base.)
1 tablespoon Orange Zest (Adds citrus brightness.)
1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Offers warm, holiday spice.)
1/2 teaspoon Fresh Nutmeg (Enhances the recipe’s spiced aroma and flavor.)
1/2 teaspoon All-Spice (Complements the overall flavor profile.)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor complexity.)
1/2 cup Dried Cranberries (Adds tartness and color.)
1/2 cup Dried Cherries (Contributes sweetness and a chewier texture.)

How to Make Sugar Plums Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the almonds on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until fragrant, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 2: In a food processor, combine the toasted almonds, honey, orange zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, all-spice, and dried fruits. Pulse until the mixture forms a sticky dough, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Using a tablespoon scooper, portion out the mixture. Roll each piece into a 1½-inch ball.
Step 4: Roll each ball in granulated sugar until fully coated, adding a lovely crunch.
Step 5: Let your sugar plums sit for a few hours at room temperature before storing in an airtight container.

Pro Tips for the Best Sugar Plums

Keep these in mind:

Always toast the almonds to enhance their flavor.
Use fresh spices for the best aroma and taste.
Experiment with different dried fruits to customize your sugar plums.
Make sure the mixture is sticky enough to hold together.
Store them in a cool, dry place to maintain their texture and flavor.

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Best Ways to Serve Sugar Plums

There are several delightful ways to enjoy these sugar plums. They can be served as part of a holiday dessert platter alongside cookies and other Christmas sweets. Additionally, they make for a lovely snack during festive gatherings or even a sweet surprise in lunchboxes. Pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.

How to Store and Reheat Sugar Plums

To keep your sugar plums fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to two weeks. If you prefer to make them ahead of time, simply prepare them and let them sit out to dry before storing. This makes them a great option for holiday meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sugar Plums

What are sugar plums?

Sugar plums are sweet confections made from a mixture of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, rolled into bite-sized balls and often coated in sugar. They are traditionally associated with holiday celebrations and are a favorite among fruit candies. Learn more about their history here.

Can I make sugar plums ahead of time?

Yes, you can make sugar plums ahead of time. They store well in an airtight container for up to two weeks, making them a convenient treat for holiday gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with sugar plums?

To avoid common pitfalls when making sugar plums, ensure the mixture is sticky enough to hold together, and don’t skip toasting the nuts for added flavor. Also, allow them to rest before storing to achieve the best texture.

Variations of Sugar Plums You Can Try

If you’re looking to switch things up, try adding different dried fruits like apricots or figs for a unique twist. You can also experiment with various spices, such as cardamom or ginger, to create a different flavor profile. For a nut-free version, substitute sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. These variations keep the sugar plums exciting and festive for every holiday celebration.

For more delicious recipes, check out our dessert category or try making easy cinnamon rolls for a delightful breakfast treat!

Homemade Sugar Plums: 7 Irresistible Holiday Treats

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Author: Michael
Total Time: 145 minutes
Yield: 20 sugar plums 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These delightful Homemade Sugar Plums combine rich flavors of nuts and dried fruits, perfect for a cozy holiday treat.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup Almonds
1/2 cup Honey
1 cup Dried Plums (Prunes)
1 tablespoon Orange Zest
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon Fresh Nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon All-Spice
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1/2 cup Dried Cranberries
1/2 cup Dried Cherries

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the almonds on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven until fragrant, about 8-10 minutes.
In a food processor, combine the toasted almonds, honey, orange zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, all-spice, and dried fruits. Pulse until the mixture forms a sticky dough, about 1-2 minutes.
Using a tablespoon scooper, portion out the mixture. Roll each piece into a 1½-inch ball.
Roll each ball in granulated sugar until fully coated, adding a lovely crunch.
Let your sugar plums sit for a few hours at room temperature before storing in an airtight container.