Easy homemade sugar plums made with walnuts, dried figs, apricots, dates, and chocolate chips. These bite-sized treats are naturally sweet, lightly spiced with cinnamon, cardamom, and allspice, and perfect for holiday snacks, party treats, or gifting. Quick to make and customizable with colored sugar or powdered sugar coating.

Ingredients

1 cup walnuts
½ cup dried figs
½ cup dried apricots
½ cup dried dates
¼ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
¼ cup honey
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
⅛ teaspoon ground allspice
4 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, for rolling)
Red and green food coloring (optional)

Instructions

Process the Ingredients: In a food processor, combine walnuts, figs, apricots, dates, chocolate chips, honey, and spices. Pulse a few times, then process for 30 seconds, scraping down the sides as needed.
Form the Mixture: Continue processing for 1–2 minutes until the mixture comes together into a sticky ball.
Shape the Plums: Scoop small portions and roll them into bite-sized balls.
Color the Sugar (Optional): Divide granulated sugar between two bowls. Add 1–2 drops of red food coloring to one bowl and green to the other, stirring until evenly colored.
Coat the Plums: Roll each sugar plum in the colored sugar or dust with powdered sugar for a classic look.
Store or Serve: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bite-sized sugar plums are naturally sweet, nutty, and lightly spiced. Perfect for holiday treats, snacks, or gifting, they are made in a small batch with wholesome ingredients for a quick, festive treat.

Tips

Pulse carefully in the food processor to avoid over-processing into a paste.
Use slightly sticky dates for easier shaping.
Chill the mixture briefly if it’s too soft to roll.

Variations and Substitutions

Nuts: Substitute walnuts with almonds, pecans, or cashews.
Dried Fruit: Use raisins, cranberries, or prunes instead of figs or dates.
Sweeteners: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave for a vegan option.
Coating: Roll in finely chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or cocoa powder instead of colored sugar.

FAQs

How long do sugar plums last?
Stored in an airtight container, they stay fresh for up to 1 week at room temperature.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare them a day or two in advance. Keep them chilled for best texture.

Are these sugar plums vegan?
Yes, if you use a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup instead of honey.

Serving

Serve sugar plums as festive snacks, party treats, or a quick energy bite. They pair well with tea, coffee, or a glass of milk.

Suggestions

Make mini gift packs for holidays or special occasions.
Sprinkle with a little extra cinnamon or nutmeg before serving for added warmth.
Add a touch of orange or lemon zest to brighten the flavor.