Sugar Plums are a delightful no-bake holiday treat made from dried fruits, nuts, honey, and warm spices. Traditionally associated with Christmas and the famous line from The Night Before Christmas, these festive bites are packed with flavor and natural sweetness. They’re simple to prepare, require no oven time, and are perfect for gifting or sharing at holiday gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sugar Plums are not only rich in holiday tradition but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome snack or a festive treat, this recipe has you covered. Here’s why you’ll love it:

No baking required
Naturally sweetened with dried fruits and honey
Packed with wholesome ingredients
A great make-ahead dessert or snack
Perfect for gifting during the holiday season
Customizable with your favorite dried fruits and spices
Ready in under 30 minutes
Gluten-free and dairy-free

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Dried fruits (such as dates, prunes, apricots, or raisins)
Nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
Honey
Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice)
Toasted sesame seeds or shredded coconut (for coating)

directions

Combine dried fruits and nuts in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped and sticky.
Add honey and spices, then pulse again until the mixture comes together.
Scoop small portions and roll them into bite-sized balls using your hands.
Roll each ball in toasted sesame seeds or shredded coconut for a festive finish.
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow them to firm up.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 24 sugar plums.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of orange or lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan option.
Mix in a little cocoa powder for a chocolatey flavor.
Try different coatings like finely chopped pistachios or powdered freeze-dried berries.
Incorporate dried cranberries for a tart balance to the sweetness.

storage/reheating

Store sugar plums in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months.
No reheating is necessary—just let them come to room temperature before serving if frozen.

FAQs

What are sugar plums made of?

Sugar plums are made from dried fruits, nuts, honey, and spices, then rolled into balls and often coated in sesame seeds or coconut.

Are sugar plums candy?

While they sound like traditional candy, sugar plums are more like fruit-and-nut energy bites with no refined sugar.

Can I make sugar plums ahead of time?

Yes, they store very well and can be made days or even weeks in advance.

Do I need a food processor to make sugar plums?

A food processor makes the process quicker and easier, but you can chop the ingredients finely by hand if needed.

Are sugar plums healthy?

They are naturally sweetened and made with whole ingredients, making them a healthier alternative to many holiday treats.

Can I use any type of dried fruit?

Absolutely. Common options include dates, prunes, apricots, raisins, and figs. Mix and match to suit your taste.

How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands?

Dampen your hands with a little water before rolling to reduce stickiness.

Can kids help make sugar plums?

Yes, this is a kid-friendly recipe that’s great for getting little hands involved in the kitchen.

How long do sugar plums last?

They last up to 2 weeks in the fridge and 2 months in the freezer.

Do sugar plums need to be refrigerated?

Yes, refrigerating helps them keep their shape and stay fresh.

Conclusion

Sugar Plums are a festive, no-bake holiday treat that bring tradition and wholesome ingredients together in one bite. They’re quick to make, endlessly customizable, and a perfect addition to your holiday dessert table. Whether you’re gifting them or enjoying them yourself, Sugar Plums are sure to become a cherished seasonal favorite.

Sugar Plums