The scent of holiday spices and sweet fruits wafting through the kitchen can turn anyone into a festive cheerleader, and that’s exactly what these Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies offer! Inspired by the traditional fruitcake, these delightful cookies blend dried fruits with rich, buttery goodness. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up, but they also cater to a variety of taste buds—making them a stand-out treat at any holiday gathering. Plus, their shipping-friendly format means you can share them with loved ones who are far away, spreading joy with every bite. Curious to discover how to make these adaptable festive delights? Let’s dive in!
Why are These Cookies a Holiday Must?
Delightful flavors: With a perfect blend of dried fruits and warm spices, each bite delivers a burst of holiday cheer.
Easy to make: Even novice bakers will shine with this straightforward recipe that requires minimal effort.
Customizable: Tailor the ingredients to suit your taste—swap fruits, try different extracts, or even go nut-free!
Versatile treats: These cookies are not just a holiday favorite; they make excellent gifts in festive baskets or packaged to share with distant family.
Freshness guaranteed: You'll find them easy to store, ensuring they stay moist and delicious for weeks—perfect for holiday indulgence!
Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Ingredients
• Curious about what makes these cookies so festive? Here’s everything you need!
For the Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; ensure butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps achieve a light, fluffy texture when creamed with butter.
- Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; can be substituted with a mashed banana for a vegan option.
- Vanilla Extract – Offers warmth and depth of flavor; if unavailable, use equal parts of other extracts.
- Almond Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; can substitute with hazelnut or omit if preferred.
- Lemon Extract – Brightens the cookie and complements the fruits; fresh lemon zest could also work.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; measure correctly to avoid a dense cookie. Consider gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors; do not omit.
- Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise and achieve a light texture; necessary for proper bake.
For the Sweetness
- Candied Fruits (chopped) – The main component providing sweetness and chew; chop into small (1/4 inch) pieces for even distribution.
- Pecans – Adds nutty flavor and crunch; can be replaced with walnuts or omitted for a nut-free version.
Get ready to bake your new favorite Christmas Fruitcake Cookies—each ingredient carefully selected to bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Fruitcake Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). While the oven is heating up, take a baking sheet and line it with either silicone baking mats or parchment paper to ensure your cookies don’t stick, making it easier to remove them once baked.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add room-temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream them together on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This important step provides the base for your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies, creating a lovely texture.
Step 3: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Once your butter and sugar mix is fluffy, crack in an egg, and add the vanilla, almond, and lemon extracts. Mix on low speed until everything is well combined. This adds moisture and delicious flavor to your cookie batter, making your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies even more irresistible.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to over-mix, as this could lead to dense cookies instead of the tender texture we’re aiming for.
Step 5: Add the Candied Fruits and Nuts
Now, gently fold in the chopped candied fruits and pecans into the cookie dough. Make sure the fruits are evenly distributed, giving each bite of your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies a delightful chew and delightful nutty crunch.
Step 6: Portion the Dough
Using a tablespoon, scoop out heaping portions of dough and drop them onto the prepared cookie sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 3-4 inches apart. This spacing is crucial, as the cookies will spread during baking, allowing for perfect round shapes and lovely edges.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place your cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; when the edges have turned a golden brown but the centers still look slightly soft, it’s time to take them out, ensuring a tender cookie texture.
Step 8: Cool on Wire Rack
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. After that, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the cookies firm up while keeping them moist, contributing to the melt-in-your-mouth quality of your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies.
Expert Tips for Christmas Fruitcake Cookies
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Dust Your Fruits: Coat chopped candied fruits with a tablespoon of flour before mixing to prevent clumping in your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies.
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Watch Your Bake Time: Avoid overbaking by checking for golden edges and slightly soft centers. This ensures the cookies remain tender and delightful.
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Chill the Dough: If your butter is too soft, refrigerate the dough for 15 minutes before baking to prevent unwanted spreading.
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Store with Care: Keep your cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain moisture and freshness for weeks of holiday enjoyment.
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Experiment Freely: Don’t hesitate to customize! Swap dried fruits, nuts, or extracts to create a Christmas Fruitcake Cookies version that’s uniquely yours.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Fruitcake Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and delicious.
Fridge: For extended freshness, place cookies in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 3 weeks; the cooler temperatures will help maintain their moist texture.
Freezer: Freeze cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Reheating: Simply microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm them up; they'll be just as delightful as when first baked!
Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Variations
Feel free to personalize your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies with these delightful variations that will make each batch uniquely yours!
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Nut-Free: Omit pecans altogether or replace them with crispy rice cereal for a fun crunch without the nuts. This is perfect for those with nut allergies.
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Chocolate Lover: Replace the candied fruits with chocolate chips or chunks for a rich, indulgent twist. This variation adds a luscious cocoa flavor that complements the cookie's buttery base beautifully.
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Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and spice. The aromatic notes will elevate the holiday feel, making each bite feel even cozier.
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Dried Fruit Medley: Instead of using just candied fruits, mix dried cranberries, raisins, and apricots for a chewy, tangy surprise in every cookie. The variety adds an unexpected romance to the taste profile.
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Vegan Delight: Substitute the egg with a mashed banana or a flaxseed meal mixed with water for a delightful vegan option. This adjustment keeps the cookie moist while adding a unique flavor twist.
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Different Extracts: Experiment with different extracts like maple or coconut to tailor the taste to your family's preferences. Each extract can add its own unique character, creating a fun cookie adventure!
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Zesty Additions: Add fresh lemon or orange zest for a bright, citrusy flavor that beautifully complements the sweetness of the candied fruits. It’s a refreshing takeover on traditional holiday flavors!
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Crunchy Granola: Fold in rolled oats or granola for added texture and a healthy twist. The added chewiness brings a heartiness that contrasts with the buttery base, making every bite a wholesome treat.
These variations will not only surprise your tastebuds but will also make your holiday gatherings even more special. If you love the idea of versatile cookies, be sure to check out my Matcha Cookies Soft and Eggnog Cookies Soft for more festive inspiration! Enjoy the journey of creating your perfect Christmas Fruitcake Cookies!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during the bustling holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the dough in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent browning. For even more convenience, you can also scoop the dough onto a baking sheet and freeze the unbaked cookies for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. With these make-ahead strategies, you’ll have delicious Christmas Fruitcake Cookies ready to share, ensuring you can savor the season without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies?
These delightful cookies are perfect for creating a full holiday spread that will warm hearts and fill bellies.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness pairs beautifully with the sweet spice of the cookies, offering a lovely contrast in textures.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Serve this warm drink alongside for a cozy, festive experience that enhances the cookies' fruity flavors.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheddar or creamy brie balances the sweet, chewy cookies and adds an elegant touch to your gathering.
- Homemade Eggnog: This classic holiday drink provides a rich, creamy texture that complements the cookies perfectly. It's festive and fun!
- Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: Their savory, earthy flavors create a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cookies, keeping everything balanced.
- Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: For a sweet pairing, these fresh berries offer a juicy burst that pairs delectably with the spiced cookies.
- Walnut Brownies: The fudgy richness of these brownies makes for a decadent dessert option alongside the cookies. Indulgence at its best!
- Festive Fruit Salad: A bright, refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens up the holiday table, enhancing the overall cheerfulness of your spread.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm cup can elevate your cookie experience, allowing the warm spices and flavors to shine even brighter.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Their creamy texture and slight tartness provide a lovely counterpoint to the festive sweetness of the cookies.
Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of candied fruit is best for these cookies?
Absolutely! The best candied fruits for Christmas Fruitcake Cookies include a mix of chopped cherries, pineapple, and citrus peel for that classic fruity flavor. Aim for pieces that are about 1/4 inch to ensure even distribution throughout the dough. Alternatively, you can also use dried fruits like raisins or apricots for a more natural sweetness.
How should I store Christmas Fruitcake Cookies?
Very easy! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you'd like them to last longer, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 3 weeks. For maximum freshness, you can freeze them for up to 3 months, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying!
Can I freeze the dough for Christmas Fruitcake Cookies?
The more the merrier! Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Simply scoop the dough into individual portions on parchment paper, freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. The dough will keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, let the dough thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as per the instructions—your cookies will turn out just as delicious!
What if my cookies spread too much during baking?
No worries! If your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are spreading too much, it may be due to the butter being too soft. To prevent this, I recommend refrigerating the dough for about 15 minutes before baking. Additionally, ensure you have measured your flour accurately and are using the right amount of baking soda—both are crucial for maintaining structure while baking.
Are these cookies suitable for those with nut allergies?
Absolutely! If you're baking for someone with nut allergies, you can easily omit the pecans or substitute them with pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without the risk. Moreover, just be sure to check the labels on any ingredients you use, like extracts or candied fruits, to ensure there are no hidden nuts in them.
Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Your New Holiday Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with silicone baking mats or parchment paper.
- Cream together the room-temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar for about 3-5 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add in the egg, vanilla, almond, and lemon extracts to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda, then gently fold into the wet mixture.
- Fold in the chopped candied fruits and pecans, ensuring even distribution throughout the cookie dough.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop out dough portions and drop them onto the prepared cookie sheet, spaced 3-4 inches apart.
- Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, until edges are golden brown and centers are slightly soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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