The aroma of freshly baked Christmas Fruitcake Cookies wafts through the air, bringing a sense of warmth and nostalgia. traditional thumbprint cookies Each bite bursts with spices and sweet dried fruits, making them the perfect holiday treat for any gathering.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
- How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
- What’s the best way to decorate Christmas Fruitcake Cookies?
- 📖 Recipe Card
These delightful cookies are not just a dessert; they are a tradition, evoking memories of family gatherings and festive cheer. delicious pecan pie dessert Picture yourself enjoying these treats while sipping hot cocoa, surrounded by loved ones, as laughter fills the room.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The simplicity of this Christmas Fruitcake Cookies recipe makes it accessible for bakers of all levels
- Bursting with seasonal flavors, they offer a delightful twist on traditional fruitcake
- Their vibrant colors make them visually appealing on any cookie platter
- Perfect for gifting or simply indulging during the holidays!
I remember the first time I baked these cookies; my friends devoured them within minutes, demanding the recipe before the last crumb vanished. flavorful rosewater biscuits.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for structure; sift it to avoid clumps and ensure even mixing.
- Brown Sugar: Opt for light brown sugar for a hint of caramel flavor that complements the dried fruits well.
- Dried Fruits: A mix of cranberries, cherries, and raisins adds sweetness and color; choose your favorites for customization.
- Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth; fresh spices elevate the flavor profile dramatically.
- Unsalted Butter: Let it soften at room temperature to achieve a creamy texture in your dough.
- Eggs: One large egg works wonders to bind everything together and create that delightful chewiness.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla enhances the flavor; avoid imitation varieties for a richer taste.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent gives your cookies that perfect rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
- Chopped Nuts (optional): Pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch; toast them lightly to enhance their flavor before mixing in.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Create Your Dough Base: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. savory cranberry brie bread bowl This process should take about 3-5 minutes for optimal texture.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in one egg along with vanilla extract until fully combined. The mixture should appear smooth and fragrant at this stage.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until just incorporated—overmixing can lead to tough cookies!
Add Dried Fruits and Nuts: Gently fold in your dried fruits and chopped nuts if using. The vibrant colors will make your dough look festive!
Scoop and Bake!: Use a cookie scoop to drop rounded tablespoons onto prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft.
Once cooled, enjoy these Christmas Fruitcake Cookies with family or share them as delightful gifts—just don’t forget to save some for yourself!
You Must Know
- Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional fruitcake, packed with flavors of dried fruits and spices
- They offer a chewy texture and a burst of sweetness, making them perfect for holiday gifting or enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the dry ingredients separately before combining them with the wet ingredients. This ensures an even distribution of flavors and textures throughout your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out dried fruits with your favorites, or add nuts for crunch. A splash of orange juice can elevate flavor too! For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Orange Custard Squares recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Reheat in the microwave for 10 seconds to enjoy their warm, chewy goodness. For more inspiration, check out this Thick and Chewy Cookies recipe.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To get the best flavor from dried fruits, soak them in warm water or juice beforehand
- Avoid overbaking; they’re meant to be soft!
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup
Sharing these cookies during our family gatherings always brings back fond memories of laughter and joy around the holiday table, where everyone fights over the last cookie.
FAQ
Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
Fresh fruit contains too much moisture, potentially ruining the cookie texture.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend for delicious results.
What’s the best way to decorate Christmas Fruitcake Cookies?
Drizzle with white chocolate or sprinkle powdered sugar for a festive touch!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Christmas Fruitcake Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with these Christmas Fruitcake Cookies, a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of dried fruits and warm spices. Each cookie is a perfect blend of chewy texture and sweet, aromatic goodness, making them an ideal addition to your holiday gatherings or a thoughtful gift for loved ones. Enjoy them fresh from the oven with a cup of hot cocoa, and savor the memories they create.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar (light)
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (cranberries, cherries, raisins)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually mix in flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until just incorporated.
- Fold in dried fruits and nuts if desired.
- Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden; centers should remain soft.
- Cool before serving or gifting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
