As I sifted through my favorite holiday recipes, the memory of my grandmother’s kitchen flooded back—filled with the warm scent of baking and a joyous laughter that danced in the air. That’s when I knew it was time to whip up a batch of my Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies. These delightful treats are a festive twist on the classic fruitcake, blending rich buttery flavors with sweet glazed fruits to create the perfect cookie for gifting or sharing at holiday gatherings. With their crisp edges and soft centers, they practically melt in your mouth and make a wonderful addition to any holiday cookie tray. Plus, they’re quick to prepare and highly adaptable, allowing you to customize with your favorite dried fruits or nuts. What festive flavor combinations are you excited to explore this season?
Why Are Fruitcake Cookies a Holiday Favorite?
Unforgettable Flavor: These Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies bring together the nostalgic flavors of a classic fruitcake in a fun and accessible cookie format. Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, even novice bakers will feel confident tackling this recipe! Perfect for Gifting: Pack them in a festive tin or share them on a decorative platter; they make ideal gifts that delight friends and family alike. Versatile Sweetness: Customize these cookies with your favorite dried fruits or try adding nuts for an extra crunch. Quick to Prepare: With minimal chilling time, you can whip up a batch in no time and satisfy those sweet cravings during the busy holiday season! For an extra festive treat, consider trying my Peppermint Swirl Cookies or Apple Cider Cookies alongside them!
Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• Butter – This provides richness and flavor; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure; substitute with coconut sugar for a less sweet option.
• Vanilla Extract – Provides aromatic flavor; you can use almond extract for a different twist.
• All-Purpose Flour – The main structural component for cookies; can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Glazed Fruits & Glazed Cherries – These add color and festive flavor; use dried fruits like apricots or cranberries if glaze is unavailable.
For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Acts as a sweet coating for the cookies; adjust sugar amount for desired glaze thickness.
• Milk or Rum – This liquid adds consistency to the glaze; water can be used as an alternative if preferred.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of room-temperature butter and 3/4 cup of powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes with a hand mixer. The color should pale slightly, indicating it’s properly aerated. Add in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until just combined, creating a rich and flavorful base for your Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies.
Step 2: Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the creamy mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Take care not to overmix; you want a soft and slightly crumbly dough that holds together without becoming tough. The mixture should form a cohesive ball, preparing you for the exciting addition of festive flavors with the glazed fruits.
Step 3: Fold in the Glazed Fruits
Gently fold in 1 cup of glazed fruits and cherries using clean hands or a spatula. This step is crucial, so treat the dough delicately to avoid overworking it. The vibrant colors of the fruits will beautifully integrate into the dough, providing the holiday spirit that makes these Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies extra special and inviting.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Lay out a large piece of plastic wrap and spoon the dough onto it. Shape the dough into two 7-inch squares, pressing gently to form uniform squares. Wrap them tightly in the plastic wrap to hold their shape. This technique not only simplifies handling but also allows the dough to chill evenly in the refrigerator to firm up before baking.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Refrigerate the wrapped dough squares for about 25 minutes, allowing them to firm up. This chilling step is essential for maintaining the cookies’ shape during baking and ensures a delightful texture. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare for the delectable baking ahead.
Step 6: Cut the Cookies
Once chilled, unwrap the dough squares and place them on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to slice the dough into 1.75-inch wide strips, and then cut each strip into 2-inch pieces. The cookies should be uniform in size to ensure they bake evenly, keeping the delightful flavor and texture consistent throughout each batch of Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Arrange the cookie pieces on the lined baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake in your preheated oven for 23-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as they should remain pale in the center. Your kitchen will soon be filled with a warm, inviting aroma, signaling that the cookies are nearly ready to be enjoyed.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
While the cookies cool on a wire rack, prepare the glaze by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk or rum until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more liquid or sugar as needed. The glaze should be pourable but still have a thick enough consistency to coat the cookies beautifully, enhancing their festive appeal.
Step 9: Glaze the Cookies
Once the cookies are slightly warm, use a pastry brush to generously coat the tops with the prepared glaze. This sweet topping adds flavor and a lovely shine to your Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies. Allow the glaze to set for about 10 minutes before transferring the cookies to an airtight container to store, preserving their delightful freshness and festive charm.
Expert Tips for Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies
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Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing, which leads to a smooth, well-blended dough.
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Mind the Mixing: Be careful not to overmix the dough; doing so can result in tough cookies instead of the intended melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Slicing Made Easy: Use a pizza cutter for quick and even slicing of the dough, ensuring consistent cookie shapes for even baking of your Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies.
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Cool Before Glazing: Allow your cookies to cool slightly before glazing them; this prevents the glaze from melting into the cookies and maintains its lovely shine.
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Store Properly: Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 5 days, or freeze unglazed cookies to enjoy later.
What to Serve with Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies
These delectable cookies are perfect for creating a festive and memorable meal experience during the holiday season.
- Festive Hot Chocolate: A rich and creamy mug of hot chocolate pairs wonderfully, accentuating the sweet flavors of the cookies. Top it with whipped cream for an extra treat!
- Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider complements the fruity notes beautifully, making each bite of the cookies even more delightful.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of brie, aged cheddar, and blue cheese adds a savory contrast to the sweet cookies, creating a balanced, indulgent spread.
- Mixed Nuts: Roasted and salted mixed nuts provide a crunchy texture that contrasts with the soft, buttery cookies, enhancing your overall snacking experience.
- Fruit Tart: A refreshing fruit tart can elevate the meal with its vibrant flavors, balancing the richness of the cookies while maintaining a holiday spirit.
- Herbal Tea: Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, offers a soothing and inviting atmosphere, perfect for cozy evenings.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve the cookies warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in your mouth for a delightful dessert moment.
Make Ahead Options
These Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you prefer, you can also freeze the unbaked cookies for up to 3 months; just be sure to layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to bake, slice the chilled dough and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from frozen. This way, you’ll enjoy soft, buttery cookies that are just as delicious as freshly made, bringing joy to your holiday gatherings without the last-minute rush!
How to Store and Freeze Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate cookies in an airtight container for up to 10 days. This helps to preserve their freshness and taste during busy holiday seasons.
Freezer: Freeze unglazed cookies layered with parchment paper for up to 3 months. Once thawed, glaze them for a fresh finish before serving.
Reheating: If desired, you can warm the cookies slightly in a microwave or oven before enjoying. This enhances their buttery flavors and brings back that melt-in-your-mouth quality!
Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies Variations
Feel free to play around with these variations and create your own delicious spins on the classic recipe!
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Dried Fruit Swap: Use different dried fruits like figs or dates for a unique flavor twist. The chewy texture will complement the buttery cookie beautifully.
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Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The contrast these nuts provide elevates both flavor and texture!
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a warm, spicy note that celebrates the season’s essence.
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Citrus Zest: Grate some orange or lemon zest into the cookie dough for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens every bite.
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Gluten-Free Friendly: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those needing dietary adjustments. Your cookies will still be wonderfully delicious!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate on top of glazed cookies for a decadent finish. The rich flavor pairs perfectly with the sweet glaze.
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Coconut Infusion: Mix in toasted coconut flakes into the dough for a tropical twist. This adds texture and a touch of sweetness that’s hard to resist!
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Layered Flavors: Try marzipan or almond paste between dough layers for a hidden treat. Imagine slicing through to find a sweet surprise nestled within!
For more scrumptious cookie ideas, consider trying my festive Fruitcake Cookies Festive or the delightful Chocolate Cranberry Cookies you won’t want to miss!
Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of butter should I use for the cookies?
Absolutely! Use unsalted butter at room temperature for optimal mixing and flavor. It enhances the richness of your Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies without adding extra saltiness.
How do I store the cookies for freshness?
To maintain their delightful texture and flavor, keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days. If you wish to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 10 days, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious.
Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Yes, you can! I often freeze unglazed cookies layered with parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To enjoy them later, simply thaw at room temperature and glaze them afterward. This keeps them looking fresh and appealing!
What if my cookie dough seems too sticky?
No worries! If your dough feels sticky, it might be due to the warmth of your hands or the butter. Try chilling the dough for an additional 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, lightly flour your hands while shaping to help manage stickiness without overworking the dough.
Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Very much so! For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. I recommend choosing one that includes xanthan gum to help with texture. Check the blend’s packaging for specifics to ensure the best results.
Are there any dietary considerations for allergens?
Absolutely! If you’re baking for someone with allergies, ensure to check labels on all ingredients. The recipe uses butter and powdered sugar, which may contain allergens. For a dairy-free option, replace butter with a dairy-free margarine and use a suitable substitute for powdered sugar. Adjustments can make this festive treat accessible to many!
Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies for Holiday Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cream the butter and sugar by beating together butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate the flour gradually, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Fold in the glazed fruits gently using clean hands or a spatula.
- Shape the dough into two 7-inch squares and wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- Chill the dough squares in the refrigerator for about 25 minutes.
- Cut the chilled dough into 1.75-inch wide strips and then into 2-inch pieces.
- Bake the cookies at 325°F (163°C) for 23-25 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar with milk or rum until smooth.
- Once cookies are warm, glaze the tops generously with the prepared glaze.
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