Sugar plums
Quick and easy no-bake sugar plums made with wholesome dried fruit, nuts, warm spices, and natural sweeteners. These versatile treats are perfect for festive snacks, gifts, or a delightful anytime indulgence that can be customized to suit dietary preferences.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 sugar plums
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Dried Fruit
- Classic dried plums or prune halves – roughly chopped
Nuts
- Walnuts, pecans, or almonds – chopped
Sweeteners
- Honey or maple syrup – to bind and sweeten
Spices and Aromatics
- Cinnamon – to taste
- Nutmeg – to taste
- Fresh orange zest – grated
Coating
- Powdered sugar or shredded coconut flakes – for rolling
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by roughly chopping your dried fruit and nuts. Set aside your spices and orange zest, making sure everything is easy to mix later.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped dried plums and nuts, then sprinkle in the cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest for a beautifully aromatic base.
- Add Sweetener and Combine: Drizzle honey or maple syrup evenly over the mixture. Use a spoon or your hands to gently mix until the ingredients begin to clump together.
- Shape the Sugar Plums: Pinch off small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about the size of a walnut. This part is fun and easy, perfect for involving kids or guests.
- Roll in Finishing Touches: Roll each plum ball in powdered sugar or shredded coconut to coat lightly, giving them a classic look and an extra hint of sweetness.
- Chill and Set: Place the formed sugar plums on a tray lined with parchment paper and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up before serving.
Notes
- Let dried fruit and nuts come to room temperature for easier mixing and better flavor.
- Chop nuts and fruit finely to help the sugar plums hold their shape.
- Taste the mixture before shaping and adjust sweetness or spices as needed.
- Wear disposable gloves when rolling to keep hands clean and prevent sticking.
- Store sugar plums in layers separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sugar plum (approx.)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: sugar plums, no bake, holiday treats, dried fruit snacks, nutty sweets, festive confections, healthy snacks, gluten free dessert