Some treats capture the essence of holiday magic, blending nostalgia with a sprinkle of elegance. Sugarplums are one such delight, combining dried fruits, toasted nuts, and warm spices for a confection that’s as enchanting as it is delicious.
Each bite offers a medley of chewy textures and comforting flavors, coated in a delicate sugar crust that adds just the right amount of sparkle. With their timeless charm and festive appeal, sugarplums are perfect for holiday gatherings or as thoughtful homemade gifts.
What makes these treats unforgettable? The balance of natural sweetness, aromatic spices, and a rustic, handcrafted feel. They’re a celebration of simplicity that embodies the spirit of the season.
This recipe brings old-world holiday traditions to life, offering a dessert that’s easy to make and even easier to share. Let’s create sugarplums that bring warmth, joy, and a touch of magic to your festivities!
Sugarplums
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling surface or tray
Ingredients
- ¼ cup coarsely chopped dried cranberries
- ¼ cup coarsely chopped skinless toasted hazelnuts
- ½ cup cup coarsely chopped pitted dates
- 2 tbsp cherry preserves
- ⅛ tsp ground cloves
- ¼ cup coarsely chopped prunes
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup coarsely chopped toasted walnut
Instructions
- Combine the dates, walnuts, cranberries, prunes, and hazelnuts in a food processor.
- Pulse until coarsely mixed.
- Add the cherry preserves, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Pulse again until the mixture holds together when pressed but still has texture.
- Avoid over-processing.
- Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls. Coat each ball in granulated sugar.
Notes
- For a finer coating, use powdered sugar instead of granulated.
- Adjust the spices to your taste—nutmeg makes a great addition.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 63 || Total Fat: 2g || Carbohydrates: 11g || Protein: 1g
What To Avoid While Making this Recipe?
1. While making sugarplums, avoid over-processing the mixture in the food processor, as it can turn into a sticky paste instead of maintaining a coarse texture.
2. Don’t skip toasting the nuts, as it enhances their flavor and adds depth to the candy.
3. Lastly, avoid using overly wet preserves, which can make the mixture too soft to shape into balls.