Name: Delicious No-Bake Sugar Plums: A Wholesome Holiday Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Almonds (substitute with walnuts or pecans if desired); 1/2 cup Honey (use maple syrup for a vegan option); 1 tablespoon Orange Zest (lemon zest can be used as an alternative); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (allspice or nutmeg work well as substitutes); 1 cup Dried Plums (Prunes) (can substitute with dried figs or apricots); 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries (feel free to use any dried berry, like blueberries); 1/2 cup Dried Cherries (can be replaced with raisins or sultanas); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (almond extract can be a delightful twist); 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (for coating) (try coconut sugar for a rustic touch)

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As I sift through a treasure trove of holiday memories, one delightful treat always stands out: Sugar Plums. The moment I bite into these chewy, nutty morsels, I am transported back to cozy gatherings and laughter-filled nights. My Honey-Almond Sugar Plums not only conjure those festive feelings but also delightfully merge simplicity with flavor. They’re a no-bake wonder packed with wholesome nuts and dried fruits, perfect for those who yearn for something healthier yet irresistibly sweet. Plus, these charming snacks come together in mere minutes, making them a stress-free option for last-minute holiday gatherings or gifting. Have you ever considered how a few simple ingredients can create a whimsical taste of the season? Let’s dive into this festive recipe!

Why Are Sugar Plums the Perfect Holiday Treat?

Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nuts and dried fruits, these Sugar Plums offer a nutritious twist on traditional sweets.

No-Bake Convenience: Quickly whip them up without needing an oven, making them a go-to for busy holiday prep.

Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or dried fruits, ensuring every batch is uniquely delightful!

Celebratory Spirit: Immerse yourself in a nostalgic holiday atmosphere as you enjoy these charming bites that evoke warmth and joy.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for sharing at gatherings, they’re sure to be a hit among all ages, bringing smiles with every bite.

Enhance your holiday spread by pairing them with an Iced Brown Sugar or serve alongside a platter of colorful Sugar Cookie Fruit.

Sugar Plums Ingredients

• Discover the key elements of these delightful no-bake treats!

For the Sugar Plums

Almonds – Provides crunch and nutty flavor; substitute with walnuts or pecans if desired.
Honey – Acts as a natural sweetener and binder; use maple syrup for a vegan option.
Orange Zest – Adds brightness and aroma; lemon zest can be used as an alternative.
Ground Cinnamon – Enhances warmth and a festive spice profile; allspice or nutmeg work well as substitutes.
Dried Plums (Prunes) – Main fruity ingredient providing sweetness and color; can substitute with dried figs or apricots.
Dried Cranberries – Adds tanginess and vibrant color; feel free to use any dried berry, like blueberries.
Dried Cherries – Complements with natural sweetness and texture; can be replaced with raisins or sultanas.
Vanilla Extract – Offers depth of flavor; almond extract can be a delightful twist.
Granulated Sugar (for coating) – Provides a sweet finish; try coconut sugar for a rustic touch.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sugar Plums

Step 1: Toast the Almonds
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the almonds evenly on a baking sheet and toast them for about 10 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and fragrant. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, as they can quickly change from perfectly toasted to overdone. This step enhances their nutty flavor and will elevate your Sugar Plums.

Step 2: Blend Ingredients
Once the almonds have cooled slightly, transfer them to a food processor. Add honey, orange zest, ground cinnamon, dried plums, dried cranberries, dried cherries, and vanilla extract. Pulse until the mixture is well combined and sticky, about 1-2 minutes. You want a consistency that holds together when pressed, which will create the perfect base for your Sugar Plums.

Step 3: Form the Sugar Plums
Using a tablespoon or a small ice cream scoop, take out portions of the mixture and roll them into balls that are approximately 1.5 inches in diameter. This step can be a fun experience, and you’ll notice how satisfying it is to see them come together! Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined tray as you continue to shape the remaining mixture.

Step 4: Coat with Sugar
Pour granulated sugar into a shallow dish. Roll each Sugar Plum ball in the sugar, ensuring they are evenly coated. This adds a delightful sweetness and a slight crunch to the exterior. Place the coated Sugar Plums back on the tray once completed, ready for their final touch.

Step 5: Chill and Serve
Let the Sugar Plums sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to set and firm up slightly. If you prefer, you can chill them in the refrigerator for a firmer texture, ideally for about an hour. Once ready, arrange them on a serving dish or in cute mini cupcake wrappers for a festive presentation that will captivate your guests.

Step 6: Store for Freshness
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll keep fresh for up to 2 weeks. The flavor will deepen as they sit, making your Sugar Plums an excellent treat to prepare ahead of the holiday celebrations. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of these delightful bites whenever the mood strikes!

Tips for the Best Sugar Plums

Toast Almonds Well: Properly toasting almonds enhances their flavor and aroma. Aim for a golden brown—watch closely to avoid burning!
Sticky Mixture: Don’t over-process ingredients in the food processor; a sticky consistency is crucial for rolling successful Sugar Plums.
Consistent Sizing: Use a small ice cream scoop for even-sized Sugar Plums. This ensures they cook uniformly and look delightful on the platter.
Coating Choices: Try rolling your Sugar Plums in coconut sugar or finely chopped nuts instead of granulated sugar for an exciting twist!
Personalize It: Experiment with different dried fruits or nuts. Each variation can lend a unique flavor, perfect for tailored seasonal treats!

What to Serve with Honey-Almond Sugar Plums?

Imagine a cozy holiday gathering where sweet treats mingle with delightful drinks and hearty bites—perfectly setting the scene for your festive Sugar Plums.

Cheese Platter:
Pair with a selection of creamy brie, sharp cheddar, and tangy blue cheese to create a sweet and savory balance, perfect for nibbling alongside your treats.
Warm Spiced Cider:
This comforting drink brings warmth and aromatic spices, enhancing the festive spirit and beautifully complementing the nutty flavors of the Sugar Plums.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle:
A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the Sugar Plums creates an irresistible combination, appealing to chocolate lovers who crave that sweet, rich contrast.
Fruit Salad:
Brighten your spread with a refreshing mix of seasonal fruits. The juicy bursts of citrus and berries elevate the flavors of the Sugar Plums beautifully.
Eggnog:
This classic holiday drink, rich and creamy, pairs wonderfully with the chewy texture of the Sugar Plums, inviting nostalgia while warming your heart.
Spiced Nuts:
A bowl of warm spiced nuts adds crunch and a savory element, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the Sugar Plums and inviting a delightful contrast of flavors.
Mini Gingerbread Cookies:
These festive little treats echo the spices in your Sugar Plums and make for a cheerful presentation on any holiday dessert table.
Mulled Wine:
This aromatic festive drink, infused with spices, not only warms you but enhances the flavors of your Sugar Plums, creating a beautifully paired holiday experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Honey-Almond Sugar Plums are ideal for busy home cooks looking to streamline their holiday prep! You can make the Sugar Plum mixture and form the balls up to 3 days in advance, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember to coat them in sugar only before serving to maintain that delightful crunch. For a stress-free finish, pull the prepared Sugar Plums out about 30 minutes prior to your gathering and let them come to room temperature; this enhances their flavor and texture. By preparing ahead, you’ll enjoy tasty, wholesome treats with minimal last-minute effort!

How to Store and Freeze Sugar Plums

Room Temperature: Store Sugar Plums in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. This keeps them fresh and conveniently accessible for snacking!

Refrigerator: For an even firmer texture, consider refrigerating the Sugar Plums for about an hour. They’ll maintain their delightful taste and chewy consistency when kept chilled.

Freezer: If you want to prepare ahead, freeze Sugar Plums in a single layer on a baking sheet for a couple of hours before transferring them to a labeled airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours before serving. This makes these festive treats a wholesome indulgence any time!

Sugar Plums: Delightful Customizations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you tailor these Sugar Plums to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Nut Variation: Substitute almonds with walnuts or pecans for a unique flavor and texture. Each nut brings its personality, so experiment to find your favorite.
Sweetener Swap: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly option. The richer flavor of maple adds a lovely depth to your treats.
Citrus Twist: Replace orange zest with lemon zest for a brighter, tangy note. This citrusy refresh can uplift the overall taste in a delightful way.
Spice It Up: Swap cinnamon with allspice or nutmeg to create a warm, aromatic treat that feels festive. Don’t be afraid to adjust according to your taste preference.
Dried Fruit Mix: Incorporate dried figs or apricots for a different flavor profile. These fruits will lend their sweetness and variance, making each batch excitingly new!
Add Sea Salt: A pinch of sea salt can bring a sweet-and-salty combination that elevates the flavor. It’s a simple touch that can make a big impact.
Coating Alternative: Instead of granulated sugar, roll the Sugar Plums in coconut sugar or finely chopped nuts for added texture and a rustic look. This creates a fun twist while staying mindful of ingredients.
Spicy Heat: For those who enjoy a kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or ground ginger to your mixture. It introduces a delightful contrast that can surprise your palate!

These nourishing bites are perfect for sharing, and you might enjoy serving them alongside a refreshing Iced Brown Sugar or a colorful platter of Sugar Cookie Fruit. Feel empowered to make them your own!

Sugar Plums Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best almonds for my Sugar Plums?
Absolutely! Look for almonds that are plump, with a smooth surface and minimal dark spots. Opt for raw or lightly salted almonds to ensure they enhance the flavor without overpowering the sweetness of the Sugar Plums.

How should I store my Sugar Plums to keep them fresh?
Store Sugar Plums in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If they start to harden, you can add a slice of bread to the container; it will help maintain their soft texture.

Can I freeze Sugar Plums?
Definitely! To freeze, lay the formed Sugar Plums in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, about 2 hours. Then, transfer them to a labeled airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature for a few hours!

What should I do if my mixture is too sticky to roll into balls?
Very! If you find the mixture is too sticky, consider chilling it in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes. This will firm it up and make rolling easier. Alternatively, you can add a bit more ground nuts or a touch of coconut flour to help with consistency.

Can Sugar Plums be made allergy-friendly?
Absolutely! To cater to nut allergies, you can swap out almonds for seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds. Just be cautious of cross-contamination, and always check the ingredients of any dried fruits you use, as some may contain allergens or sulfites.

How can I personalize my Sugar Plums recipe?
Make it your own! For a unique twist, substitute dried fruits like figs or apricots in place of prunes, and experiment with different nuts such as walnuts or cashews. Adding spices like nutmeg or cardamom can also elevate the flavor profile. The more the merrier!