If you’re looking for the perfect cookie to brighten your holiday season, these Best Ever Fruitcake Cookies are exactly what you need. Combining the classic flavors of traditional fruitcake with the comforting texture of a soft, chewy cookie, this recipe is a delightful twist on a festive favorite. Vibrant candied fruits bring a pop of color, while the crunchy nuts add a satisfying contrast. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, creating homemade gifts, or simply enjoying a cozy evening at home, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around.
What makes these cookies so special is their versatility and ease of preparation. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. Their buttery richness, combined with the fruity sweetness and nutty crunch, makes them irresistible. Plus, they fill your kitchen with the warm, nostalgic aromas of the holiday season, creating the perfect atmosphere for making memories with loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at holiday baking for the first time, this recipe will quickly become a cherished tradition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Delight: These cookies capture the essence of holiday baking with colorful candied fruits and the warmth of homemade treats.
- Easy to Make: Straightforward steps make this recipe perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A perfect balance of chewy texture, buttery richness, and nutty crunch—everyone will ask for seconds!
- Versatile: Great for holiday cookie platters, gift-giving, or just enjoying with a warm beverage.
Ingredients needed:
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): Adds richness and helps create a soft, tender texture.
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cookies while providing structure.
- Eggs (2 large): Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor and aroma.
- All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): Forms the base of the dough.
- Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise slightly for a soft, chewy texture.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- Mixed Candied Fruit (2 cups): Adds bursts of color and fruity sweetness.
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts (1 cup): Provides a satisfying crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined—don’t overmix!
6. Fold in Add-Ins: Gently fold in the candied fruit and chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
7. Shape the Cookies: Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake: Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
9. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 2-3 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
Variations:
- Chocolate Lovers: Add 1/2 cup of white or dark chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
- Coconut Twist: Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
- Citrus Zest: Add grated orange or lemon zest to brighten the flavor.
- Spiced Up: Include 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice for a holiday spice twist.
Substitutes:
- Butter: Swap with margarine or plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
- Candied Fruit: Replace with dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped dried apricots.
- Nuts: Substitute with seeds (like sunflower seeds) for a nut-free version.
- Flour: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free variation.
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Dough: Scoop the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, layering with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months
These Best Ever Fruitcake Cookies are perfect for spreading holiday cheer! Make a batch ahead, enjoy them fresh, or freeze for later. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a fun variation, these cookies are guaranteed to be a festive favorite!
Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups mixed candied fruit
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the candied fruit and chopped nuts, ensuring even distribution.
- Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
