Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies Recipe

If you are searching for a festive treat that brings warmth, sweetness, and a subtle hint of spice to your gatherings, look no further than these enchanting Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies. With their buttery crumbly texture, delightful interplay of not just sugar plums but also aromatic cinnamon and cloves, and a luscious jam topping, these cookies create a perfect holiday moment. Every bite feels like a little celebration, making Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies a treasured classic you’ll want to bake again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each bringing its own magic to the Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies. From the rich, creamy butter that provides the perfect shortbread texture to the fragrant spices and bright fresh orange zest that elevate the flavors, every element works in harmony.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, giving structure and tenderness to each cookie.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and an inviting aroma that’s perfect for festive baking.
• Ground cloves: A pinch of earthy spice that deepens the cookie’s flavor profile.
• Chopped pecans or walnuts: These nuts lend a gentle crunch and a subtle nutty richness.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just right while balancing the spices and nuts.
• Freshly grated orange zest: Brings a bright, citrusy zing to the cookies, cutting through the sweetness beautifully.
• Salted butter: Essential for that melt-in-your-mouth shortbread texture and a hint of savory contrast.
• Jam (plum, raspberry, or strawberry): The star topping that adds fruity sweetness and a splash of color.
• Granulated sugar and sparkling white sugar: Sprinkled on top for a sparkling, crunchy finish that catches the eye.

How to Make Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 163ºC and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick. Having all ingredients ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ground cinnamon, cloves, chopped nuts, sugar, and bright orange zest. This blend sets the perfect spicy, nutty base for your cookies and distributes flavors evenly.

Step 3: Incorporate the Butter

Using a pastry blender or stand mixer on low, mix in the softened butter until the mixture looks like fine crumbs that start to hold together. This step is crucial—it creates the delicate texture that is the hallmark of Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies.

Step 4: Form the Dough

Turn the crumbly mixture out onto your work surface and gently knead it into a smooth ball. Then flatten it into a disk, ready to roll out. Gentle handling here avoids overworking the dough, which keeps your cookies tender.

Step 5: Roll Out and Cut the Cookies

Lightly flour your surface and roll the dough to about 1.25 cm thick. Use your favorite cookie cutters to shape each cookie. Space them about 5 cm apart on the baking sheets to give them room to bake evenly without merging.

Step 6: Add Jam Topping

With a small pastry brush, spread a thin layer of jam over each cookie, leaving a neat border to prevent the jam from spilling over. The jam choice lets you customize your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies with your favorite fruity flavor.

Step 7: Bake and Finish

Bake your cookies on the center oven rack for 18–22 minutes until the edges are lightly browned and the centers set. While still warm, sprinkle granulated sugar followed by sparkling white sugar for a beautiful, festive sparkle. Let them cool on the baking sheet before indulging.

How to Serve Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies

Garnishes

Enhance your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies with delicate garnishes like a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of white chocolate for extra sweetness. Fresh mint or small edible flowers can add a pretty, seasonal touch perfect for holiday platters.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a steaming cup of spiced tea, hot cocoa topped with whipped cream, or even a glass of chilled milk. The rich, buttery texture and jammy sweetness of the cookies perfectly complement warm or cool beverages, making any snack break feel special.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies on decorative platters with sprigs of rosemary or cranberries for a festive centerpiece. Pack them in pretty tins or cellophane bags tied with colorful ribbons for charming homemade gifts that everyone will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay deliciously tender for up to a week, making them an ideal make-ahead treat for busy holiday schedules.

Freezing

If you want to prepare in advance, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you want them, simply thaw at room temperature to enjoy that freshly baked charm anytime.

Reheating

For a freshly baked feel, warm your cookies gently in a low oven or microwave for a few seconds. This revives their buttery softness and awakens the wonderful aroma of spices and jam, making them taste like you just pulled them from the oven.

FAQs

Can I use different nuts for the Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies?

Absolutely! Pecans and walnuts are great choices, but feel free to experiment with almonds or hazelnuts to suit your taste. Just make sure they are finely chopped to blend well with the dough texture.

What type of jam works best for these cookies?

Classic plum jam is a beautiful choice to complement the cookie’s name, but raspberry or strawberry jams also add vibrant color and sweetness. Homemade or store-bought jams are both excellent options depending on your preference.

Is it necessary to use salted butter?

Salted butter is recommended because the salt balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor. However, if you only have unsalted butter, add a tiny pinch of salt to the dry ingredients to achieve the same effect.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This resting time deepens the flavors and makes rolling easier. Just remember to bring it back to a workable temperature before rolling and cutting.

How thick should I roll the dough?

Rolling the dough to about 1.25 cm thickness ensures the cookies bake evenly and retain their delicate shortbread texture. Going too thin might make them crispy, while thicker dough could require longer baking.

Final Thoughts

Baking Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies is truly a joyful experience that fills your kitchen with festive aromas and your heart with warmth. They offer an irresistible combination of flavors and textures that can brighten any celebration. Trust me, once you make these cookies, they’ll become a beloved part of your holiday traditions—so grab your apron and start baking!