Sugar Plum Strawberries
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 20-24 strawberries (depending on size)
Description:
Sugar Plum Strawberries are a delightful treat that my mom always made at Christmas. These candies are not just visually appealing but also irresistibly tasty, making them a perfect alternative to cookies for Christmas pitch-ins. The combination of sweetened condensed milk, strawberry gelatin, and ground pecans gives them a unique flavor, while the red sugar coating and green almond stems add a festive touch. These treats are so popular in my family that we always end up making more than two dozen strawberries, usually yielding around 40 or so, about the size of my thumb.
Ingredients:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 3 tablespoons strawberry gelatin
- 1 1/2 cups ground pecans
- 1 1/2 cups flaked coconut
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Decoration:
- Red sugar (for rolling)
- Whole almonds (for stems, tinted green)
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 217.8
- Fat Content: 10 g
- Saturated Fat Content: 3.5 g
- Cholesterol Content: 9.1 mg
- Sodium Content: 107.6 mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 29.9 g
- Fiber Content: 1 g
- Sugar Content: 28.3 g
- Protein Content: 4 g
Instructions:
-
Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk, strawberry gelatin, ground pecans, flaked coconut, and vanilla extract. Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated, ensuring the mixture is uniform in texture and color. The gelatin and coconut will give the mix a slightly grainy, textured feel, while the pecans add a nutty flavor that complements the strawberries.
-
Shape the Strawberries:
- Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and shape them into strawberry-like forms. Aim for a size that is easy to handle, roughly the size of your thumb. The mixture should hold together well, but if it’s too sticky, you can refrigerate it for a few minutes to firm up.
-
Roll in Red Sugar:
- Pour some red sugar onto a plate or shallow dish. Roll each shaped strawberry in the red sugar until it is evenly coated. The red sugar not only adds a vibrant color but also a subtle crunch that enhances the texture of the candy.
-
Prepare Almond Stems:
- If you’re using whole almonds, you can tint them green to resemble strawberry stems. To do this, place a few drops of green food coloring in a small bowl with a little water. Add the almonds and stir gently until they are coated with the color. Let them dry on a paper towel.
-
Assemble the Strawberries:
- Once the almonds are dry, gently press them into the tops of the sugar-coated strawberries. This step not only adds a realistic touch but also helps to secure the stem in place.
-
Serve or Store:
- Arrange the finished strawberries on a serving platter. They can be enjoyed immediately or stored in an airtight container. For best results, keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. They should stay fresh for several days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for your holiday gatherings.
Tips for Perfect Sugar Plum Strawberries:
- Consistency Check: If the mixture is too sticky or soft, chill it for 10-15 minutes before shaping. This will make handling much easier.
- Color Variations: Feel free to experiment with different colored sugars or sprinkles to match your holiday theme.
- Almond Substitutes: If you don’t have almonds, you can use green-colored candy melts or small pieces of green fruit leather for the stems.
These Sugar Plum Strawberries are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Their festive appearance and delightful flavor make them a must-have at any Christmas gathering. Enjoy making and sharing these treats with your loved ones, and watch them disappear in no time!
