Name: Festive Fruitcake Cookies Recipe You'll Love Baking This Season
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (can substitute with brown sugar); 1 large Egg; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (can substitute with vanilla essence); 1 teaspoon Almond Extract (optional); 1 teaspoon Lemon Extract (can omit); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda (ensure it’s fresh); 1 cup Candied Fruit (mixed) (chopped into ¼-inch pieces); 1 cup Pecans (or nuts of choice)

As I sift through the holiday decorations, I can already smell the spices wafting through my kitchen, inviting the festive spirit to dance around me. This year, I’m embracing the essence of the season with my Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe. These delightful cookies blend all the classic flavors of traditional fruitcake into bite-sized treats, making them perfect for any holiday gathering. Not only are they quick to whip up, but they also make for an irresistible make-ahead option; the flavors magically deepen over a couple of days, enhancing your festive celebrations even further. So, who’s ready to transform a timeless holiday favorite into the most beloved cookie on the block?

Why Are These Cookies a Must-Bake?

Festive Flavor Explosion: These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies pack all the iconic spices and dried fruits of traditional fruitcake in a fun, bite-sized form.

Easy to Make: No complicated steps here! This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned chefs.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare them ahead of time, and watch the flavors meld beautifully in just a couple of days, just like with Chewy Ingredient Cookies!

Versatile Variations: Want to switch it up? Feel free to experiment with various extracts and nuts to customize them to your taste.

Crowd Pleaser: These cookies are sure to impress your holiday guests, becoming a festive favorite at any gathering. So grab your apron, and let’s make some holiday magic happen!

Fruitcake Cookies Recipe Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

Butter – Creates a rich texture; use softened unsalted for proper creaming.
Sugar – Sweetens the cookies; can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Egg – Binds the ingredients together and provides moisture.
Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth; can substitute with vanilla essence if preferred.
Almond Extract – Enhances flavor profile; optional almond-flavored essence can be used.
Lemon Extract – Brightens the fruitcake flavor; can omit for a more traditional taste.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; no gluten-free substitutes mentioned.
Salt – Balances sweetness; an essential ingredient for flavor.
Baking Soda – Leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for proper rise.

For the Festive Add-Ins

Candied Fruit (mixed) – Adds sweetness and color; chop into ¼-inch pieces for even distribution.
Pecans (or nuts of choice) – Provides crunch and flavor; can replace with walnuts or omitted for nut-free option.

These ingredients make up the delightful Fruitcake Cookies recipe that is sure to spread joy and warmth this holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). While the oven warms up, line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. Preparation is key for these Fruitcake Cookies, so ensure everything is ready to make the mixing process seamless and enjoyable.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar, then cream them together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. Beat the mixture until it becomes light, fluffy, and pale—this should take about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial, as it creates a beautiful texture for your cookies.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Next, crack in one large egg and pour in the vanilla, almond, and lemon extracts. Beat these additions into the creamed butter and sugar mixture until fully combined. The blend should be smooth and silky, working to free the essence of the festive flavors that will make this Fruitcake Cookies recipe truly special.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to combine. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just incorporated. Be cautious not to overmix; you want a tender cookie that maintains its delightful crumbly nature.

Step 5: Fold in Candied Fruit and Nuts
With the dough now ready, gently fold in the chopped candied fruit and pecans (or your choice of nuts). Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough, as this ensures that every bite of your Fruitcake Cookies boasts a festive flavor explosion. The vibrant colors of the candied fruit should shine through!

Step 6: Portion the Dough
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared cookie sheet, leaving about 3-4 inches between each mound. The spaces allow for some spreading while baking, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies. You should see colorful flecks of candied fruit peeking out from the dough.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookie sheet in your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they are done once the edges turn a light golden brown, while the centers may still appear slightly soft. The festive aroma will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
After baking, remove the cookie sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps them set up perfectly. Then, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing their delightful texture to develop further as they cool.

Storage Tips for Fruitcake Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your fruitcake cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh and ready for snacking!
Fridge: If you want them to last longer, refrigerate the cookies for up to 3 weeks in an airtight container. This helps maintain their flavor and texture.
Freezer: For optimal long-term storage, freeze the fruitcake cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, let the cookies thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to restore their delightful freshness.

What to Serve with Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies?

The cozy aroma of these festive treats will fill your kitchen, setting the stage for a delightful holiday feast.

Cocoa or Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy, the warmth of cocoa rounds out the cookie experience, perfect for chilly winter days.
Spiced Apple Cider: This aromatic drink adds a fragrant warmth, enhancing the spices in your cookies while bringing a festive cheer.
Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The smooth, cold ice cream beautifully contrasts the chewy texture of the cookies, creating a delightful blend of temperatures.
Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses complements the sweetness of the cookies; think brie or gouda for a sophisticated touch.
Mince Pie: Keep the holiday spirit alive with this classic dessert; its spicy flavors echo those of the fruitcake cookies, creating a harmonious feast.
Candied Orange Slices: These add a refreshing brightness that offsets the rich flavors in the cookies, creating a lovely palate balance.

Whatever your choice, pairing these Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies with delightful companions will surely elevate your festive gatherings.

Expert Tips for Fruitcake Cookies

Prevent Clumping: Dust your chopped candied fruit with a tablespoon of flour before mixing it into the dough. This helps keep them evenly distributed in your fruitcake cookies.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the cookies; they should be taken out when the edges are golden but the centers might still look soft. Overbaking can lead to dry cookies.
Gentle Mixing: Once you add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mix gently. Overmixing can result in tough cookies—not the crumbly texture we all love!
Storage Secrets: To maintain moisture, store your fruitcake cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread. This simple trick keeps them soft and delicious!
Make-Ahead Benefits: Prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate. The flavors deepen beautifully, and you can enjoy fresh cookies with minimal effort during busy holiday days.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients and then storing the well-wrapped dough in the refrigerator. This helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the final taste. If you’re aiming for even more convenience, you can freeze the formed cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking. When ready to enjoy, simply bake as instructed, and you’ll have freshly baked cookies that are just as delicious as the day they were made!

Fruitcake Cookies Recipe Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this recipe with a few delightful twists that will enhance the festive spirit!

Nut-Free: Substitute all nuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a flavorful, allergen-free option.
Dried Fruit Variety: Swap the mixed candied fruit for apricots or cherries for a unique, fruity punch. The chewier texture will add an interesting twist!
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cookie dough for a warm, aromatic flavor. These spices can elevate your cookies from delightful to spectacular.
Citrus Zest Boost: Incorporate a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to brighten the flavors. This will give your cookies a zesty edge that makes them truly memorable.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in some mini chocolate chips or chunks for a sweet contrast to the fruity flavors. They’re a guaranteed hit among chocolate fans.
Festive Extracts: Experiment with peppermint or maple extract for different seasonal vibes. Just a few drops can transform the flavor profile into something new and exciting.
Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flaxseed meal and adjust the butter with coconut oil for a plant-based version that still maintains a rich texture. You won’t miss a thing!

Consider pairing your cookies with a cozy cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea, and maybe some Honey Garlic Tofu on the side for an unexpected savory complement. Enjoy the holiday vibes!

Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting candied fruit?
Absolutely! When selecting candied fruit, look for pieces that are vibrant in color and free from dark spots all over, which can indicate spoilage. I recommend opting for a mix of fruits like cherries, pineapples, and citrus for a colorful and flavorful experience. Avoid any that seem overly sticky or have an off smell; freshness is key to making those Fruitcake Cookies shine!

How should I store leftover cookies?
Most definitely! To keep your fruitcake cookies moist and flavorful, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container; they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, indeed! To freeze the cookie dough, first portion it into rounded tablespoons and then place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them until solid, about 1-2 hours; this helps them keep their shape. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container and label them with the date. You can bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. It’s a great way to have fresh cookies on hand whenever you need a festive treat!

What can I do if the cookies turn out too dry?
Very good question! If your fruitcake cookies turn out too dry, it may be due to overbaking or using too much flour. To help restore moisture, you can try adding a slice of bread to the container where you’re storing them; the bread will release moisture into the cookies. In the future, remember to remove the cookies from the oven as soon as the edges are golden; the centers might still look soft but will continue cooking as they cool—this ensures a tender, chewy texture.

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes, you can definitely adapt them! If you are baking for someone with nut allergies, simply omit the pecans or nuts completely. You can even substitute them with sunflower seeds or leave them out entirely, ensuring the cookies remain a delicious festive treat that everyone can enjoy. Just double-check all other ingredients to confirm they are nut-free if needed!

Can I use different extracts for my cookies?
Very much so! Feel free to experiment with extracts to personalize your cookies. Instead of almond extract, you can use hazelnut or coconut extract for a unique flavor profile. Just keep the ratios the same, and adjust based on your personal taste. The more the merrier when it comes to enhancing those flavors in your Fruitcake Cookies!