Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies bring a festive touch to any gathering. These tender, buttery cookies have a hint of sweetness that melts in your mouth, making them a perfect addition to your holiday treat list. They are easy to make and always impress family and friends.
Your Ingredients List
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup candied plums, finely chopped
- Sprinkles or sugar for topping
My Go-To Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cookie cutters (optional)
The Simple Steps to Follow
- Cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together in a mixing bowl.
- Add the salt, flour, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the mixture.
- Stir until the dough comes together.
- Fold in the chopped candied plums gently.
- Chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into shapes.
- Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet and sprinkle with sugar or sprinkles.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving.
Healthy Twists on a Classic
For a healthier take on these cookies, you can swap half of the butter for unsweetened applesauce. This will give them a softer texture and cut down on the calories. You can also use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to add more fiber.
Serving Suggestions From My Table
Serve these cookies on a beautiful platter alongside a cup of hot cocoa or tea. They also make wonderful gifts. Just arrange them in a clear bag tied with a pretty ribbon, and you have a sweet present for anyone.
Getting It Just Right
To achieve the best flavor and texture, make sure your butter is truly softened but not melted. Chilling the dough is essential as it helps the cookies hold their shape during baking. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking!
How to Store Leftovers
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Place them in a freezer bag separated by parchment paper, and they can last up to three months.
Enjoy Every Moment
Baking these Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies is not just about the end result. It’s an opportunity to create memories in the kitchen with family and friends. Enjoy the process, relish in the smells, and, most importantly, share the results with those you love.
A Few Common Questions
How can I make Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies without nuts?
You can simply leave out the almond extract if you prefer a nut-free version. The cookies will still be delicious with vanilla flavor alone.
Can I use fresh plums in the Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies?
Fresh plums might add too much moisture to the dough, so it’s best to stick with candied plums or dried plums for the right texture. If you use fresh plums, be sure to chop them very finely.
What can I do with leftover dough?
If you have extra dough, you can shape it into a log, wrap it in plastic, and freeze it. When you’re ready, just slice and bake! This way, you can enjoy fresh cookies anytime.
Print
Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Tender, buttery cookies with a hint of sweetness and festive candied plums, great for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/2 cup candied plums, finely chopped
- Sprinkles or sugar for topping
Instructions
- Cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together in a mixing bowl.
- Add the salt, flour, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the mixture.
- Stir until the dough comes together.
- Fold in the chopped candied plums gently.
- Chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into shapes.
- Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet and sprinkle with sugar or sprinkles.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack before serving.
Notes
For a healthier version, substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce or use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: shortbread, cookies, festive baking, holiday treats, sugar plums