The scent of freshly zested orange filled my kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly winter evening. As the holidays approach, there’s nothing quite like whipping up a batch of Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies to elevate the festive spirit. These delightful cookies, infused with orange zest and crunchy pecans, offer a cozy twist on traditional treats, making them perfect for cheerful gatherings. With their crispy edges and soft centers, topped with a hint of jam and a sprinkle of sugar, these cookies are not only a joy to make but also a stunning addition to any dessert table. Plus, they come together in under an hour! Who wouldn’t want to indulge in a little homemade magic during this special time of year? Ready to dive into this easy and delicious recipe? Let’s get baking!

Why Are Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies Special?

Holiday magic comes alive with every bite of these charming cookies, making them the ideal treat to share with loved ones this season. Bursting with flavor, the fusion of orange zest and crunchy pecans elevates these cookies beyond the ordinary. Quick and easy to prepare, you can whip up a batch in under an hour, perfect for spontaneous holiday gatherings. Versatile toppings add a personal touch, whether you opt for sweet jam or a sprinkle of chocolate chips. Don’t forget, they are completely vegetarian and a fabulous alternative to store-bought options for those seeking a homemade touch. Enjoy the warm aroma as they bake—your kitchen will feel like a festive wonderland!

Ingredients
• Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; no substitutions needed for this classic flavor.
Brown Sugar – Enhances moisture and rich flavor; can be swapped with additional granulated sugar if you’re in a pinch.
Unsalted Butter – Essential for richness and texture; margarine can substitute, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
Pecans (chopped) – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; can swap with any preferred nuts, or omit for nut-free recipes.
Egg Yolk – Imparts richness and helps bind the ingredients; for vegan options, use a flax egg (1Tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 Tbsp water).
Cinnamon, Cloves – Provide warm spices perfect for holiday baking; no substitutions are noted here.
Orange Zest – Offers a burst of citrus aroma and flavor; lemon zest can be a wonderful alternative for a different zing.

For the Topping
Jam (for topping) – Adds both sweetness and visual appeal; feel free to substitute with your favorite fruit preserve like plum, raspberry, or strawberry for a unique twist.

Enjoy making your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies, perfect for spreading holiday cheer!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies 🍪✨

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 325ºF (165°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper, creating a non-stick surface for your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies. This step is essential to ensure your cookies bake evenly and can be easily transferred after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of cloves, and 1 cup of chopped pecans. Add in 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of brown sugar, stirring until well mixed. The fragrant spices and nuts will add a warm, inviting aroma to your mixture, setting the festive mood for your cookie-making adventure.

Step 3: Incorporate the Butter
Cut 1 cup of unsalted butter into the dry mixture using a pastry blender or your fingers until it resembles fine crumbs. This should take about 3-5 minutes. The butter will melt into the dry ingredients, creating that rich and crumbly texture essential for Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies. If you notice it’s too dry, don’t worry; it will come together in the next steps.

Step 4: Form the Dough
Add the egg yolk and the zest of one orange to the crumbly mixture. Gently knead the dough for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth and cohesive. Flatten it into a disk and wrap it in plastic wrap. Let it rest for 10 minutes at room temperature; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Roll and Cut
On a floured surface, roll the dough to a ½-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create your desired shapes. As you cut, you’ll see the bright orange flecks from the zest alongside the crunchy pecans—this is your cue that these Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies will burst with flavor!

Step 6: Arrange for Baking
Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart. This space will allow your cookies to spread comfortably as they bake. The cookies should maintain their shape, creating a lovely presentation for your holiday gatherings.

Step 7: Add the Jam
Take your favorite jam and spread a light layer over the center of each cookie, avoiding the edges to ensure they don’t overflow during baking. A little jam goes a long way, adding a sweet and colorful topping to your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies.

Step 8: Bake to Perfectness
Slide the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should turn lightly golden-brown when they’re done. As they bake, you’ll be enchanted by the warm, sweet aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 9: Cool and Sugar
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and immediately sprinkle them with a little granulated sugar for extra sparkle. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time helps them firm up without losing their delicate texture.

Step 10: Serve and Share
Once cooled completely, your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies are ready to be served! Arrange them on a festive platter, perhaps alongside a warm drink, and watch as smiles spread across your loved one’s faces. Enjoy the delightful crunch and soft center, complemented by the flavorful topping.

Expert Tips for Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies

Even Mixing: Use a pastry blender to ensure the butter is evenly mixed with dry ingredients. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crumbly texture in your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies.
Jam Serving Size: Avoid overloading the cookies with jam. A light layer enhances flavor without making them soggy.
Dough Consistency: If your dough feels too crumbly, don’t hesitate to knead a bit longer or add a touch of milk for better binding.
Watch for Browning: Baking times may vary slightly depending on cookie thickness, so keep an eye on those edges turning golden to prevent overbaking.
Pecan Alternatives: If you’re allergic to nuts, feel free to omit the pecans altogether or swap them for seeds like sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts!

Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies Variations

Feel free to enhance your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies with these delightful twists, each bringing its own unique flair to your holiday baking!

Chocolate Chip Delight: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet surprise in every bite. The rich chocolate complements the orange beautifully, creating a blissful harmony of flavors.
Nut-Free Option: Omit the pecans altogether or substitute with seeds, like sunflower seeds, for a delightful crunch without the nuts. This keeps your cookies inclusive for everyone at your gathering.
Vegan Transformation: Swap the egg yolk for a flax egg (1 Tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 Tbsp water) to make these cookies vegan. They will still be delectably rich and festive!
Citrus Twist: Substitute orange zest with lemon or lime for a refreshing variation. The brightness of citrus gives these cookies a zesty punch that’s perfect for ringing in the New Year.
Holiday Spice Increase: For more warmth, add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dough. This enhances the cozy, festive flavors that everyone loves during the holidays.
Fruity Topping Change: Experiment with different jams or fruit preserves like raspberry or apricot to top your cookies. Every variety offers a unique taste that makes these cookies feel like a special gift!
Coconut Flair: Mix in some shredded coconut to the dough for added texture and flavor, creating a tropical touch to your holiday cookie platter. It’s like taking a mini vacay in flavor!
Sugar Coating Variety: Try rolling the edges of the cookies in colored sugar before baking for a fun and festive sparkle. This adds a sweetness and a beautiful, cheerful presentation!

Explore these variations and let your creative spirit shine as you bake. For more delectable treats, be sure to check out my recipe for Chocolate Oat Cookies or the delightful Brown Sugar Chai for more holiday cheer! Happy baking!

How to Store and Freeze Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, these cookies can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Make sure they’re in a well-sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating: To bring back that fresh-baked taste, warm frozen cookies in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds before serving; they’ll be soft and irresistible again!

What to Serve with Festive Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies

Indulging in the sweet, buttery delight of freshly baked cookies opens the door to an array of flavors and experiences to complement your festive moments.

Hot Cocoa: A rich and creamy mug of hot cocoa perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a warm and cozy treat for chilly evenings.
Spiced Cider: This aromatic beverage, with hints of cinnamon and clove, adds a burst of warmth to each cookie bite, enhancing the festive spirit around the table.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream paired with these cookies provides a delightful contrast of temperatures, making every bite an indulgent experience.
Cozy Tea: A steaming cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, offers a soothing beverage that pairs wonderfully with the zesty notes of orange in the cookies.
Fruit Compote: A spoonful of warm fruit compote, such as raspberry or apple, brings a vibrant sweetness that complements the cookie’s texture and flavors beautifully.
Bubbly Prosecco: For a festive toast, pair the cookies with bubbly Prosecco. The light effervescence and subtle fruitiness enhance the joyful atmosphere of any holiday gathering.
Cheese Platter: Consider serving the cookies alongside a selection of soft cheeses and nuts for a unique sweet and savory combination that will surprise your guests.

Bring a touch of magic to your holiday gatherings by pairing these Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies with some delightful beverages and snacks!

Make Ahead Options

These Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies are a delightful choice for meal prep aficionados! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the dry ingredients and cutting in the butter, then adding the egg yolk and orange zest just before baking. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it to maintain its freshness and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out the cold dough, cut it into desired shapes, and top with jam before popping them in the oven. This method ensures you’ll enjoy fresh cookies with just the right amount of crispiness—perfect for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings!

Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of oranges are best for zesting?
Absolutely! When choosing oranges for zesting, I recommend using organic oranges, as they’re less likely to have wax or pesticides on their skins. Navel oranges and Valencia oranges are both great options due to their rich flavor and aroma. Just make sure they’re firm and vibrant in color for the best zest.

How should I store my Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies?
To keep your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If they start to soften, placing a slice of bread in the container can help maintain their delightful crispness. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks or freeze them!

Can I freeze Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies, place them in an airtight container or zip-top freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, then warm them in the oven for a few minutes to regain that fresh-baked texture.

What if my cookie dough is too crumbly?
If your dough feels too crumbly, don’t worry! This can happen sometimes, especially when the butter isn’t fully incorporated. Simply knead the dough a bit longer; if it remains dry, you can add a teaspoon of milk or a little more butter. This should bring everything together nicely, making it easier to roll and cut.

Are these cookies safe for dogs?
While Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies are delicious for us, the ingredients like butter and sugar aren’t ideal for dogs. It’s best to avoid giving them these cookies, especially considering the jam topping may contain additional sugars and preservatives that aren’t good for pets. Always stick to pet-safe treats for your furry friends!

What if I don’t have pecans?
No need to fret if you don’t have pecans on hand! These cookies are quite versatile; you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. Just keep in mind that each nut adds its own unique flavor; I often enjoy experimenting with different options depending on what I have in my pantry!