Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat to brighten your holiday season, you’ve come to the right place! This Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe is a true gem that combines the rich flavors of candied fruits and nuts into soft, chewy cookies. They’re perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights by the fire, or simply to share with friends. As someone who loves baking during the holidays, I can assure you these cookies will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Not only do they taste amazing, but they also fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that brings back warm memories of festive celebrations. Plus, they are easy to whip up, making them a fantastic choice even on those busy weeknights when you just want something sweet to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: You can have these cookies ready in under 40 minutes!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone will love the sweet and fruity flavors in each bite.
• Perfect for sharing: These cookies make great gifts or additions to holiday cookie platters.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time, and they’ll keep well for days.
• Fun for all ages: Get the kids involved in mixing and decorating these festive treats!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Each element plays a key role in creating that wonderful flavor balance we all crave during the holidays.

For the Cookie Dough

• 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! You can mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Change up the nuts: Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different crunch.
• Try dried fruits: Swap some of the candied fruits with dried cranberries or apricots for a healthier twist.
• Add spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Make it chocolatey: Incorporate some chocolate chips for an indulgent touch!

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 helps incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in soft cookies!

Step 2: Add Egg and Extracts

Next, beat in the egg along with the vanilla, almond, and lemon essences. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly enhances their flavors, infusing every cookie with deliciousness.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Stir just until combined; over-mixing can lead to tough cookies.

Step 4: Fold in Fruits and Nuts

Now it’s time to fold in those glorious chopped candied fruits and pecans! Gently mixing them ensures every cookie has a bit of that fruity goodness without breaking down those delightful chunks.

Step 5: Bake Your Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and drop spoonfuls of dough onto a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown around the edges. Let them cool on a wire rack before enjoying.

And there you have it! Your Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are ready to be devoured! Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or shared with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

Making your holiday baking a success is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies turn out perfectly.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing your butter and egg to reach room temperature helps them blend more smoothly, creating a better texture in your cookies.

• Chop your fruits evenly: Ensuring your candied fruits are chopped uniformly means they will distribute evenly throughout the cookie dough, giving every bite a delightful burst of flavor.

• Don’t skip the chilling: If time allows, chill your dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and can enhance the flavor as they sit.

• Check your oven temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature. Using an oven thermometer ensures that you’re baking at the correct temperature, preventing overbaking or underbaking.

• Store properly for freshness: After baking, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them soft and flavorful for days!

How to Serve Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

Presenting your Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies can be just as festive as baking them! Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, these ideas will elevate your cookie experience.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and gives a beautiful snowy effect.
• Candied citrus peel: Adding a piece of candied orange or lemon peel on top makes for a lovely garnish that complements the flavors of the cookies.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: A steaming cup of hot cocoa pairs wonderfully with these cookies, creating a warm and comforting treat perfect for winter evenings.
• Chai tea: The spiced flavors of chai tea harmonize beautifully with the fruity notes in the cookies, making it a delightful pairing during holiday gatherings.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the cookies and adds a healthy element to the dessert table.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses alongside these sweet treats creates an interesting contrast of flavors that guests will love.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re set to impress your friends and family with your delicious Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time, and they store beautifully, ensuring you have festive treats on hand whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• For extra freshness, you can layer parchment paper between the cookies.

Freezing

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• These cookies can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Enjoy them fresh from the oven for that delightful just-baked taste!

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up as you prepare your Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe.

Can I substitute the nuts in the Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite nuts or seeds. Almonds or walnuts would work beautifully if you’re looking for alternatives.

How long do these cookies last after baking?

These cookies can last up to one week stored in an airtight container. They also freeze well for up to three months, making them great for holiday prep!

Can I make this Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe vegan?

Yes! To make this recipe vegan, substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter.

What other fruits can I add to these fruitcake cookies?

You can experiment with dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or raisins. Just ensure that any alternatives fit your dietary preferences!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe brings joy and sweetness to your holiday season! There’s something so heartwarming about baking cookies that fill your home with delightful aromas. Enjoy making these treats and sharing them with loved ones. Happy baking!