Sugar Plum Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that combines the sweet, fruity flavor of dried sugar plums with the soft, buttery texture of a classic cookie.
Perfect for festive gatherings or as a cozy snack, these cookies offer a unique twist on traditional holiday baking.
With a hint of spice and a touch of sweetness, they’re a perfect balance of flavors that will fill your home with warmth and holiday cheer.
Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these cookies are sure to become a seasonal favorite.
How To Make Sugar Plum Cookies?
Preparation Times: 15 minutes
Cooking Times: 10-12 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Yields: Approximately 24 cookies
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Whisk
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup finely chopped dried plums (or prunes)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon milk (more if needed)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sprinkles for topping (optional)
Instructions
1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cornstarch, salt, and ground cinnamon. This ensures the spices and leavening agent are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, giving the cookies a tender texture.
3: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, blending until smooth. This helps create a cohesive dough that binds everything together.
4: Fold in the Plums and Nuts
Gently stir in the finely chopped dried plums (or prunes) and the optional chopped pecans or walnuts. These ingredients add flavor and texture to the cookies.
5: Form the Cookie Dough
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies dense.
6: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
7: Prepare the Coating
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, milk, and vanilla extract. Add more milk if needed to reach a smooth, drizzle-able consistency.
8: Glaze and Decorate
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with festive sprinkles for a finishing touch. Let the glaze set before serving.
Nutrition Facts Of Sugar Plum Cookies
- Calories: 130 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 6g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 12g
Serving Suggestions
With a Hot Beverage: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
On a Festive Platter: Arrange them on a holiday-themed platter with other cookies for a charming dessert spread.
With Fruit: Serve alongside fresh fruit, like sliced oranges or berries, to balance the sweetness.
As a Gift: Package them in a decorative box or tin to give as a homemade gift for holidays or special occasions.
Tips and Variations
Chill the Dough: If your dough is too sticky, chill it for 15-20 minutes before baking to make it easier to handle.
Add Orange Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist that pairs beautifully with the dried plums and cinnamon.
Chocolate Chips: For an extra indulgence, fold in some white or dark chocolate chips into the dough.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
Can I use fresh plums instead of dried ones?
Fresh plums contain too much moisture, so it’s best to stick with dried plums for the right texture.
How do I store Sugar Plum Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Can I substitute sugar plums with other dried fruits?
Yes, dried cranberries, raisins, or apricots work well as alternatives.
Can I add nuts to the dough?
Yes, chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds can be mixed in for added texture and flavor.
How can I make these cookies dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter and substitute an egg replacer for the egg to make them dairy-free.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw before baking.
Conclusion
Sugar Plum Cookies are a festive, flavorful treat that brings a touch of sweetness to any occasion.
With their soft texture and fruity twist, they’re perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy moments at home.
Simple to make and delightful to eat, these cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.