Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a unique twist on a holiday classic, then this Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe is just what you need! These delightful cookies blend the rich flavors of fruitcake with the fun, bite-sized nature of cookies. It’s a recipe that has been passed down through my family, and every time I bake these, I’m reminded of cozy gatherings filled with laughter and joy. Perfect for sharing with friends and family or even for your own sweet indulgence, these cookies are sure to bring smiles during the festive season.

What makes this recipe extra special is its simplicity. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Whether you’re preparing for a busy weeknight treat or planning for a holiday cookie exchange, these cookies fit right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: With minimal prep and cook time, these cookies can be ready in just 35 minutes.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the colorful fruits and nuts, making them perfect for family baking sessions.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for fresh treats throughout the holidays.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of candied fruits and nuts creates a delightful taste that captures the essence of Christmas.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, wholesome ingredients come together beautifully to create the perfect Christmas cookie experience. Here’s what you’ll need for your Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe:

For the Cookie Base

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
• 1/2 teaspoon almond essence
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon essence
• 1 1/2 cups plain flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

For the Fruity Goodness

• 1 cup chopped candied pineapple
• 1 cup chopped candied red cherries
• 1 cup chopped candied green cherries
• 1 cup roughly chopped pecans

Variations

One of the best things about this Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Swap the nuts: If you prefer walnuts or almonds, feel free to use those instead of pecans.
• Add citrus zest: A little lemon or orange zest can elevate the flavor profile and add freshness.
• Mix in chocolate chips: For a sweet surprise, toss in some dairy-free chocolate chips along with the fruits.
• Use dried fruits: If you don’t have candied fruits on hand, dried cranberries or apricots work wonderfully too!

How to Make Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream Together Butter and Sugar

Start by creaming together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it adds air into your mixture, resulting in tender cookies.

Step 2: Add Egg and Essences

Next, add in your egg along with vanilla, almond, and lemon essences. Mix until everything is well combined. The essences not only enhance the flavor but also fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together plain flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet batter while stirring gently. This ensures that your cookies won’t be tough; we want them light and airy!

Step 4: Fold in Fruits and Nuts

Now comes the fun part! Fold in the chopped candied pineapple, red cherries, green cherries, and pecans into your dough. Make sure they are evenly distributed so each cookie gets a burst of fruity goodness.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a lined baking sheet. Bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until they turn golden brown around the edges. This step allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy!

Once baked, let them cool on wire racks before indulging. The cooling process helps set their shape while keeping them soft inside—so worth it! Enjoy these delightful cookies with loved ones or as a sweet treat just for yourself.

Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

Baking these delightful cookies is a joyful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can make them even better!

• Use room temperature butter: Starting with softened butter helps incorporate air into the dough, resulting in a lighter texture that’s perfect for cookies.

• Chop the fruits evenly: Ensuring that your candied fruits are chopped to similar sizes allows for even distribution throughout the cookie dough, leading to a consistent flavor in every bite.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined prevents the cookies from becoming tough. A gentle approach keeps them soft and chewy!

• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. This not only saves time on baking day but also enhances the flavors as they meld together.

• Experiment with spices: Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can bring an extra layer of warmth to your cookies, making them even more festive!

How to Serve Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family nights. Presenting them beautifully can make your dessert table truly shine!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a lovely touch and mimics the look of fresh snow.
• Chopped nuts: Scatter some chopped pecans on top before serving for added crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: The rich, chocolatey flavor of hot cocoa pairs perfectly with the sweetness of these cookies, providing a comforting drink option.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side creates a delightful contrast in temperature and texture, enhancing your dessert experience.
• Fruit platter: Fresh fruits like orange slices and grapes can balance out the sweetness of the cookies while adding color to your dessert spread.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses can complement the sweetness of the cookies, offering guests a savory option alongside their treats.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re sure to impress family and friends with your festive baking skills! Enjoy creating and sharing these delicious Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies this holiday season!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making your holiday baking not only enjoyable but also efficient! You can prepare them in advance, allowing you to savor the festive flavors without the last-minute rush.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Enjoy stored cookies within 5-7 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5 minutes.
• Enjoy them fresh and warm, just like when they were first baked!

FAQs

Here are some common questions that may arise while making these delightful cookies.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans in the Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just chop them roughly similar to how you would with pecans for the best texture.

How long will the Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe last?

When stored properly, these cookies can last about 5-7 days at room temperature. If you choose to freeze them, they can be enjoyed for up to 3 months!

Can I make these cookies without candied fruits?

Yes! You can replace candied fruits with dried fruits like raisins or cranberries if you’re looking for a different flavor profile or want something less sugary.

What can I serve alongside my Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies?

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. You could also serve them as part of a holiday cookie platter alongside other festive treats.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe as much as I do! These cookies bring together the warmth and joy of the holiday season in every bite. They’re not just delightful treats; they’re a way to share love and cheer with friends and family. So roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and let’s create some sweet memories together!