Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on traditional holiday treats, this Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe is just the ticket! These cookies combine the festive flavors of candied fruits and nuts into a cheerful batch that brings warmth to any gathering. Whether you’re planning a cookie swap or simply want something sweet to enjoy with family, these cookies are perfect for sharing joy during the holidays and beyond.

What I love about this recipe is how it captures the essence of Christmas without the fuss. The chewy texture from the fruits paired with the crunch of pecans makes each bite feel like a warm hug. Plus, they’re easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight or to bake together with little helpers in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these cookies ready to enjoy in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love helping mix and scoop, making it a fun family activity during the holidays.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These cookies store well, so you can bake them in advance for holiday gatherings or gift-giving.
• Deliciously Festive Flavor: The combination of candied fruits and nuts creates a rich taste that embodies holiday cheer.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: While they’re great for Christmas, these cookies can be enjoyed all year round!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our festive cookies! No need for anything fancy here—just good old-fashioned baking staples that come together beautifully.

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 Mix-Ins

• 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 recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add Different Nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
• Try Dried Fruits: Use dried cranberries or apricots instead of candied fruits for a healthier option.
• Include Spices: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to bring an extra layer of warmth to your cookies.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute plain flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by creaming together the softened butter and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the mixture, helping to create light and fluffy cookies. Using an electric mixer works wonders here!

Step 2: Add Egg and Essences

Next, add in your large egg along with the vanilla, almond, and lemon essences. Mix until everything is well combined. This step builds layers of flavor that will make your cookies truly special!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together plain flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients while mixing gently. This helps prevent overmixing, which can lead to tough cookies.

Step 4: Fold in Candied Fruits and Nuts

Once your dough comes together, fold in the chopped candied pineapple, cherries, and pecans. This is where all those festive flavors come into play! Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 5: Bake Your Cookies

Scoop tablespoons of dough onto lined baking sheets. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden around the edges. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 6: Cool Down and Enjoy!

Let your cookies cool on wire racks before indulging in their deliciousness. These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are perfect served warm with a glass of milk or hot cocoa! Enjoy spreading joy with every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

Baking can be a delightful experience, especially during the festive season! Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with butter and eggs at room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother dough and better texture.

• Chop fruit evenly: Keeping your candied fruits and nuts roughly the same size ensures even distribution throughout the cookies, making sure every bite is packed with flavor.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined prevents the cookies from becoming tough and ensures they stay soft and tender.

• Cool on a wire rack: Allowing your cookies to cool on a wire rack helps maintain their texture by preventing steam from making them soggy.

• Store properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months to enjoy later!

How to Serve Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

Serving these delightful cookies can be as fun as baking them! Here are some ideas to present your festive treats beautifully.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of sweetness and gives the cookies a snowy, festive look.
• Edible glitter: For an extra special touch, sprinkle some edible glitter over your cookies before serving; it adds sparkle and joy to any holiday spread.

Side Dishes

• Hot cocoa: A warm cup of hot cocoa is the perfect companion to these sweet treats, creating a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for sharing.
• Spiced apple cider: The warmth of spiced apple cider complements the flavors of the fruitcake cookies beautifully, making it an ideal pairing for holiday gatherings.
• Cheese platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese with crackers. The creaminess balances the sweetness of the cookies and provides a delightful contrast.
• Fruit salad: A fresh fruit salad brings brightness and acidity to your dessert table, enhancing the overall experience with a refreshing taste.

These tips and serving suggestions will not only enhance your Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies but also make your holiday celebrations even more memorable! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them, ensuring you have a sweet treat ready whenever the holiday cravings strike.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Store at room temperature for up to one week.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating

• For best results, allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature.
• If you’d like to warm them up, heat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
• Enjoy warm for an extra cozy experience!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make these Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies in advance?

Absolutely! These cookies are great for making ahead. Just store them properly and enjoy throughout the holiday season.

What can I substitute for candied fruit in the Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe?

You can use dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, if you prefer. Just chop them into small pieces to maintain the cookie’s texture.

How long do Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies last?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they will last for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them.

Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies! This recipe combines festive flavors with warm memories, making it truly special. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these cookies will surely bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite, and happy baking!