Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup dried plums, chopped
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Special equipment needed:
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs, one at a time, and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in chopped dried plums.
7. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes per batch
Temperature:
350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
Makes approximately 36 cookies
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 130
Total fat: 6g
Saturated fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 55mg
Total carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary fiber: 0.5g
Sugars: 9g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Dried plums can be substituted with raisins or dried cranberries.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a different flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure butter is softened to room temperature before creaming with sugar.
- Do not overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies.
- If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate for 30 minutes before rolling into balls.
Storage instructions:
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating instructions:
Cookies can be reheated in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes or until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange cookies on a festive platter or cookie tin for a holiday presentation.
Garnishes:
Dust with additional powdered sugar or sprinkle with edible glitter for added sparkle.
Pairings:
Serve with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of milk.
Suggested side dishes:
Sugar Plum Cookies are perfect on their own, but can also be served with fresh fruit or a cheese plate.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If cookies are spreading too much during baking, refrigerate dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- If cookies are too dry, try adding an extra egg or a tablespoon of milk to the dough.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to wash hands and surfaces thoroughly before preparing ingredients. Store cookies in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Sugar Plum Cookies are a classic holiday treat, dating back to the 1800s. The term "sugar plum" originally referred to a type of candy made from sugar and dried fruit.
Flavor profiles:
Sugar Plum Cookies are sweet and buttery, with a hint of tartness from the dried plums.
Serving suggestions:
Serve Sugar Plum Cookies as a festive dessert or snack during the holiday season.
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