Introduction to Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies
As I stroll through the bustling streets filled with holiday cheer, the scent of spiced cookies brings back sweet memories. These Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies are my go-to treat during this festive season. They’re not just cookies; they’re little bites of joy waiting to brighten any gathering. These delightful treats come together effortlessly, making them perfect for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you whip up a batch, you’ll be the cookie hero at every holiday party!
Why You’ll Love This Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies
What’s not to adore about Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies? They’re quick to prepare, turning your kitchen into a cozy, aromatic haven in under an hour. The buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture is simply irresistible, while the hint of orange zest and spices evoke memories of festive gatherings around the fireplace. Plus, these cookies are versatile! Whether for family gatherings, cookie exchanges, or just a treat for yourself, they shine in any moment.
Ingredients for Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies
Gathering ingredients is where the fun begins! For these delightful Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies, you’ll need some key players:
- All-purpose flour: This forms the foundation of your cookies, giving them that lovely, tender structure.
- Ground cinnamon: A sprinkle of warmth, cinnamon brings a hint of sweetness and a holiday nostalgia to every bite.
- Ground cloves: Just a pinch adds depth and festive flavor, making these cookies taste like a cozy hug.
- Finely chopped pecans or walnuts: These nuts add a delightful crunch and richness. Don’t have either? Toasted almonds work beautifully as well.
- Granulated sugar: This sweetener lends the cookies their sugary goodness. You can substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier alternative!
- Freshly grated orange zest: The zest brightens up the flavors, bringing in a fresh note. If you’re short on oranges, lemon zest is an excellent substitute.
- Salted butter: Using room-temperature butter ensures easy blending. The saltiness perfectly balances the sweet elements.
- Jam: Choose your favorite—plum, raspberry, or even strawberry—to spread over the cookies. It adds a delightful pop of flavor and a burst of color.
- Granulated sugar and sparkling white sugar for sprinkling: These aren’t just for looks; they give a lovely crunch and a festive sparkle!
All these ingredients come together to create a magical treat that embodies the spirit of the holidays! You can find the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing when you’re set to bake.
How to Make Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into the joyful experience of making these delightful Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies. Baking can feel therapeutic, and with each step, the aroma will have your loved ones flocking to the kitchen. Follow along as I guide you through each stage of this simple yet rewarding recipe!
Step 1 – Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s preheat our oven to 325°F (163ºC). Preheating isn’t just a suggestion; it ensures that your cookies bake evenly. It’s like waking up early to enjoy a warm cup of coffee before starting your day. While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This small step makes for easy cleanup later and prevents sticking!
Step 2 – Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, finely chopped pecans or walnuts, and granulated sugar. Whisk them together until they’re blended beautifully. Picture this mixture as a cozy blanket of flavors just waiting to wrap your cookies in warmth and sweetness. Remember to equal parts fun and care—this is where the foundation of our cookies is built!
Step 3 – Incorporate Butter
Now, it’s time to add in the room-temperature salted butter. You can use a pastry blender or a stand mixer set to low speed. Mix until the mixture resembles fine crumbs that cling together like old friends reuniting. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect shortbread texture! Take your time; it’s worth every buttery moment!
Step 4 – Form the Dough
Turn the crumbly dough out onto a clean surface. Gently knead it with your hands until a smooth ball forms, like a soft snowball waiting for a toss. Then flatten it into a compact disk. This will make rolling much easier later on. Remember, the dough should be playful, but not overly sticky. If it is, sprinkle a little flour while kneading!
Step 5 – Roll and Cut
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about ½ inch (1.25 cm) thick. Use cookie cutters to shape the dough into charming holiday designs. Arrange the cut cookies about 2 inches apart on your parchment-lined baking sheets. Think of it as giving each cookie its space to shine, just like we all need a little room to sparkle!
Step 6 – Add Jam Topping
Now comes the moment where our cookies get their festive flair! Using a small pastry brush, spread a thin layer of your chosen jam over each cookie. Ensure to leave a little border around the edges to prevent any overflow while baking. This will create pockets of fruity goodness that will make each bite an explosion of flavors!
Step 7 – Baking the Cookies
Pop the baking sheets on the center rack of your preheated oven and set a timer for 18–22 minutes. The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden and the centers have set. Let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheet; they need a moment to gather their thoughts. The final touch? A sprinkle of granulated sugar followed by sparkling white sugar while they’re still warm. It’s like dressing them up for the holiday party!
Tips for Success
- Always use room-temperature butter for easy mixing and creamy texture.
- Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s key for even baking!
- Check your cookies a minute or two early to avoid overbaking.
- Let your cookies cool completely before storing to maintain their crunch.
- Feel free to experiment with different jams for unique flavor combos!
Equipment Needed
- Baking sheets: Essential for holding the cookies. Parchment paper is a must, but silicone mats work too!
- Medium bowl: For mixing dry ingredients. Any mixing bowl will do—get creative!
- Pastry blender or stand mixer: For incorporating butter. A fork works in a pinch!
- Rolling pin: To roll out the dough. A wine bottle can double as a great substitute!
- Cookie cutters: For shaping cookies. Fun molds or even a glass can be used!
Variations on Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies
- Chocolate-dipped: After baking, dip half of each cookie in melted dark or white chocolate for a decadent touch.
- Gluten-free version: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful treat everyone can enjoy.
- Citrus twist: Experiment with lemon or lime zest instead of orange for a refreshing and tangy flavor.
- Nut-free option: Omit the nuts or replace them with additional flour. This keeps the texture without compromising taste.
- Caramel drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel over cooled cookies for an indulgent, sweet topping.
Serving Suggestions for Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies
- Pair these delightful cookies with a steaming cup of spiced chai or peppermint tea for a cozy treat.
- Serve them on a festive platter with twinkling fairy lights to create a charming display.
- For a spin, add a dollop of whipped cream next to each cookie for extra indulgence!
- Present them as thoughtful gifts in decorative tins, tied with a beautiful ribbon.
FAQs about Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies
Can I use different types of jam for these cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your jam choices. Plum, raspberry, or strawberry work beautifully. The type you choose can really personalize your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies and tailor them to your family’s preferences.
How do I store the cookies to keep them fresh?
To maintain their delightful crunch, store your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container. It’s best to let them cool completely before sealing them up. They should stay fresh for about a week but trust me, they may be gone before then!
Can I freeze these cookies for later?
<pYes, indeed! You can freeze the baked cookies. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature, and if you like, pop them in the oven for a few minutes to refresh their texture!
What’s the secret to making the cookies extra tender?
The key to tender Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies lies in your butter. Make sure it’s at room temperature, so it blends well without overmixing. Keeping the dough chilled before baking can also enhance the texture!
Can I add more spices for extra flavor?
Absolutely! If you’re a spice enthusiast, feel free to experiment. A dash of nutmeg or ginger can add a uniquely warm flavor to your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies, making them even more festive!
Final Thoughts
Creating Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies is more than just baking; it’s about crafting memories and sharing joy with those you love. The aroma that fills your kitchen will whisk you away to holiday bliss, making those bustling days feel a little brighter. Every bite is a hug of warmth and nostalgia, perfect for cozy gatherings or simply indulging yourself. So, gather your loved ones around and let laughter, stories, and a plate of cookies spark joy in your home this season. Embrace this festive spirit, and make these cookies a cherished tradition!
Print
Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies are delightful festive treats with a rich buttery flavor, enhanced by spices and topped with a layer of jam and sparkling sugars.
Ingredients
- 315 g all-purpose flour
- 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
- 0.25 tsp ground cloves
- 30 g finely chopped pecans or walnuts
- 72 g granulated sugar
- 1.5 tbsp freshly grated orange zest
- 227 g salted butter, room temperature, cut into small pieces
- Jam, such as plum, raspberry, or strawberry, homemade or prepared
- Granulated sugar, for sprinkling
- Sparkling white sugar, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 163ºC. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, mix flour, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, finely chopped pecans or walnuts, granulated sugar, and orange zest until evenly combined.
- Using a pastry blender or a stand mixer with paddle attachment set to low speed, incorporate the butter into the dry mixture until it resembles fine crumbs and begins to cling together.
- Turn the crumbly dough onto a work surface and knead gently until it forms a smooth ball. Flatten into a compact disk.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to a thickness of 1.25 cm. Use cookie cutters to shape the dough, arranging cut pieces 5 cm apart on prepared baking sheets.
- Using a small pastry brush, spread a thin layer of jam over each cookie, leaving a border around the edges to prevent overflow.
- Bake on the centre rack for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and centres are set.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with granulated sugar followed by sparkling white sugar. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Experiment with different types of jam for variety.
- Cookies can be stored in an airtight container for several days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 85 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
