Sugarplums dance in our heads as visions of sweet treats, often associated with the festive season. But what exactly is a sugarplum? Contrary to what the name might suggest, it isn’t actually a plum! Historically, sugarplums were small candies made with sugar and often contained a nut or seed center. These treats were enjoyed for their delightful sweetness and satisfying crunch.
Today, “sugarplum” can refer to various sweet treats, including candies, cookies, and even some pastries. This guide will walk you through crafting your own homemade sugarplums that capture the essence of this classic confection.
Gather Your Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to embark on this sweet adventure:
- 1 cup dried fruits (prunes, apricots, dates, or a mix)
- ½ cup nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, or a mix), toasted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup powdered sugar, for coating
Optional additions:
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder, for a chocolatey twist
- 1 teaspoon orange zest, for a citrusy aroma
- ¼ cup shredded coconut, for extra texture and flavor
Tools of the Trade
- Food processor
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Let’s Make Sugarplums!
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Prepare the fruits and nuts: If your dried fruits are large, chop them into smaller pieces. Lightly toast the nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant. Let them cool slightly, then chop them coarsely.
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Combine the ingredients: In a food processor, combine the dried fruits, nuts, honey (or maple syrup), cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pulse until the mixture comes together into a sticky paste.
Tip: If the mixture seems too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
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Shape the sugarplums: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using your hands, roll small portions of the mixture into bite-sized balls.
Get Creative: You can also shape them into other festive forms, such as small logs or stars.
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Coat with powdered sugar: Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Gently roll each sugarplum in the powdered sugar until evenly coated.
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Chill and serve: Arrange the sugarplums on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
Sugarplums on a plate
Tips and Tricks for Sugarplum Perfection
- Choosing your dried fruits: Experiment with different combinations of dried fruits to create unique flavor profiles. For a tangier twist, try adding dried cranberries or cherries.
- Toasting the nuts: Toasting the nuts enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the sugarplums.
- Adjusting sweetness: If you prefer your sugarplums less sweet, reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup used.
- Storage: Store your homemade sugarplums in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
FAQs About Sugarplums
Q: Can I use store-bought nut butter instead of whole nuts?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the nuts and oil with ½ cup of your favorite nut butter. Almond butter, cashew butter, or peanut butter would all work well.
Q: I’m allergic to nuts. Are there any substitutes I can use?
A: Yes, you can replace the nuts with seeds like sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or hemp seeds. Roasted and chopped oats or puffed quinoa can also add a pleasant crunch.
Q: My sugarplums are too sticky to roll. What can I do?
A: If the mixture is too wet, add a tablespoon of powdered sugar or finely ground oats to help bind it. Refrigerating the mixture for 15-20 minutes before rolling can also make it easier to handle.
Ingredients for sugarplums
A Sweet Conclusion
Making your own sugarplums at home is a rewarding experience that allows you to customize this classic treat to your liking. These bite-sized delights are perfect for gifting, sharing with loved ones, or simply enjoying as a special treat. So gather your ingredients and embark on a sweet culinary adventure!
Don’t forget to share your sugarplum creations with us! Leave a comment below and tell us about your favorite flavor combinations and shaping techniques.
