Name: Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup powdered sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup sugar plum jam; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe·Leave a Review

Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies are like the fairy godmother of cookies, transforming a simple gathering into a magical experience. With their buttery texture and vibrant bursts of sweet and tangy sugar plum flavor, these cookies beckon you to take a bite and savor the moment. Imagine sinking your teeth into a delicate cookie that crumbles just right, releasing a symphony of flavors that dance on your tongue. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone feel like they’ve stepped into a cozy winter wonderland.

Picture this: it’s the holiday season, snowflakes gently falling outside as laughter fills your home. You’re gathered around with friends or family, sharing stories and memories while nibbling on these delightful Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies. Each bite transports you back to childhood nostalgia—a time when everything felt simpler and sweeter. Whether it’s for a festive party, a cozy night in, or simply because you need a pick-me-up, these cookies promise an unforgettable flavor experience that will leave everyone wanting more.

Why You'll Love This Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies

This incredible Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies:

Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter for the best creamy texture and flavor; it’s the heart of any great shortbread.
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that lovely crunch on the outside of each cookie.
Powdered Sugar: A little dusting gives these cookies their melt-in-your-mouth quality—perfect for shortbread.
All-Purpose Flour: The main structure of our cookies; sifted flour ensures lightness and fluffiness.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all those sweet flavors; don’t skip out on this tiny hero!
Sugar Plum Jam: This is where the magic happens—look for high-quality fruit preserves that burst with flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract is best; it adds warmth and depth to our cookies.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; this will keep your cookies from sticking like that kid who never wants to leave the party.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about three minutes using an electric mixer—don’t skimp on this step!

Step 3: Add Flour and Salt

Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and salt until combined. Don’t be alarmed if it looks crumbly at first; that’s part of its charm! Just bring it together with your hands if needed.

Step 4: Incorporate Vanilla and Jam

Now stir in the vanilla extract followed by the sugar plum jam. You want those beautiful swirls to remain visible; they’ll create pretty patterns in each cookie.

Step 5: Shape Your Cookies

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheet about two inches apart. Flatten each cookie slightly with your fingers because we don’t want them puffing up like balloons!

Step 6: Bake & Cool

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, feel free to sprinkle them with powdered sugar or drizzle some extra jam on top for good measure! Transfer to plates and serve these delightful treats at your next gathering or enjoy them solo—it’s completely up to you!

You Must Know About Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies

This showstopping Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

To achieve the best results with Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies, start by preheating your oven while you mix the dough. Shape the cookies and chill them briefly before baking. This helps maintain their form during baking.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to customize your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Swap out sugar for a sugar alternative or incorporate dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots for a twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm again, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies

This professional-quality Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Making these cookies reminds me of the time I baked a batch for my friends’ holiday party. They devoured them so quickly that I barely got one! Their laughter and compliments made it all worthwhile.

FAQs

What are Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies?

Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies are delightful treats that blend traditional shortbread with the sweet, fruity essence of sugar plums. These cookies typically feature a buttery texture and a hint of spice, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or any festive occasion. The combination of dried fruits and a subtle sweetness creates a rich flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent. Easy to make, these cookies can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later enjoyment.

How do you make Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies?

To make Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies, start by creaming together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually mix in flour and cornstarch, then fold in finely chopped dried plums or other dried fruits. After forming the dough into logs, chill it in the refrigerator. Once firm, slice the log into rounds and bake at a moderate temperature until lightly golden. Cool completely before serving to enhance their flavor.

What can I serve with Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies?

Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies pair beautifully with various beverages. A cup of hot tea or coffee complements their buttery richness perfectly. You can also serve them alongside warm cider during holiday festivities for an extra touch of warmth. For dessert platters, consider pairing them with other baked goods like brownies or fruit tarts to create a delightful assortment that everyone will enjoy.

Can I customize Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies?

Absolutely! You can customize Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. Consider incorporating different dried fruits such as apricots or cranberries for varied flavors. You could also experiment with glazes or chocolate drizzles on top for an elegant finish. This versatility makes them a great canvas for your creative baking ideas.

Conclusion

In summary, Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies offer a unique twist on classic shortbread, infusing them with rich fruity flavors that delight the palate. Their easy preparation makes them ideal for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Whether served alongside hot beverages or enjoyed on their own, these cookies are sure to impress during any gathering. Try making your own batch of Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies to experience this festive treat firsthand!