Name: Delightful Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 57 min
Ingredients: 1 cup butter (softened, preferably salted); ¾ cup sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend); 1 cup pecan (chopped, or alternative nuts); 1 teaspoon cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon cloves (use sparingly); 1 tablespoon orange zest (from one orange); ½ cup jam (raspberry or sugar plum); 2 tablespoons sparkling sugar

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As I watched the first snowflakes twirl lazily to the ground, an unmistakable craving for something sweet and festive swept over me. That’s when I decided to whip up a batch of Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies, the ultimate treat to welcome the holiday season. With their delightful crunch and a burst of fruity jam, these cookies bring warmth and joy, making them a perfect addition to any festive gathering. Not only are they quick to prepare, but they also provide a charming homemade touch that beats any store-bought option. So, whether you’re stacking them on a holiday cookie tray or slipping them into a gift box for friends, these cookies are bound to become a cherished tradition. Curious to try your hand at making them? Let’s dive in!

Why are Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies special?

Festive Flavors: These cookies sing with delicate notes of cinnamon, cloves, and orange that embody holiday spirit.

Visual Appeal: Topped with vibrant jam and sparkling sugar, they are as beautiful as they are delicious, making them perfect for gifting or holiday trays.

Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can have a batch ready in no time—ideal for those who want homemade without the hassle.

Customizable Delight: Feel free to adapt using different jams or nuts, allowing you to create a unique flavor profile that suits your tastes.

Perfect for Sharing: They’re a crowd-pleaser at festive gatherings, sure to leave guests asking for the recipe! Whether you pair them with a cozy cup of tea or include them in a cookie exchange, these cookies are bound to spread joy.

Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

Butter – Use salted for richness and added flavor, ensuring a delicious foundation.
Sugar – Sweetens the cookies, balancing the spices for a delightful taste.
All-purpose Flour – Forms the structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to maintain the recipe’s charm.
Pecan (or alternative nuts) – Adds crunch and nutty flavors; omit for nut-free or replace with seeds if allergic.
Cinnamon – Brings warm, aromatic spiciness, essential for that holiday feeling.
Cloves – Intensifies warm notes; use sparingly as its flavor can be quite strong.
Orange Zest – Infuses the cookies with a citrus brightness, enhancing overall flavor complexity.

For the Topping

Jam (raspberry or sugar plum) – Provides sweetness and fruitiness on top; adapt based on availability, using other jams if desired.
Sparkling Sugar – Creates a festive crunch and aesthetic appeal, making each cookie truly shine.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and ¾ cup sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-5 minutes. Gradually add in 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of chopped pecans, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of cloves, and the zest of one orange. Mix until a crumbly dough forms, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.

Step 2: Chill
Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough improves its texture and makes it easier to roll out. The dough should feel firm when you remove it from the fridge, making it ready for shaping into delightful Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies.

Step 3: Roll Out
On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough to about ½-inch thickness. Use a rolling pin, and make sure to flour the pin to prevent sticking. Once you achieve that lovely thickness, you’re ready to proceed to the fun part—cutting out your cookies!

Step 4: Cut Shapes
Using cookie cutters, cut the dough into your desired shapes. Place each cut-out cookie about 2 inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets. This spacing allows the cookies room to spread slightly while baking, ensuring they maintain their beautiful shapes as Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies.

Step 5: Add Jam
Using a small paintbrush, gently apply a light layer of jam on top of each cookie, being careful not to overload. Choose a vibrant raspberry or sugar plum jam for a pop of color and flavor. A delicate touch ensures that the jam enhances rather than overwhelms the cookie, highlighting its sweet, spiced goodness.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them as they bake; that golden edging is your sign they’re ready to be pulled out and allowed to cool.

Step 7: Cool
Transfer the freshly baked Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies to wire racks, allowing them to cool completely. Patience is key here, as cooling will enhance their texture. Once cooled, they’ll be ready for sharing, gifting, or enjoying by the cozy fire!

Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies Variations

Feel free to personalize these delightful cookies with fun twists and substitutions that cater to your taste buds!

Jam Variety: Swap raspberry jam for apricot or orange marmalade for differing flavor surprises. A change in fruit can create a whole new experience!
Nut-Free Option: Omit pecans for a nut-free version. Alternatively, use sunflower seeds for that satisfying crunch without the worry of allergens.
Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy. Just be sure to check for the right baking blend!
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of ground cardamom for an extra layer of exotic spice that envelopes each bite in warmth and depth. It’s a simple touch that can elevate your cookies.
Cinnamon Swirl: For added texture, sprinkle a layer of cinnamon sugar on top of the jam before baking. This gives a sweet and spiced crunchy finish, everyone will love.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over cooled cookies for a decadent twist. The rich chocolate complements the fruitiness beautifully, making them irresistible.
Herbal Infusion: Incorporate a pinch of finely chopped fresh rosemary into the dough for an unexpected herbal note that adds sophistication to your holiday treats.
Extra Citrus: Amplify the orange zest by adding in some lemon zest as well for a refreshing twist. The citrus blend creates a light and bright flavor profile that truly freshens the spirit of the season.

These variations can help turn your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies into a new family favorite. If you’re inspired by other delightful recipes, don’t forget to explore options like Pistachio Cream Cookies or Browned Butter Cookies for additional holiday treats!

Storage Tips for Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, keeping them fresh and delightful for holiday snacking.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate cookies in an airtight container for up to 10 days, maintaining their crunchiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Reheating: To revive cookies, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-8 minutes, bringing back that fresh-baked taste for your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies.

Expert Tips for Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies

Dough Consistency: Ensure butter is softened but not melted; this keeps your dough crumbly yet cohesive. If it feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water.
Chill Time Importance: Don’t skip chilling the dough, as it firms up and helps maintain shape during baking. Even an extra 10 minutes can make a difference!
Jam Balance: Avoid overloading on jam to prevent sogginess. Use just enough to create a colorful top without flooding the cookie.
Cutting Shapes: Flour your cutters before use to ensure they glide smoothly through the dough, maintaining sharp edges and fun shapes for your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies.
Baking Watch: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be golden at the edges but pale in the center; this means they’re perfectly baked.

Make Ahead Options

These Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy festive flavors even on the busiest days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by rolling it into a disk, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerating it. If you’d like to go further, you can cut the cookies out and place them on a baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 3 days prior to baking. To maintain the delightful texture, make sure they’re well-chilled before baking—this helps them hold their shape! When you’re ready to bake, simply apply the jam and bake as directed, letting the aromas fill your home with warmth and cheer.

What to Serve with Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies

Indulging in a batch of these festive cookies creates the perfect opportunity to build an inviting holiday spread, filled with warmth and cheer.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: The rich, velvety texture of hot chocolate adds a deliciously cozy element that complements the cookies wonderfully.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider intensifies the holiday spirit and enhances the cookies’ aromatic flavors. It’s the ultimate festive drink!
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream brings a creamy contrast to the crunchy texture of the cookies, creating a delightful dessert experience.
Cinnamon Sugar Pecans: The crunchy sweetness of cinnamon sugar pecans echoes the nuts in the cookies while offering a fun textural contrast that’s hard to resist.
Peppermint Bark: The crisp, cool flavors of peppermint bark provide a refreshing balance to the cookies’ sweetness, making for a perfect holiday treat duo.
Fruity Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses paired with fresh fruits like pear or apple enhances the sweet and spiced notes of the cookies beautifully.
Decadent Chocolate Fondue: For a fun and interactive dessert option, pair the cookies with a warm chocolate fondue for dipping, creating a sweet dessert experience that delights.
Raspberry Tea: A soothing cup of raspberry tea perfectly balances the cookies’ sweetness, creating a flavorful companion that’s both cozy and uplifting.

Elevate your cookie experience by enjoying these pairings, each adding its unique twist while embracing the festive spirit of your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies!

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Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right jam for topping my cookies?
Absolutely! Selecting a quality jam can truly elevate your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies. Look for fruit jams without added preservatives, as they tend to taste fresher. Raspberry jam works beautifully due to its bright flavor and vibrant color. Alternatively, sugar plum jam is a fitting choice if you can find it! Feel free to experiment with other variations such as apricot or orange marmalade for distinct flavor profiles, but ensure that the jam complements the spices in the cookies.

What is the best way to store my Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This keeps them delightful and chewy. If you find yourself needing to save them longer, consider refrigerating them in an airtight container for up to 10 days. They can also be frozen before baking; simply wrap the unbaked cookie dough tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Very! You can easily adapt the recipe by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure you also check the labels on your other ingredients, like baking powder or any included nuts, to avoid cross-contamination. Many brands offer excellent gluten-free options that will work beautifully, allowing everyone to enjoy these festive delights.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too crumbly?
If your dough feels too crumbly, don’t worry! This can happen if the butter wasn’t softened enough or if there wasn’t enough moisture. Try adding a teaspoon of cold water to bind the dough. Additionally, ensure that you cream the butter and sugar thoroughly before adding the dry ingredients. If your dough still feels too dry, let it chill in the fridge for a few minutes, which might make it easier to bring together.

How can I prevent the jam from making the cookies soggy?
To keep your cookies from becoming soggy, apply the jam with a light hand. Use a small paintbrush to spread a thin layer evenly on top. Avoid overloading your cookies with jam, as it can seep into the dough while baking. A little jam goes a long way in enhancing the flavor and maintaining the delightful crunch of your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies!

What are the best nuts to substitute if I have allergies?
If you or someone you’re baking for has nut allergies, you can easily replace the pecans in this recipe with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds. These not only add an appealing crunch but are also nutrient-rich. Just chop them finely as you would with nuts to maintain a similar texture in your delightful cookies!