As the holiday season approaches, there’s something magical about the aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen. Enter my Easy Homemade Sugar Plums, a no-bake delight that captures the essence of festive gatherings in bite-sized form. These sweet treats are not only quick and easy to whip up but are also gluten-free, making them perfect for everyone at your table. The combination of nuts and dried fruits with a hint of warm spices creates a chewy texture that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re planning on serving them at your holiday parties or gifting them to friends, you’ll love the versatility of this recipe that allows for personal twists. Have you ever wondered how such a simple yet flavorful treat can encapsulate the joy of the holiday spirit?
Why are Sugar Plums so Irresistible?
Simplicity at its finest: This no-bake recipe requires minimal effort, perfect for a quick holiday treat.
Countless variations: Feel free to swap nuts or fruits based on what you have on hand—your imagination is the only limit!
Rich, warm flavors: The blend of spices and natural sweetness from fruits creates a deliciously festive flavor that appeals to everyone.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether served at a holiday party or gifted in a charming box, these treats are guaranteed to be a hit.
Make ahead: Prepare these ahead of time, and enjoy them fresh for up to two weeks, making holiday baking less stressful!
For a healthier alternative, check out these Sugar Free Cheesecake Bars that everyone will enjoy!
Sugar Plums Ingredients
• To create your delightful Sugar Plums, gather these simple ingredients that are both delicious and adaptable.
For the Base
- Almonds – Adds a wonderful texture and nutty flavor; swap for walnuts or pecans if desired.
- Honey – A natural sweetener that binds the mixture; feel free to use maple syrup for a vegan version.
- Dried Prunes – Offers sweetness and a chewy texture; dried figs or dates can be used interchangeably.
- Dried Cranberries – Brings a pop of color and tartness; consider other dried berries like blueberries for variety.
- Dried Cherries – Adds a delightful sweetness with a hint of tart; can be replaced with more cranberries if necessary.
For Flavoring
- Orange Zest – Lends a bright aroma to the plums; substitute with lemon zest for a fresh twist.
- Cinnamon – Provides warmth and spice; nutmeg or ginger can enhance the flavor if you like.
- Fresh Nutmeg – Deepens the holiday aroma; ground nutmeg makes a great alternate choice.
- Allspice – Offers complexity and added warmth; simply increase the cinnamon a bit if you’re out.
For Finishing Touches
- Vanilla Extract – Enriches the flavor profile; almond extract is a delicious alternative.
- Granulated Sugar – For rolling the finished Sugar Plums, adding that sweet finishing touch.
Creating these Sugar Plums not only invites holiday cheer into your home but also allows for personal flavors that can be tailored to suit your taste buds! Happy cooking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sugar Plums
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the almonds on a baking sheet in a single layer and toast them for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway, until they turn golden brown and emit a nutty aroma. This step enhances the flavor of your Sugar Plums, so keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
Once your almonds are toasted and cooled, add them to a food processor along with the dried prunes, cranberries, and cherries. Include honey, orange zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and vanilla extract. Pulse the mixture until it becomes a sticky, cohesive mass, scraping down the sides as needed. This should take about 1-2 minutes, resulting in a vibrant and fragrant mixture for your Sugar Plums.
Step 3: Shape Plums
Using a small ice cream scooper, portion out the mixture into balls approximately 1½ inches in diameter. Roll each portion between your hands to form smooth, compact shapes. You should yield about 20-24 Sugar Plums, depending on the size. These delightful treats are just the right size for popping into your mouth, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Step 4: Coat with Sugar
Spread granulated sugar onto a plate and roll each ball in the sugar until fully coated. This adds a sweet and visually appealing finish to your Sugar Plums, creating a delightful contrast with the chewy interior. Ensure they are evenly covered before moving to the next step—this sugar coating really enhances the holiday spirit!
Step 5: Store or Serve
Arrange the finished Sugar Plums in a decorative dish or place them in mini cupcake wrappers for an extra festive touch. Allow them to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For the best flavor, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature, and enjoy your Sugar Plums for up to two weeks.
What to Serve with Easy Homemade Sugar Plums
Treat your loved ones to a delightful feast that builds upon the sweetness of these festive bites!
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their velvety texture and buttery flavor create a comforting contrast to the chewy Sugar Plums. Perfect for a holiday gathering!
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges and earthy flavor add a savory balance to the sweet treats, making them a fantastic side dish.
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Spiced Mulled Wine: Serve this warm beverage alongside your Sugar Plums for a cozy vibe, enhancing the festive flavors with its aromatic spices.
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Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: A crunchy, salty option paired with the sweetness of Sugar Plums—each bite brings a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
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Fruit and Cheese Platter: An assortment of fresh fruits and creamy cheeses provides a refreshing complement, rounding out your holiday spread wonderfully.
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Cinnamon Chai Latte: This warm, spiced drink enhances the festive spirit, making it an excellent pairing with the flavors of your Sugar Plums.
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Pecan Pie Bars: Their rich, sweet filling tied with a buttery crust serves as a perfect dessert companion, ideal for holiday celebrations and snack tables.
Expert Tips for Making Sugar Plums
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Toasting Nuts: Ensure you toast the almonds until golden brown to enhance their flavor without burning them during this crucial step.
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Sticky Mixture: If the mixture is too dry, add a splash more honey or a touch of water while blending to reach that perfect sticky consistency for your Sugar Plums.
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Proper Cooling: Let your toasted almonds cool completely before adding them to the food processor to prevent the mixture from becoming too warm and oily.
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Chilling for Firmness: For a firmer texture, refrigerate the rolled Sugar Plums for about an hour before serving; this helps them hold their shape better.
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Customize Flavors: Feel free to mix and match different nuts and dried fruits to create your unique version of Sugar Plums—your imagination is the limit!
How to Store and Freeze Sugar Plums
Room Temperature: Store your Sugar Plums in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, keeping them fresh and chewy.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the Sugar Plums; they can last in the fridge for up to three weeks. Just be sure they’re in an airtight container.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Sugar Plums in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these no-bake treats; simply enjoy them chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These Sugar Plums are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mixture and shape the plums up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Simply follow the initial steps of toasting the almonds, mixing the ingredients, and forming the balls. Before serving, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes and roll them in granulated sugar for a sweet finish. This method ensures that your Sugar Plums remain just as delicious and tender while saving you precious time during busy holiday preparations!
Sugar Plums: Exciting Variations Await
Feel free to let your creativity flow with these delightful variations that will elevate your Sugar Plums!
- Nut-Free: Swap out nuts for sunflower or pumpkin seeds to make these treats safe for children with allergies, while still offering a delicious crunch.
- Plant-Based Sweeteners: If you want to ditch honey, maple syrup or agave nectar work beautifully as vegan alternatives—just maintain the same quantity for sweetness!
- Citrus Swap: Instead of orange zest, try using lemon or lime zest for a refreshing variation that brightens the flavor profile.
- Flavor Boost: Incorporate a pinch of cardamom or a dash of cayenne for unexpected warmth and complexity; it’ll leave your guests guessing about that secret ingredient!
- Dried Fruit Medley: Feel free to mix and match your dried fruits. Use mango, apricots, or figs instead of prunes and cranberries to change up the flavor and texture—such fun possibilities!
- Chocolate-Dipped: For a touch of indulgence, dip your finished Sugar Plums in melted dark chocolate before rolling in sugar, creating a sweet contrast to the chewy center.
- Sugar-Free Option: For those looking to control sugar intake, consider coating the plums in a sugar alternative like erythritol or stevia for a delightful treat that aligns with dietary needs.
- Festive Sprinkles: Add colored sprinkles or edible glitter to the sugar coating for a festive touch; they become a visual delight, perfect for holiday celebrations!
Explore these variations, and don’t forget to check out our delightful Sugar Free Cheesecake Bars for a wonderfully healthy alternative! Each variation means more reason to delight in these sweet, no-bake wonders!
Sugar Plums Recipe FAQs
What type of nuts should I use for Sugar Plums?
Absolutely! Almonds are ideal for Sugar Plums due to their great texture and flavor. However, walnuts and pecans make wonderful substitutes if you prefer. If someone has nut allergies, consider using seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds instead!
How long can I store Sugar Plums?
You can store your delicious Sugar Plums in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them fresher for longer, feel free to refrigerate them, where they’ll remain good for up to three weeks!
Can I freeze Sugar Plums?
Very! To freeze your Sugar Plums, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t touching. Freeze for a few hours until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for the best flavor.
What should I do if my mixture is too dry?
No worries! If your mixture seems too dry while blending, just add a splash of honey or even a tiny bit of water—small amounts make a world of difference. Pulse again until you achieve that perfect sticky consistency that holds together beautifully when shaped.
Can Sugar Plums be made vegan?
Yes, indeed! To make these delightful treats vegan, simply swap the honey for maple syrup. This maintains not only the sweetness and binding quality but also keeps the essence of festive flavors.
Are Sugar Plums pet-friendly?
It’s best to keep these sweet treats away from pets. Both chocolate and certain nuts can be harmful to dogs, and the sugary coating isn’t something we want them munching on. Enjoy the Sugar Plums responsibly!
Sugar Plums: Sweet No-Bake Treats for Holiday Joy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and toast the almonds on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until golden brown.
- After cooling, blend the toasted almonds, dried prunes, cranberries, cherries, honey, orange zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and vanilla extract in a food processor until a sticky mixture forms.
- Use an ice cream scoop to portion the mixture into balls about 1½ inches in diameter, rolling each into smooth shapes.
- Roll each ball in granulated sugar until fully coated to create a sweet finishing touch.
- Place the finished Sugar Plums in a decorative dish or in mini cupcake wrappers and let them set for 30 minutes before serving.