Name: Irresistible Christmas Fruitcake Cookies You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup sugar (brown sugar is preferred); 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan option); 3 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure preferred); 1 teaspoon almond extract (or hazelnut extract); 1 teaspoon lemon extract (or orange extract); 2 cups candied fruits (chopped into 1/4 inch pieces); 1 cup pecans (or walnuts, optional)

As the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel the warmth of the holiday season washing over me. This time of year is all about sharing delightful treats that cozy up our gatherings, and these Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are just the ticket. With their perfect blend of dried fruits and warm spices, these cookies offer a festive twist on the classic fruitcake in a much more approachable form. Not only are they incredibly simple to whip up, but they also make for a brilliant make-ahead option, allowing those scrumptious flavors to deepen over time. So, are you ready to add a bit of holiday cheer to your baking this year? Let’s dive into the recipe that’s sure to bring joy to your cookie platter!

Why are these cookies so special?

Holiday Cheer: These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies bring the festive spirit alive with every bite, making them a perfect addition to your holiday cookie collection.

Customizable: Make them your own! Whether you prefer dried cranberries or want to add dark chocolate chips, every variation shines.

Make-Ahead Magic: Bake today and enjoy them days later! The flavors develop beautifully, making them ideal for busy holiday schedules.

Crowd Pleaser: They’re tender, crumbly, and bursting with flavors, sure to delight family and friends. Pair them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy gathering treat!

Looking for more delightful cookie recipes? Check out my Nutty Apricot Cookies or try some Chocolate Date Cookies for variety!

Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Ingredients

For the Base

Butter – Provides richness and moisture; unsalted is best to control salt levels.
Sugar – Sweetens the cookies while helping achieve a light texture; consider using brown sugar for added depth.
Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture; opt for a flax egg for a vegan version.
Flour – This provides structure; all-purpose flour is standard, but you can substitute with a gluten-free blend.
Salt – Enhances the sweetness; it’s an essential ingredient for balancing flavors.
Baking Soda – This leavening agent helps the cookies rise beautifully.

For the Flavor

Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor with warmth; pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best results.
Almond Extract – Adds depth to the flavor profile; for a different nutty twist, feel free to swap with hazelnut extract.
Lemon Extract – Brightens and elevates the overall taste; orange extract can also be used for a refreshing twist.

For the Festive Flair

Candied Fruits – The star of the show, contributing sweetness and that festive touch; chop them into 1/4 inch pieces for better distribution.
Pecans – Adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness; walnuts are a great substitute if desired, or omit entirely for a nut-free cookie.

Now that you have all your ingredients gathered, you’re one step closer to indulging in these delicious Christmas Fruitcake Cookies! Happy baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Fruitcake Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). While the oven warms up, grab a cookie sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This will help your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies bake perfectly and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and sugar, using a hand mixer on medium speed. Beat the mixture for about 2–3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy, turning pale yellow in color. This step is crucial for creating a tender texture in your cookies.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, crack in one egg and pour in the vanilla, almond, and lemon extracts. Mix these ingredients until they are well combined, about 1–2 minutes. The batter should have a smooth consistency, and the delightful aroma of the extracts will start to fill the kitchen, signaling that you’re on the right path!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while blending on low speed, stirring just until combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies.

Step 5: Fold in Festive Ingredients
Gently fold in the chopped candied fruits and pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Use a spatula for this step to keep your dough light and airy. This is where the holiday spirit truly comes alive, with colorful bits of fruit and crunchy nuts awaiting their turn in the oven.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Using a tablespoon, drop heaping spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the prepared cookie sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading. You’ll want to aim for a nice mound shape which will bake beautifully into festive cookies.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake the Christmas Fruitcake Cookies for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown. The centers should still look slightly soft, as they will firm up while cooling, giving them that perfect chewy texture we crave.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
After baking, allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes. This waiting time helps them set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. As they cool, the warm spices will fill your home, enticing family and friends to come enjoy these lovely treats!

Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Ready to make these Christmas Fruitcake Cookies your own? Dive into these fun and flavorful adaptations that promise to tickle your taste buds!

Nut-Free: Omit pecans entirely or replace them with sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts.
Dried Fruit Swap: Instead of candied fruits, use dried cranberries or apricots for a bright pop of color and tartness. They’ll lend a fresh twist to the classic flavors.
Spice it Up: Add a sprinkle of ground nutmeg or ginger to the batter for an extra layer of warmth and cozy flavor. These spices capture the essence of the season perfectly.
Chocolate Lovers: Swap in dark chocolate chips for a decadent contrast to the fruity notes. The rich chocolate will bring warmth to your holiday cookie platter.
Citrus Twist: Replace lemon extract with orange extract for a zesty flair. Orange adds a cheerful brightness that elevates the entire cookie experience.
Vegan Friendly: Use a flax egg instead of a regular egg, and replace butter with coconut oil for a delicious vegan alternative without sacrificing taste.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate your gluten-sensitive friends and family. Who says gluten-free can’t be festive and delicious?

As you explore these variations, let your creativity shine! You may even discover a new family favorite that rivals the classics. If you’re in the mood for other delightful treats, try my Nutty Apricot Cookies or a batch of Banana Seed Cookies for added variety. Happy baking!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Fruitcake Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain freshness and flavor.

Fridge: If you want them to last longer, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to three weeks; just be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months; thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating: For a warm treat, briefly microwave the cookies or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes to restore their delightful chewy texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients and refrigerate it in an airtight container. For the best flavor, allow the dough to rest overnight. You can also pre-chop the candied fruits and pecans up to three days ahead and store them in the fridge to ensure maximum freshness. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop and drop the chilled dough onto the cookie sheet and follow the baking instructions. From prep to plate, you’ll enjoy perfectly chewy cookies without the last-minute hustle!

Expert Tips for Christmas Fruitcake Cookies

Prevent Clumping: Coat candied fruits in a light sprinkle of flour before adding them to the dough. This helps keep them evenly distributed throughout your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies.
Watch the Bake Time: Don’t overbake your cookies! They should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out. They’ll firm up as they cool for perfect tenderness.
Mix with Care: Overmixing the dough after adding flour can create a tough cookie. Stir gently just until the ingredients are combined for that desirable crumbly texture.
Chill for Success: Let your dough rest in the fridge for 15 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and results in thicker, chewier cookies.
Storage Magic: To keep your cookies fresh and moist, store them in an airtight container with a slice of fresh bread. This will help maintain that scrumptious texture longer!

What to Serve with Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies

Indulge in these delightful cookies while enhancing your holiday gatherings with perfect pairings that elevate your festive experience.

Hot Tea: The warmth of chamomile or spiced chai balances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a cozy atmosphere for conversations.
Eggnog: This creamy, spiced holiday classic adds luxurious richness, making it the perfect partner for the crumbly texture of the cookies.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream melty goodness complements the warm flavors and adds a refreshing contrast to your cookies.

Pairing these cookies with a warm drink or a rich dessert can turn an afternoon snack into a comforting holiday treat.

Fruit Compote: A spoonful of tangy fruit compote offers a burst of freshness, balancing the sweetness from the Christmas Fruitcake Cookies beautifully.
Spiced Cider: Comforting and aromatic, warm spiced cider amplifies the nostalgic flavors of these cookies while enveloping you in seasonal cheer.
Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy Brie or tangy blue cheese can provide a satisfying contrast to the sweet cookies, perfect for a festive gathering.

Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Christmas Fruitcake Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best results, select plump candied fruits with no dark spots or hard pieces, as these indicate over-dried fruit. Fresh butter will give richness, while room-temperature eggs allow for better mixing. If using nuts, make sure they are fresh without any rancid smell.

What’s the best way to store leftover Christmas Fruitcake Cookies?
Very! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to three weeks, but remember to let them return to room temperature before enjoying to regain their original texture.

Can I freeze my Christmas Fruitcake Cookies? How?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes to restore their delightful chewyness!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
No problem at all! If your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies spread while baking, it might be due to overly warm dough or not enough chilling time. To prevent this, always chill the dough before baking for at least 15 minutes. Additionally, check the butter temperature; it should be softened but not melted.

Are Christmas Fruitcake Cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Very! To cater to those with nut allergies, simply omit the pecans or substitute them with seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for some added crunch without compromising safety. Also, ensure that your candied fruits and any extracts used are free from cross-contamination with nuts.

Can I modify the ingredients in Christmas Fruitcake Cookies for dietary needs?
Absolutely! There are plenty of substitutions available. For a vegan option, swap the egg for a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water). You can also use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Don’t hesitate to mix and match your favorite dried fruits and nuts to create a cookie that fits your dietary preferences!