These treats are simple to make and require no baking, making them perfect for quick holiday preparation. They’re packed with wholesome ingredients and can be easily customized to your taste. The blend of fruits, nuts, and spices creates a rich, complex flavor, while the sugar coating gives them a charming, snowy finish. They also store well, making them great for gifting.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
dried plums (prunes) dried apricots dates chopped nuts (such as walnuts or almonds) orange zest honey or maple syrup ground cinnamon ground nutmeg ground cloves granulated sugar (for coating)
Directions
Start by placing the dried plums, apricots, and dates in a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped and combined into a sticky mixture.
Add the chopped nuts, orange zest, honey or maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Pulse again until everything is well blended and holds together when pressed.
Scoop small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls using your hands.
Roll each ball in granulated sugar until evenly coated.
Place the sugar plums on a tray and let them set at room temperature for about an hour, allowing them to firm up slightly.
Once set, they’re ready to serve or store.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 20 sugar plums. Preparation time: 15 minutes Setting time: 1 hour Total time: about 1 hour 15 minutes
Variations
You can swap the dried fruits based on your preference, such as using figs or raisins. Add shredded coconut for extra texture or roll the balls in powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar. A splash of vanilla extract or a bit of citrus juice can enhance the flavor. For a more spiced version, increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of ginger.
Storage/Reheating
Store sugar plums in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw at room temperature before serving. Reheating is not necessary.
FAQs
What are sugar plums made of?
They are typically made from dried fruits, nuts, sweeteners, and spices rolled into small balls.
Do sugar plums contain actual plums?
Traditionally they may, but many versions include a mix of dried fruits, not just plums.
Are they very sweet?
They are naturally sweet from the dried fruits, with a light sugar coating.
Can I make them nut-free?
Yes, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds.
Do I need a food processor?
It’s helpful, but you can finely chop everything by hand if needed.
Can I make them vegan?
Yes, use maple syrup instead of honey.
How do I keep them from sticking?
Lightly coat your hands with oil or water when rolling.
Can I add chocolate?
Yes, small chocolate chips can be mixed into the filling.
Are they healthy?
They’re made from natural ingredients, but should still be enjoyed in moderation.
Can I gift them?
Absolutely, they make a beautiful homemade gift when packaged nicely.
Conclusion
Sugar Plums are a timeless treat that blends natural sweetness with warm spices in a simple, no-bake form. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, they’re perfect for holidays, snacking, or thoughtful homemade gifts.
These Sugar Plums are a classic no-bake holiday treat made with dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, rolled in sugar for a festive finish. Naturally sweet and easy to make, this traditional sugar plum recipe is perfect for gifting, snacking, or adding a nostalgic touch to your dessert table.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:15 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 15 minutes
Yield:20 sugar plums
Category:Dessert, Snack
Method:No-Bake
Cuisine:Traditional / Holiday
Diet:Vegan
Ingredients
1 cup dried plums (prunes)
1/2 cup dried apricots
1/2 cup dates, pitted
1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)
1 tsp orange zest
1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Pinch of ground cloves
1/3 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
Instructions
Add dried plums, apricots, and dates to a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped and sticky.
Add nuts, orange zest, honey or maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Pulse until well combined and the mixture holds together.
Scoop small portions and roll into bite-sized balls using your hands.
Roll each ball in granulated sugar until evenly coated.
Place on a tray and let set at room temperature for about 1 hour to firm up.
Serve or store once set.
Notes
Lightly oil hands to prevent sticking when rolling.Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey/maple syrup.Roll in powdered sugar or coconut for a different finish.
