These Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies are a festive addition to your holiday baking repertoire. With a buttery shortbread base and the sweet flavor of sugar plums, these cookies are both elegant and comforting. Ideal for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or as a sweet gift, these shortbread cookies are sure to impress. Let’s bake these delightful treats that capture the magic of the holiday season!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients for Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies
- Instructions for Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies
- Tips & Notes
- Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients for Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup finely chopped dried plums (prunes)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for rolling)
Instructions for Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped dried plums until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- If desired, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon together in a small bowl. Roll each dough ball in the sugar mixture before placing on the baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake the Cookies
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Notes
- Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to make it easier to roll.
- Finely Chop the Plums: Make sure the dried plums are chopped finely so that they incorporate well into the dough without making it difficult to shape.
- Rolling in Sugar: Rolling the cookies in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon adds an extra festive touch and a hint of spice.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Add Nuts: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Different Dried Fruit: Substitute the dried plums with dried cranberries or dried cherries for a different flavor.
- Orange Zest: Add 1 teaspoon of orange zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy twist that pairs well with the plums.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I store Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be made in advance and kept refrigerated for up to 2 days. Let it soften slightly at room temperature before shaping and baking.
3. What if I don’t have dried plums?
If you don’t have dried plums, you can use other dried fruits like raisins, dried apricots, or dates for a similar sweetness.
These Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season. With their buttery texture, delicate sweetness, and the festive addition of dried plums, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Easy to make and full of holiday cheer, they’re perfect for sharing and gifting. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the magic of sugar plums in every bite!
Happy baking, and enjoy these festive treats!
