If you are looking for a delightful treat that bursts with rich flavors and a festive flair, this Sugar Plums Recipe is an absolute must-try. Carefully blending toasted almonds, dried fruits, warm spices, and a touch of honey, this no-bake delight offers a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Each bite delivers a nostalgic feel reminiscent of holiday magic while being naturally wholesome and easy to prepare. Whether you’re gifting them or enjoying a cozy evening snack, Sugar Plums bring joy and warmth in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sugar Plums Recipe lies in its simple yet purposeful ingredients, each playing a vital role to create a symphony of taste and texture. From the crunch of toasted almonds to the vibrant burst of dried cherries and the comforting warmth of spices, every component is essential to the final masterpiece.
- 2 cups almonds (toasted): Provides a crunchy base and a subtle nutty flavor that balances the sweetness.
- 1 cup dried plums: Adds natural sweetness and a chewy texture to perfectly complement the nuts.
- ½ cup dried cherries: Infuses a tart, fruity note that brightens the overall flavor profile.
- ½ cup dried cranberries: Brings a tangy contrast while adding to the chewy consistency.
- ¼ cup honey: Acts as a natural sweetener and helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon: Offers warm, aromatic depth that enhances the fruity notes.
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg: Provides subtle earthiness and spice for complexity.
- ¼ teaspoon allspice: Adds a hint of warmth reminiscent of holiday baking.
- 1 teaspoon orange zest: Lends fresh citrus brightness, lifting the flavors beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Complements the spices and fruits with smooth sweetness.
- Granulated sugar (for coating): Creates a sparkling, festive finish and a slight crunch.
How to Make Sugar Plums Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Almonds
Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the almonds evenly on a baking sheet to toast them for 5 to 7 minutes. This step brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor with a golden crunch. Make sure to cool them completely before moving on, as this prevents premature softening during blending.
Step 2: Blend the Mixture
Into a food processor, add the cooled toasted almonds along with dried plums, cherries, cranberries, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Pulse the mixture in short bursts until it reaches a sticky, evenly blended consistency. You want the mixture to hold together when pressed but avoid making it too pasty, ensuring a pleasant mouthfeel.
Step 3: Form the Sugar Plums
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion the mixture and roll it into balls about 1½ inches in diameter. If you find the mixture too dry and crumbly, don’t hesitate to blend in small amounts of orange juice or honey for extra moisture and binding. This step allows you to shape perfect, bite-sized sugar plums ready for coating.
Step 4: Coat with Sugar
Pour granulated sugar into a shallow bowl and roll each ball in the sugar until it’s fully coated. This not only gives your sugar plums a sparkling, festive finish but also adds a subtle crunch that contrasts delightfully with the soft interior.
Step 5: Arrange and Store
Place your freshly made Sugar Plums on a charming serving dish or nestle them into mini cupcake wrappers for an elegant presentation. To keep them fresh, store the sugar plums in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay lovely for up to two weeks.
How to Serve Sugar Plums Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Sugar Plums by garnishing with a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios or a light dusting of powdered cinnamon. For a festive touch, a small twist of fresh orange zest on top can add visual appeal and a burst of citrus aroma that sets these treats apart.
Side Dishes
While Sugar Plums shine on their own, pairing them with a cup of spiced tea or hot cocoa makes for a comforting and satisfying snack experience. They also complement cheese boards beautifully, offering a sweet contrast to aged cheddar or creamy brie.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, arrange your Sugar Plums in decorative glass jars layered with cinnamon sticks and dried citrus slices to impress your guests. Alternatively, present them on rustic wooden trays garnished with fresh herbs like rosemary for a farmhouse-inspired look that feels both inviting and celebratory.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Sugar Plums, no worries! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature where they will maintain their texture and flavor for up to two weeks, making them perfect for enjoying leisurely or gifting.
Freezing
Sugar Plums freeze exceptionally well. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a sealed container or freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together and allows for easy portioning later. They can be kept in the freezer for up to three months without sacrificing taste.
Reheating
This recipe is best enjoyed at room temperature, so there’s no need to reheat. Simply thaw frozen Sugar Plums in the refrigerator overnight or leave them at room temperature for about an hour before serving to bring out their full flavor and texture.
FAQs
Are Sugar Plums Recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! This Sugar Plums Recipe contains no gluten ingredients, making it a safe and delicious choice for anyone avoiding gluten.
Can I substitute other nuts for almonds?
Yes, you can swap almonds with walnuts, pecans, or cashews based on your preference. Just be mindful that changing the nuts may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
Is it possible to use fresh plums instead of dried?
Fresh plums contain more moisture and would likely make the mixture too wet and difficult to hold its shape. Dried plums are ideal for this recipe’s texture and binding.
How long do Sugar Plums last once made?
When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, your Sugar Plums will stay fresh and tasty for up to two weeks.
Can I add other spices to customize the flavor?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with small amounts of cloves, ginger, or cardamom to add your own unique twist to this classic recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Sugar Plums Recipe is more than just a treat; it’s a heartfelt tradition packed with flavor and warmth that’s bound to bring smiles wherever shared. Its simplicity and natural ingredients make it a joyful addition to any festive occasion or everyday indulgence. I truly hope you dive in and create your own batch of these delightful gems to enjoy and share with loved ones.
Print
Sugar Plums Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes (almond toasting)
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 20 Sugar Plums
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful no-bake Sugar Plums made with toasted almonds, dried fruits, and warm spices, rolled in sugar for a festive treat perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday snacking.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups almonds (toasted)
- 1 cup dried plums
- ½ cup dried cherries
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- Granulated sugar (for coating)
Wet Ingredients
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: small amount of orange juice or additional honey (if needed for binding)
Instructions
- Toast Almonds: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the almonds evenly on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes or until golden brown and aromatic. Allow them to cool completely before using.
- Blend Ingredients: In a food processor, combine toasted almonds, dried plums, cherries, cranberries, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, orange zest, honey, and vanilla extract. Pulse in short bursts until the mixture is sticky and holds together when pressed, but is not too pasty.
- Form Balls: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion the mixture and roll into balls approximately 1 ½ inches in diameter. If the mixture feels too dry, add a small amount of orange juice or honey to bind.
- Coat with Sugar: Place granulated sugar in a shallow bowl and roll each ball in the sugar until evenly coated, giving a festive, sparkling finish.
- Serve and Store: Arrange sugar plums on a serving dish or place in mini cupcake wrappers for an elegant presentation. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor and prevents sogginess in the final product.
- If you do not have a food processor, finely chop the dried fruits and almonds and mix by hand, though texture will differ.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey according to your preference.
- Optional addition of orange juice helps bind the mixture if it feels dry, but add sparingly to avoid over-moistening.
- These sugar plums can be stored at room temperature or refrigerated for longer freshness.
