Name: Delicious Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies for Festive Cheer
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 47 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Can be substituted with almond flour for a gluten-free version.); 1 cup unsalted butter (Adjust salt if using salted butter.); 1/2 cup powdered sugar (Provides sweetness and delicate texture.); 1/2 cup brown sugar (Adds depth of flavor.); 1 cup ground pecans (Can be swapped with walnuts or sunflower seeds.); 1/4 teaspoon salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 teaspoon cinnamon (Infuses warmth and flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon cloves (Adds seasonal flavor.); 1/4 cup jam (Raspberry or other flavors work; a light coating is best.); 2 tablespoons sparkling sugar (For festive visual appeal.)

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As I savored the unmistakable aroma of cinnamon and cloves wafting through my kitchen, I was reminded of the simple joys that come with holiday baking. These Festive Orange-Pecan Spice Shortbread Cookies are a delightful nod to tradition, crafted with a touch of seasonal magic. The comforting crunch of these cookies, with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a light sheen of jam on top, brings warmth to any holiday gathering. Not only are they quick to whip up, making them an ideal choice for busy bakers, but they’re also incredibly adaptable—feel free to swap out jams and nuts to suit your taste and dietary needs. Are you ready to fill your home with the scents of the season and create something truly special? Let’s dive into this festive baking adventure!

Why Are These Cookies So Special?

Unforgettable Flavors: The blend of cinnamon and cloves with a hint of orange captures the essence of holiday warmth in every bite.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap the jam or nuts to create unique twists; try apricot or mixed berry jams for a fun variation!
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy bakers, these cookies come together swiftly without sacrificing taste or texture.
Crowd-Pleaser: With their eye-catching design and delightful taste, these cookies are sure to impress guests at any holiday gathering. Pair them with some Chocolate Chip Cookies for a varied offering that everyone will enjoy!
Perfect for Gifting: Beautifully packaged, these cookies make a charming homemade gift that spreads festive cheer.

Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookie Ingredients

For the Dough

All-purpose flour – Provides the necessary structure for these delightful sugar plum shortbread cookies; can be substituted with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
Unsalted butter – Adds rich flavor and tenderness; if you prefer, you can use salted butter, adjusting the salt in the recipe accordingly.
Powdered sugar – Gives these cookies their sweetness and delicate texture.
Brown sugar – Brings a depth of flavor with a hint of molasses that pairs beautifully with spices.
Ground pecans – Introduces a nutty flavor and crunch; feel free to swap with walnuts or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
Salt – Essential for balancing the sweetness in the cookies.
Spices (cinnamon, cloves) – Infuse warmth and seasonal flavor, making every bite reminiscent of festive traditions.

For the Topping

Jam (raspberry or other) – Adds sweetness and a festive touch; a light coating works best to avoid sogginess.
Sparkling sugar – Sprinkles on top for a festive visual appeal and delightful crunch.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, gather your ingredients and equipment: a large mixing bowl, a whisk, measuring cups, and a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Setting the stage ensures a smooth baking experience.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, add your unsalted butter and blend it with powdered and brown sugars using a whisk or electric mixer. Mix until the mixture is light and fluffy, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes. The goal here is to create a luscious cream that will form the base of your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Next, sift in the all-purpose flour, ground pecans, salt, cinnamon, and cloves into the creamed mixture. Stir gently using a wooden spoon or spatula until combined. You’re looking for a crumbly dough texture that holds together without being sticky, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, turn out the dough and roll it to a thickness of about ½ inch. Use a rolling pin to achieve an even thickness that will ensure uniform baking. The dough should feel slightly tacky but still firm enough to hold its shape when cut.

Step 5: Cut and Arrange Cookies
Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes from the rolled dough. Place the cut cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for expansion. This arrangement helps in achieving that perfectly cooked Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies without crowding.

Step 6: Add Jam Topping
With a small brush, gently apply a light layer of your chosen jam on each cookie. This step adds sweetness and a splash of festive color. Make sure the layer is thin to prevent sogginess, allowing for a beautiful finish on your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies after baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. Keep an eye on them; you want to achieve that lovely crunchy exterior while ensuring the inside remains tender. The aroma filling your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 8: Cool on a Rack
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire cooling rack for an additional 10-15 minutes. This cooling process allows the cookies to set up perfectly, resulting in that melt-in-your-mouth texture that defines Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies.

Expert Tips for Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies

Chill the Dough: Ensure your dough is well-chilled before cutting shapes to maintain structure and prevent spreading in the oven.
Flour Dusting: Always dust your cookie cutters with flour to avoid sticking, ensuring clean edges for perfect Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies.
Jam Application: Apply a light layer of jam to each cookie; too much jam can lead to sogginess, ruining the delightful texture.
Patient Mixing: Take your time while mixing the dough; overworking can make it crumbly. Aim for a smooth, cohesive dough.
Baking Watch: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking; they can go from perfect to overdone in a blink, especially with variations in ovens.

What to Serve with Festive Orange-Pecan Spice Shortbread Cookies

Create a festive spread that complements the delightful flavors of these cookies.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The smoothness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly, offering a delightful contrast to the crunchy texture of the cookies.
Spiced Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of spiced hot chocolate enriches the cozy, comforting vibes of the season while enhancing the cookie’s flavors.
Cranberry Orange Salad: A bright and zesty salad adds freshness, balancing the sweetness of the cookies with its vibrant citrus tones.
Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses like Brie or cream cheese adds a savory note, perfectly offsetting the sweetness of the shortbread.
Mulled Wine: This warm, spiced wine brings a festive cheer, amplifying the holiday spirit and perfectly complementing your homemade treats.
Nutty Biscotti: Pairing with nutty biscotti creates a delightful texture contrast, making each bite an exploration of flavors. The crunchiness enhances the soft center of your cookies beautifully.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, is perfect for a cozy pairing, providing a refreshing finish after enjoying the treat.

Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookie Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these delightful cookies to suit your taste buds!

Nut-Free: Substitute ground pecans with sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely for a safe and tasty treat.
Flavor Adventure: Swap raspberry jam for apricot or mixed berry to bring in fresh, vibrant flavors that sing of the season.
Dried Fruits: Consider adding chopped dried cherries or cranberries. They’ll introduce a delightful chewiness and a pop of color to each bite.
Citrus Zest: Boost the flavor by incorporating grated orange or lemon zest into the dough. The citrusy aroma will elevate your cookies to new heights!
Spice Variation: Experiment with flavors by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger alongside your usual spices for an exciting twist on the classic holiday spices.
Dusting Sugar: Before serving, gently dust the cooled cookies with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and flavor.
Gifting Idea: Pack these cookies in decorative containers, adding layers of saran wrap or parchment paper between layers. They’ll make a charming homemade gift!

These variations offer something for everyone, and if you’re looking for more delightful holiday treats, be sure to check out my Lemon Raspberry Cookies or if you crave a classic, try my Chocolate Chip Cookies. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Festive Orange-Pecan Spice Shortbread Cookies are a wonderful choice for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in the holiday spirit without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as the spices meld together. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled dough, cut into shapes, and apply the jam coating before baking. For maximum freshness and quality, enjoy them within a week after baking, storing the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. These simple steps ensure that your cookies remain just as delightful, making your holiday gatherings even more enjoyable!

How to Store and Freeze Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their delightful texture.

Fridge: If you want to extend freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: Freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before rolling and cutting out your festive shapes.

Reheating: To revive baked cookies, warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes. This step will refresh their delicious crunch and melt-in-your-mouth quality.

Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for these cookies?
For these delightful cookies, all-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture and structure. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with unbleached almond flour, although this may require some adjustments in baking time.

How do I store Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their wonderful texture. For extended freshness, you can keep them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, just allow them to return to room temperature before you dive in.

Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months. To do this, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then roll and cut out your cookies as normal.

What if my dough is too crumbly?
If you’re finding that your dough is too crumbly and not holding together, consider gradually adding a teaspoon of cold water, mixing it in gently until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overmix, as that can lead to tough cookies. Always handle your dough gently for the best results!

Can I use different types of nuts or jams in this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds can be a great alternative to pecans or walnuts. Additionally, you can experiment with various jams—apricot or mixed berry make delightful substitutes to keep things interesting!

Is this recipe suitable for pets?
These cookies contain ingredients like butter and sugar, which are not suited for pets. It’s best to keep these festive treats strictly for human enjoyment to ensure the health and safety of your furry friends.