Sugar plum cookies bring a delightful twist to classic holiday treats. These charming cookies combine a buttery base with the sweet, fruity flavor of sugar plums, creating a perfect balance that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering or just craving something special, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
To create our delicious Sugar Plum Cookies with the perfect balance of flavors and texture, we’ll need a precise combination of ingredients. Let’s break down everything required to make these festive treats come to life.
Dry Ingredients
These ingredients form the foundation of our cookie dough, providing structure and flavor depth.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted for lightness
- 1 teaspoon baking powder, to ensure a tender crumb
- ½ teaspoon baking soda, for subtle lift
- ¼ teaspoon salt, to enhance sweetness balance
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, to add holiday warmth
Wet Ingredients
The wet ingredients combine to create our smooth, buttery dough that melts in your mouth.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- ¾ cup granulated sugar, for sweetness and texture
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed, for moistness and caramel notes
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature, binding ingredients perfectly
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, for rich aroma
Special Ingredients for Sugar Plum Flavor
To capture the essence of sugar plum, these special ingredients bring the unique fruity and festive character to our cookies.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Dried sugar plums, chopped | ¾ cup | Sweet, chewy fruit pieces |
| Ground cloves | ¼ teaspoon | Adds a warm spicy undertone |
| Almond extract | ½ teaspoon | Enhances the fruity complexity |
| Orange zest, finely grated | 1 tablespoon | Brightens and freshens flavor profile |
By carefully combining these dry, wet, and special sugar plum ingredients, we craft a cookie dough that bursts with holiday spirit and irresistible taste.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Sugar Plum Cookies, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool plays a vital role in achieving the ideal texture and flavor, so let’s walk through everything we need to bring this festive recipe to life.
Mixing Tools
- Large Mixing Bowl: We use this to combine the dry ingredients evenly before adding the wet ingredients.
- Medium Mixing Bowl: Ideal for creaming butter and sugar smoothly, ensuring a light and fluffy dough.
- Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: This tool helps us blend the ingredients efficiently, creating a uniform dough without overmixing.
- Rubber or Silicone Spatula: Essential for scraping down the sides of bowls to incorporate all ingredients thoroughly.
Measuring Tools
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements are crucial, especially with spices and extracts like ground cloves and almond extract in our Sugar Plum Cookies.
- Kitchen Scale (optional): For the most accurate measurements of flour or chopped dried sugar plums, a scale can enhance consistency.
Baking and Preparation Tools
- Baking Sheets: We recommend using heavy-duty, rimmed baking sheets to bake the cookies evenly.
- Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: These prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Cooling Rack: For properly setting the cookies once they come out of the oven, helping maintain their texture.
- Cookie Scoop or Tablespoon: This ensures uniform cookie shapes and sizes, promoting even baking.
Specialty Tools
- Fine Zester or Microplane: Perfect for zesting the orange peel finely to infuse the cookie dough with fresh, citrus aroma.
- Knife and Cutting Board: We use these to chop the dried sugar plums finely so they mix evenly throughout the dough.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Combine dry ingredients |
| Medium Mixing Bowl | Cream butter and sugar |
| Electric Mixer | Blend dough efficiently |
| Rubber Spatula | Scrape bowl sides |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Precise ingredient measurement |
| Kitchen Scale | Accurate flour and plum measurement (optional) |
| Baking Sheets | Even baking surface |
| Parchment Paper/Mat | Prevent sticking and easy cleanup |
| Cooling Rack | Proper cooling and texture retention |
| Cookie Scoop | Uniform cookie sizing |
| Fine Zester/Microplane | Orange zest extraction |
| Knife & Cutting Board | Chop dried sugar plums |
By assembling this equipment arsenal before starting, we’ll streamline the baking process and guarantee our Sugar Plum Cookie Recipe turns out just right—soft, flavorful, and festive.
Prep Work
Before we begin mixing our Sugar Plum Cookie dough, some essential preparation steps ensure smooth baking and enhance the cookies’ festive flavors.
Preparing the Sugar Plums
To capture the distinctive sweetness of sugar plums in our cookies, we start by finely chopping the dried sugar plums. This step releases their natural fruitiness and incorporates even bursts of flavor throughout the dough.
- Use a sharp knife to chop the dried sugar plums into small, uniform pieces—about 1/4-inch in size.
- Place the chopped pieces in a small bowl and set aside at room temperature to soften slightly; this helps them blend seamlessly into the dough.
By properly prepping the sugar plums, we ensure each bite has a delightful fruity surprise that complements the buttery cookie base.
Preheating the Oven and Preparing Baking Sheets
Setting the oven to the correct temperature before mixing the dough is crucial for even baking and perfect texture.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | Preheat to 350°F (175°C) |
| Baking Sheets | Line two heavy-duty baking sheets with parchment paper |
| Spacing | Leave about 2 inches of space between cookie dough balls to prevent spreading |
- While the oven preheats, arrange our baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
- Using the cookie scoop we assembled during equipment prep will help shape uniform cookies for consistent baking time.
By completing these prep steps carefully, we set ourselves up for Sugar Plum Cookies that bake evenly with a perfect tender crumb and vibrant fruit notes.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps for crafting perfectly tender and flavorful Sugar Plum Cookies. Our method ensures each bite delivers a delightful balance of buttery texture and fruity sweetness.
Making the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- In a separate medium bowl, cream together the wet ingredients using an electric mixer on medium speed:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
Beat for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon almond extract and 1 tablespoon freshly grated orange zest to infuse the dough with festive citrus and almond aroma.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain tenderness.
Incorporating Sugar Plums
- Fold in 1 cup finely chopped dried sugar plums gently but thoroughly using a rubber spatula.
- Ensure the pieces are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step is crucial for delivering bursts of natural plum sweetness in every bite.
Tip: Chopping the sugar plums into uniform 1/4-inch pieces creates a consistent texture and prevents large dry clumps.
Shaping the Cookies
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line heavy-duty baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Using a cookie scoop (about 1.5 tablespoons size), portion dough balls evenly.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Dough ball size | 1.5 tablespoons |
| Spacing on sheet | 2 inches apart |
| Oven temperature | 350°F (175°C) |
| Baking time | 10-12 minutes |
- Arrange dough balls on the prepared sheets, keeping at least 2 inches between each to prevent merging.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
- Transfer cookies to a cooling rack immediately to set the shape and cool completely.
By meticulously following these instructions, our Sugar Plum Cookies emerge soft, aromatic, and perfect for celebrating the holiday season with a unique fruity twist.
Baking Directions
Let’s move forward to baking our Sugar Plum Cookies to perfection. Following precise baking times and temperatures will help us achieve that tender crumb and vibrant flavor every holiday table deserves.
Baking Time and Temperature
We preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure an even bake that gently brings out the buttery richness and fruity notes of the sugar plums. Then, we place the dough balls spaced about 2 inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets for uniform heat distribution.
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 350°F (175°C) |
| Cookie Dough Ball Size | 1.5 tablespoons |
| Spacing Between Cookies | 2 inches |
| Baking Duration | 10 to 12 minutes |
During baking, the cookies will slightly spread and develop light golden edges while staying soft in the center. We watch closely during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking which can dry out their tender texture.
Cooling and Setting
Once our cookies emerge from the oven, we transfer the baking sheet to a wire cooling rack immediately. This step allows airflow beneath the cookies preventing condensation and keeping them crisp on the bottom without hardening the centers.
We let them cool on the rack for at least 10 minutes. This rest period lets the sugar plums settle evenly throughout the cookie enhancing flavor depth and aroma.
“Cooling properly is just as important as baking at the right temperature—it locks in moisture and prevents crumbling.”
After cooling, we store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve their soft, festive texture and that irresistible sugar plum flavor burst for days to come.
Decorating Ideas
Elevate our Sugar Plum Cookie presentation with festive and flavorful decorating ideas that complement their fruity, buttery essence. Here are some simple yet elegant ways to enhance both the look and taste of our cookies.
1. Glaze Drizzle with Citrus Zest
Prepare a light glaze using powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of water. Once the cookies have cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the tops using a spoon or piping bag.
- Garnish with fresh orange or lemon zest to echo the cookie’s zesty notes.
- The glaze adds a shiny, sweet finish that contrasts with the soft cookie texture perfectly.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | 1 cup | Sweet base of the glaze |
| Lemon juice | 1-2 tablespoons | Adds brightness |
| Water | 1-2 teaspoons | Adjusts glaze consistency |
| Orange zest | 1 teaspoon | Garnish & flavor boost |
“A dash of citrus zest on top ties back beautifully to the orange zest in the dough, amplifying the holiday flavor profile.”
2. Sugared Cranberries and Silver Dragees
For a sparkling holiday look, arrange sugared cranberries atop the cookies after glazing. Roll fresh cranberries in superfine sugar and let them dry for a few hours before placing them on each cookie.
- Add silver or pearl dragees for a sparkling contrast.
- This combination makes the cookies look festive and invites a slight tartness to balance the sweetness.
3. Almond Slices or Chopped Pistachios
Sprinkle toasted almond slices or chopped pistachios on the cookie edges before baking or just after glazing.
- Adds crunch and a nutty aroma.
- Green pistachios enhance the seasonal color palette.
4. Dusting with Ground Cinnamon or Nutmeg
A gentle dusting of ground cinnamon or nutmeg boosts the warm spices already present in the cookie dough.
- Use a fine sieve to sprinkle evenly right before serving.
- This finishing touch heightens the holiday spice appeal and visual warmth.
5. Royal Icing Snowflake Designs
For cookie decorators eager to impress, royal icing snowflakes add holiday charm.
- Use a piping bag fitted with a small round tip.
- Outline snowflakes or petite sugar plums using white or pastel royal icing.
- Allow icing to dry completely before stacking or packaging.
Decorating Tips Table
| Decorating Idea | Best Timing | Visual Effect | Flavor Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glaze Drizzle + Citrus Zest | After cooling | Shiny, bright | Sweet with tangy citrus notes |
| Sugared Cranberries + Dragees | After glazing | Sparkling, festive | Tart and sweet contrast |
| Almond Slices / Pistachios | Before or after baking | Crunchy, colorful | Nutty and aromatic |
| Cinnamon / Nutmeg Dusting | Before serving | Warm, rustic | Enhanced holiday spice |
| Royal Icing Snowflakes | After baking & cooling | Detailed, festive | Sweet decorative touch |
By using these decorating ideas we create a stunning display that honors the traditional charm and unique fruity flavor of our Sugar Plum Cookies. These techniques turn our baking into a memorable holiday centerpiece perfect for gifting or sharing.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing our Sugar Plum Cookies in advance helps us manage holiday baking stress while maintaining fresh flavor and the perfect texture. Here are essential make-ahead tips to ensure our cookies turn out soft, festive, and bursting with fruity sweetness.
1. Chill the Cookie Dough
- After mixing the dough and folding in the finely chopped dried sugar plums, chill the dough in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours.
- This resting period allows the dough to firm up, preventing excess spreading during baking and intensifying the flavors.
2. Pre-shape the Cookie Dough Balls
- To save time on baking day, portion the dough into 1-tablespoon-sized balls using a cookie scoop.
- Place the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring 2 inches spacing to avoid sticking.
- Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- On baking day, simply transfer chilled dough balls to the preheated oven.
3. Freeze for Longer Storage
- For extended make-ahead planning, freeze raw dough balls.
- Arrange dough balls in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid (about 1 hour).
- Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag.
- Label with the date; frozen dough remains fresh for up to 3 months.
- Bake frozen dough balls without thawing, adding 1 to 2 extra minutes to baking time at 350°F (175°C).
4. Assemble Decor Elements Ahead
- If planning to decorate sugar plum cookies with citrus glaze, sugared cranberries, or nuts, prepare those toppings 1 to 2 days in advance.
- Store in airtight containers at room temperature or refrigerated depending on the ingredient.
- This ensures decorating is a quick and enjoyable step after baking.
Make-Ahead Baking Table
| Step | Method | Storage Time | Baking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chill whole dough | Airtight container/plastic wrap | 2 to 24 hours | Firm dough avoids spreading |
| Pre-shaped dough balls | Refrigerate covered | Overnight (~12 hours) | Ready to bake, spaced on sheet |
| Freeze dough balls | Freeze on tray then bag | Up to 3 months | Bake frozen, add 1-2 mins to time |
| Prepare decorations | Airtight containers | 1-2 days | Keeps toppings fresh and ready |
“Chilling our dough is a crucial step to preserve texture and deepen the festive flavors of our Sugar Plum Cookies.“
By following these Make-Ahead Tips we streamline our baking process and enjoy perfectly textured cookies infused with the nostalgic sweetness of sugar plums and holiday spices.
Storage Recommendations
To maintain the freshness and flavor of our Sugar Plum Cookies, proper storage is essential. Follow these expert tips to keep your cookies soft, aromatic, and as delightful as the moment they came out of the oven.
Storing at Room Temperature
- Place completely cooled cookies in an airtight container to prevent exposure to air and moisture.
- Separate cookie layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
- Keep the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Cookies stored this way stay fresh for up to 5 days.
Refrigeration Tips
- If you prefer longer storage, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container.
- To prevent dryness, add a slice of bread in the container; it will keep cookies moist by absorbing excess air moisture.
- Refrigerated cookies can last for up to 2 weeks.
- Bring cookies to room temperature before serving for peak flavor.
Freezing Sugar Plum Cookies
For extended freshness and convenience, freezing is an excellent option.
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Ensure cookies are fully cooled before freezing |
| Packaging | Use freezer-safe, airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags; layer with parchment paper |
| Freezing Duration | Up to 3 months |
| Thawing Method | Thaw at room temperature for 1-2 hours or warm gently in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes |
| Baking from Frozen Dough | Bake extra 2-3 minutes at 350°F if using frozen dough balls |
Quotes to Remember
“Airtight containers are the best keepers of soft, aromatic Sugar Plum Cookies.”
“Freezing preserves not just freshness, but the festive spirit baked into every bite.”
By following these Storage Recommendations, we ensure our Sugar Plum Cookies retain their tender crumb, delicate spice notes, and the signature fruity burst of sugar plums for every holiday celebration.
Conclusion
Baking Sugar Plum Cookies offers a wonderful way to bring festive flavors into your kitchen. With their delicate balance of buttery dough and fruity sweetness, these cookies stand out as a holiday favorite.
By following the recipe and tips we’ve shared, you can create treats that not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any holiday platter. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or gifting loved ones, these cookies deliver a unique and memorable experience.
We’re confident that once you try this recipe, Sugar Plum Cookies will become a cherished part of your seasonal traditions. Happy baking!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are sugar plum cookies?
Sugar plum cookies are buttery holiday cookies featuring chopped dried sugar plums, ground cloves, almond extract, and orange zest. They offer a soft texture with a unique fruity and festive flavor.
What ingredients do I need to make sugar plum cookies?
You’ll need dry ingredients like flour and spices, wet ingredients such as butter, sugar, and eggs, plus special additions like chopped dried sugar plums, ground cloves, almond extract, and orange zest for that signature taste.
What equipment is essential for baking sugar plum cookies?
Use mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, baking sheets lined with parchment paper, a cooling rack, a cookie scoop, a fine zester, and a knife for best results.
How do I prepare the sugar plums for the cookies?
Chop dried sugar plums finely and uniformly to release their sweetness evenly throughout the cookie dough.
What is the ideal baking temperature and time for these cookies?
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes. Cookies should have light golden edges and remain soft and tender in the center.
How should I space the cookie dough on the baking sheet?
Place dough balls about 2 inches apart to prevent spreading and ensure even baking.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, chill the dough for at least 2 hours or refrigerate pre-shaped dough balls overnight. Dough balls can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
How do I store sugar plum cookies to keep them fresh?
Store fully cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
What decorating ideas suit sugar plum cookies?
Try lemon glaze drizzles, sugared cranberries, silver dragees, toasted almonds, cinnamon dusting, or royal icing snowflakes for festive presentation.
How do I prevent cookies from sticking to the baking sheet?
Line baking sheets with parchment paper before placing dough balls to ensure easy removal and even baking.