Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
Enjoy the festive flavors of the season with these delightful Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies. Perfect for sharing or indulging!
These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional fruitcake. They combine the rich flavors of dried fruits, nuts, and spices into a chewy cookie that embodies the spirit of the holidays. Perfect for cookie exchanges, gifts, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea!
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Bursting with festive flavors and textures
- Chewy and satisfying with a perfect balance of sweetness
- Great for gifting or sharing during the holiday season
The Joy of Baking for the Holidays
Baking during the holiday season is a cherished tradition for many families. The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for gathering with loved ones. These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies not only bring festive cheer but also evoke nostalgia, reminding us of the joy of sharing treats with family and friends.
Whether you're an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this cookie recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Each bite offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave your guests asking for more. Plus, the ease of preparation allows you to whip up a batch quickly, making it an ideal treat for unexpected holiday visitors.
Perfect for Gifting and Sharing
These cookies are not just delicious; they make wonderful gifts as well. Package them in festive tins or boxes decorated with ribbons for a thoughtful homemade present. Friends and family will appreciate the time and effort you put into baking these scrumptious cookies, and they are sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
In addition to gifting, these cookies are perfect for sharing at holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or potlucks. Their vibrant colors from the mixed dried fruits and the crunch of nuts make them visually appealing and a delightful addition to any dessert table. Everyone loves a homemade treat, especially one as festive as these Christmas fruitcake cookies.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cherries, apricots)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts.
Bake the Cookies
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storing Your Cookies
To keep your Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, maintaining their chewy texture and rich flavors. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider freezing the cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe container with layers of parchment paper to separate each layer, and they can last for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours. You can also warm them slightly in the oven at a low temperature for that fresh-baked feel. This way, you can savor the holiday flavors even beyond the festive season!
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to customize these cookies to suit your taste. Substitute the mixed dried fruits with your favorites—dried cranberries, figs, or even chocolate chips can add a unique twist. You can also experiment with different nuts; almonds or macadamia nuts can offer a delightful crunch and flavor variation.
For a spicier kick, consider adding more spices like ginger or allspice to the mix. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and make it your own, ensuring that every batch is a reflection of your unique culinary style.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
Fresh fruit is not recommended as it contains too much moisture and can lead to soggy cookies.
→ Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
→ What nuts work best for this recipe?
Walnuts and pecans are great choices, but you can use any nut you prefer.
→ How can I make these cookies more festive?
Consider adding a glaze of powdered sugar mixed with milk or decorating with holiday-themed sprinkles.
Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe
Enjoy the festive flavors of the season with these delightful Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies. Perfect for sharing or indulging!
Created by: Arabella Scott
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cherries, apricots)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 2g