Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season, this Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe is just what you need! These cookies have a lovely combination of flavors and textures, making them a perfect addition to your festive gatherings. They are easy to whip up, and your family will surely love them—especially as they fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma.

What I adore most about these cookies is how they bring everyone together. They’re not only great for holiday parties but also make wonderful gifts for neighbors and friends. Plus, they’re perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these cookies ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the sweet and fruity flavors, making them a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the holiday season.
• Wholesome ingredients: These cookies use simple ingredients that are easy to find in your pantry.
• Versatile treats: Perfect for any occasion—from cozy nights at home to festive celebrations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This recipe uses delicious fruit and nuts that come together beautifully in cookie form. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 Additions

• 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 parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your mix-ins or substitutions:

• Add some spice: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra festive flavor.
• Change the nuts: Swap pecans with walnuts or even almonds for a different crunch.
• Use dried fruits: Replace the candied fruits with dried cranberries or apricots for a healthier twist.
• Go chocolatey: Toss in some chocolate chips if you want to satisfy your sweet tooth even more!

How to Make Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it helps incorporate air into the batter, giving your cookies a nice texture.

Step 2: Add Egg and Essences

Next, beat in the egg along with vanilla, almond, and lemon essences. Each essence adds its unique flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste of your cookies. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together plain flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this mixture to your creamed butter and sugar mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until there are no dry spots left.

Step 4: Fold in Fruits and Nuts

Now it’s time to add all that delicious fruit and nuts. Gently fold in the chopped candied pineapple, red cherries, green cherries, and pecans. This step ensures every cookie has a bit of fruity goodness!

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto a lined baking sheet. Make sure to give them space as they will spread slightly while baking. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until they are golden brown around the edges.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy!

Once baked, let them cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allowing them to cool properly helps set their shape. Enjoy these delightful Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies fresh out of the oven or store them in an airtight container for later!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

Baking these delightful fruitcake cookies can be a joy, and with a few handy tips, you’ll make them even more scrumptious!

• Use room temperature butter: This helps to create a creamy mixture when combined with sugar, leading to softer cookies that melt in your mouth.

• Chop fruits evenly: Ensure the candied pineapple and cherries are chopped into uniform pieces. This promotes even distribution throughout the dough, giving each bite a balanced flavor.

• Don’t overmix your dough: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies; we want them soft and chewy!

• Allow cooling on the baking sheet: Letting the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack prevents them from breaking apart.

• Store properly: Keep your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week—if they last that long!

How to Serve Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

Serving these vibrant fruitcake cookies is all about presentation and pairing them with delightful accompaniments. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings or as sweet gifts for loved ones.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a lovely visual appeal and enhances the festive spirit of these cookies.

• Chopped nuts: A few additional chopped pecans scattered on top can elevate both flavor and texture, offering a delightful crunch.

Side Dishes

• Warm spiced apple cider: This comforting beverage complements the fruity flavors of the cookies perfectly, creating a cozy holiday vibe.

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside your warm cookies makes for an indulgent treat that contrasts beautifully with their chewy texture.

• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad packed with seasonal fruits like oranges and pomegranates provides a bright, tangy contrast that balances the sweetness of the cookies.

• Coffee or tea: Offering a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs wonderfully with these cookies, making for a delightful afternoon treat during the festive season.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies will surely become a cherished favorite at your holiday celebrations! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to whip up a batch ahead of time for the busy holiday season. Their delightful flavors only get better as they sit, making them an ideal treat to have on hand for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.
• For longer freshness, consider layering parchment paper between cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• To enjoy your cookies warm, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave each cookie for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I make Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe without nuts?

Absolutely! You can easily omit the pecans or replace them with another nut or seed that you prefer. Just ensure any substitutes fit your taste preferences.

How long do Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies last?

These cookies can last up to one week when stored properly in an airtight container. For longer preservation, freezing is recommended.

What can I use instead of candied fruit?

If you’re not a fan of candied fruit, feel free to use dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. Just chop them into smaller pieces for even distribution.

Can I add spices to my Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe?

Certainly! Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile of your cookies. Just a pinch will do!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe brings warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations. They are not only easy to make but also create wonderful memories filled with laughter and love as you share them with family and friends. Enjoy every bite and happy baking—I’d love to hear how yours turn out!