They Danced in My Head

Who knew that sugarplums were real?? They are real. And they're stinkin' delicious. And, when you hand someone a whole bag of cookies, you can point out that they are loaded with fruit and nuts and therefore are healthful. Hey, it works for me!


Sugarplums
6 ounces slivered almonds
5 ounces prunes (dried plums, if you're convinced that prunes are only for old ladies)
5 ounces dried apricots
5 ounces dried figs
1/4 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
1/4 cup honey
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground allspice
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
In a dry pan over medium heat, toast almonds for 5 minutes. Let cool. Place dried fruit and toasted almonds in food processor. Pulse 20-25 times until fruit is in small pieces. Mix powdered sugar and spices in a bowl. Add dried fruit and honey. Mix with your hands until well blended. (I warn you people, it's sticky stuff. I wore gloves. I suggest you do the same.) Form 1/2 - 1 tsp size balls and sprinkle with additional powdered sugar.