Sugar Plum Shortbread Stars: A Festive Cookie with Old-World Charm

Sugar Plum Shortbread Stars are the kind of cookie that feels instantly nostalgic, even the first time you bake them. Buttery, tender, and delicately sweet, these star-shaped shortbread cookies are infused with finely chopped dried plums (often called “sugar plums”) and vanilla for a flavor that feels festive without being overpowering. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a winter gathering, or simply because you love elegant homemade cookies, this recipe delivers beauty, flavor, and tradition in every bite.

Shortbread has long been cherished for its simplicity. Made with just a few pantry staples, it relies on quality ingredients and technique rather than complicated steps. By adding sugar plums and shaping the dough into stars, this classic cookie becomes something special—perfect for Christmas cookie platters, edible gifts, or cozy afternoons with tea.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn not only how to make Sugar Plum Shortbread Stars from scratch, but also how to customize them, store them, and serve them in ways that feel truly celebratory.

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Why You’ll Love Sugar Plum Shortbread Stars

These cookies are more than just pretty. They’re designed to taste as good as they look.

First, the texture: true shortbread should be tender, crumbly, and melt-in-your-mouth soft. This recipe achieves that by using a high ratio of butter to flour and keeping mixing gentle. Second, the flavor: dried plums add a subtle fruity sweetness that balances the richness of the butter without making the cookie taste sugary or heavy. Finally, the shape: stars instantly signal celebration, making these cookies feel special even before the first bite.

They’re also incredibly versatile. You can glaze them lightly, dust them with powdered sugar, or leave them plain for a classic look. However you finish them, Sugar Plum Shortbread Stars always feel thoughtful and homemade.

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Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup dried plums (prunes), finely chopped
• 1–2 tablespoons milk (if needed for dough consistency)

Optional Topping or Glaze

• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Simple vanilla glaze or sugar plum glaze

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Instructions

1. Prepare the dry ingredients
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Set aside.
2. Cream butter and sugar
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. The mixture should be pale and fluffy but not airy.
3. Add flavorings
   Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. Incorporate flour and plums
   Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed just until combined. Gently fold in the finely chopped dried plums. If the dough feels too crumbly, add 1 tablespoon of milk at a time until it holds together.
5. Chill the dough
   Shape the dough into a flat disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30–45 minutes. Chilling helps the dough hold its shape when cut.
6. Roll and cut
   Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Roll the chilled dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies.
7. Bake
   Place cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just barely golden.
8. Cool and finish
   Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze if desired.

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Tips for Perfect Shortbread Every Time

Shortbread is simple, but a few small details make a big difference. Always use softened butter—not melted—to ensure proper texture. Avoid overmixing once the flour is added, as this can make the cookies tough. Chilling the dough isn’t optional; it keeps the stars sharp and prevents spreading. Finally, bake at a slightly lower temperature than typical cookies to preserve the delicate crumb.

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Variations to Try

One of the best things about Sugar Plum Shortbread Stars is how adaptable they are.

• Citrus Twist: Add finely grated orange or lemon zest to brighten the flavor.
• Spiced Holiday Version: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for warmth.
• Chocolate-Dipped Stars: Dip cooled cookies halfway into melted dark chocolate for an elegant finish.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend designed for baking.

Each variation keeps the spirit of the cookie intact while offering something new.

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Serving Suggestions

These cookies shine on a holiday dessert table, but they’re just as lovely served simply. Pair Sugar Plum Shortbread Stars with hot tea, coffee, or warm milk. Arrange them in a decorative tin lined with parchment for gifting. You can even stack them with parchment layers and tie with ribbon for a homemade present that feels truly special.

For parties, serve them alongside other festive Christmas cookies to create contrast in shape and flavor. Their understated sweetness balances richer desserts beautifully.

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A Little History: The Magic of Sugar Plums

Despite the name, sugar plums aren’t always plums coated in sugar. Historically, the term referred to small, sweet confections often made with nuts or dried fruits. Over time, dried plums became closely associated with the name. Including them in shortbread pays homage to that old-world tradition while giving the cookie natural sweetness and depth.

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Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Sugar Plum Shortbread Stars store exceptionally well. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 2 months. You can also freeze the dough after cutting out the stars and bake them straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

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Final Thoughts

Sugar Plum Shortbread Stars are proof that simple ingredients, treated with care, can create something extraordinary. These cookies are elegant without being fussy, festive without being flashy, and delicious in a way that feels timeless. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just craving a buttery treat with a hint of fruit, this recipe deserves a place in your collection.

Once you try them, they’re bound to become a seasonal tradition—one star-shaped cookie at a time.