Sugarplums

 

If you’re familiar with the Christmas classic, ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, you’ll remember these lines:

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads

But what on earth is a “sugarplum?” Simply put, it’s an old fashioned candy made very simply out of dried fruits and nuts.  If you’re looking for something fun to bring to a holiday party or a family dinner, give these a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Ingredients (Makes 24, 1 inch sugarplums)

1 cup dried apricots

1 cup dried fruit (any combination of raisins, dates, or figs)

1 cup shelled, unsalted nuts (I used almonds and walnuts)

1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom (or substitute cinnamon)

2 tablespoons honey

Dried, shredded coconut and/or course sugar crystals for rolling

Directions

Step 1) Combine all dried fruit, nuts, and cardamom in a small blender or food processer and blend until smooth.

Step 2) Drizzle in honey and combine until mixture holds together.

Step 3) Roll mixture into 1 inch balls, then roll in coconut or sugar to coat.

Step 4) Let sugarplums sit out uncovered for several hours, to firm up a bit.

Step 5) Sugarplums may be stored in an airtight container for one week, or frozen for one month.

Bonus

Are you entertaining folks on paleo diets? As long as you roll these in unsweetened coconut (no sugar crystals), sugarplums are a paleo treat!