Name: Chewy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies for a Festive Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 teaspoon lemon extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt (kosher salt preferred); 1 cup candied fruit (chopped into small pieces); 1 cup pecans (can be swapped for walnuts)

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself dreaming of the cozy aromas wafting through my kitchen, where the warmth of spices and the vibrant colors of dried fruits become a festive backdrop. If you’re looking for a fresh take on holiday treats, these Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are just the ticket. They cleverly merge the traditional flavors of classic fruitcake into delightful, bite-sized cookies that are soft, chewy, and perfect for sharing. Not only are they a breeze to make—which means less time fussing and more time enjoying the season—but they’re also fantastic for gifting, looking almost too beautiful to eat! So, whether you’re prepping for a cookie exchange or simply looking to add a touch of homemade joy to your celebrations, who can resist the allure of these festive delights? What flavor combinations do you think would make these cookies even more special?

Why Are These Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Perfect?

Deliciously Unique: These cookies take the classic flavors of fruitcake and present them in an easy, bite-sized form, providing all the warmth and nostalgia of the holidays without the lengthy process.

Holiday Cheer: Perfect for cookie exchanges or festive gatherings, they’re a crowd-pleaser that brightens any dessert table. Imagine the smiles when you present these stunning treats!

Make-Ahead Wonder: Not only do they travel well, but their flavors actually deepen over time, making them the ideal choice for preparing ahead of busy holiday schedules.

Customizable Delights: Have fun experimenting! Swap pecans for walnuts, or try different dried fruits to create your signature holiday cookie. You might love trying these alongside Chocolate Chip Cookies or Marshmallow Swirl Cookies for variety!

Effortless Baking: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies ensure you spend less time in the kitchen and more time having fun during the holiday hustle and bustle.

Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create these delicious Christmas Fruitcake Cookies!

For the Batter

Butter – Use unsalted for better control over salt levels.
Sugar – Granulated sugar is preferred; substitute with brown sugar for extra moisture if desired.
Egg – Make sure it’s at room temperature for better emulsification.
Vanilla Extract – Fresh vanilla beans can be used to elevate the flavor.
Almond Extract – Enhances the nutty depth; consider hazelnut extract for a unique twist.
Lemon Extract – For a fresh note, substitute with freshly grated lemon zest.
All-Purpose Flour – Opt for whole wheat flour for a healthier twist, understanding texture will change.
Baking Soda – Ensure it’s fresh for proper leavening.
Salt – Use kosher salt if available to balance the sweetness.

For the Mix-ins

Candied Fruit – Chop into small (1/4 inch) pieces to avoid clumping and enhance festive flavor.
Pecans – Offers a delicious crunch; can be swapped for walnuts or omitted for nut-free cookies.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). While the oven warms up, take a moment to line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring a non-stick surface that helps the Christmas Fruitcake Cookies maintain their shape and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial, as it incorporates air for a soft and tender texture in the cookies.

Step 3: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Once your butter and sugar are perfectly creamed, add in one room temperature egg along with vanilla extract, almond extract, and lemon extract. Mix on low speed until everything is just combined, as over-mixing can affect the texture of your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in the mixing bowl, stirring on low speed just until the flour is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tougher cookies.

Step 5: Fold in the Mix-ins
Gently fold in the chopped candied fruit and pecans using a spatula until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This ensures every bite of your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies has a delightful mixture of flavors and textures, making them festive and irresistible.

Step 6: Prepare to Bake
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 3-4 inches apart. This spacing allows for even spreading as they bake, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies every time.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookie sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be golden brown around the edges while the centers appear slightly soft. This perfect visual cue indicates they’re ready to come out, ensuring a chewy texture.

Step 8: Cool and Store
Once baked, remove the cookie sheet from the oven and allow the Christmas Fruitcake Cookies to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious for days.

What to Serve with Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies

Indulging in these enchanting cookies opens the door to a whole world of festive flavors and delightful pairings!

Creamy Eggnog: This classic holiday drink complements the warm spices in the cookies, creating a cozy, creamy experience. Serve it chilled for a refreshing touch.
Warm Mulled Wine: The spiced wine enhances the fruity notes of your cookies, making for a soothing, aromatic pairing. Sipping this by the fire is simply divine!
Cinnamon Sugar Roasted Nuts: These crunchy treats offer a wonderful contrast to the chewy cookies, while their sweet-spiced flavor echoes the holiday spirit.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream brings a light, airy complement to the dense flavors of the cookies. Its fluffy texture lifts the experience.
Hot Chocolate: Rich and indulgent, a cup of hot chocolate makes a perfect partner to your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies, especially on chilly winter nights.
Holiday Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses, alongside dried fruits and nuts, balances the sweetness of the cookies while adding a savory element to your festive platter.
Festive Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad can brighten your dessert spread, providing a fresh contrast to the rich, chewy cookies.
Gingerbread Latte: The spicy notes of a gingerbread latte resonate beautifully with the fruity flavors in the cookies. It’s a treat that’ll warm your hands and heart!

Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Variations

These delightful Christmas Fruitcake Cookies can easily be customized to suit your taste and dietary preferences!

Nut-Free: Omit the pecans and add extra chopped dried fruit for crunch. This makes for a safe treat free from allergens.
Swaps on Flavor: Replace lemon extract with orange extract for a citrusy twist that pairs wonderfully with warm spices. Citrus notes brighten the cookies beautifully!
Dried Fruit Medley: Use a variety of dried fruits like cranberries, cherries, or apricots. This adds bursts of color and flavor, making each bite exciting and unique.
Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen during the holiday season.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities while maintaining that chewy texture.
Chocolate Lovers: Mix in some chocolate chips or chunks to embrace a sweet, decadent twist. Imagine the rich chocolate mingling with spices and fruit!
Extravagant Toppings: Drizzle melted white chocolate over cooled cookies for a festive, elegant touch that enhances both flavor and presentation.

For more delicious cookie ideas, don’t miss trying these sweet Marshmallow Swirl Cookies or classic Chocolate Chip Cookies that are always a hit!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Fruitcake Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week for optimal freshness.

Fridge: If desired, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 weeks. Just be sure they are in a tightly sealed container to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply pop the frozen cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or thaw them overnight in the fridge before enjoying!

Expert Tips for Making Christmas Fruitcake Cookies

Prepping Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the egg and butter. This helps in achieving a well-emulsified dough, leading to perfectly soft cookies.

Toss the Fruit: To prevent the candied fruit from clumping together, toss it in a tablespoon of flour before adding it to the dough. This simple trick helps ensure an even distribution throughout your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies.

Perfect Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. Remove them when the edges are golden and the centers look just slightly soft; they will continue to firm up during cooling.

Cool Down Right: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps maintain their chewy texture, preventing them from breaking apart.

Storing Tips: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. This helps maintain moisture and keep your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies delightful for longer!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all ingredients except the candied fruit and pecans, which should be added just before baking to maintain their texture. Alternatively, you can freeze the formed cookie dough balls for up to 3 months; simply place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then store them in a freezer bag. When ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw! Just pop them in the oven from frozen and add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This way, you’ll enjoy freshly baked cookies that taste just as delightful as if made on the spot!

Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select candied fruit?
Absolutely! When selecting candied fruit for your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies, look for pieces that are vibrant in color and free from dark spots. Choose a mix that includes a variety of fruits, like cherries, pineapple, and citrus peel, for flavor and visual appeal. High-quality brands will often use real fruit rather than artificial ingredients, enhancing the cookie experience.

How should I store my Christmas Fruitcake Cookies?
Very easily! Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To keep them fresh and moist, consider adding a slice of bread to the container as it helps maintain their softness. If you want them to last longer, pop them in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.

Can I freeze Christmas Fruitcake Cookies?
Of course! To freeze the cookies, allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave them for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy a warm treat!

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Don’t fret! If you find that your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are spreading too much, it may be due to warm butter. To prevent this, chill the dough in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before baking. Additionally, ensure that you’re measuring your flour correctly (spoon it into the measuring cup rather than scooping), as too little flour can cause spreading.

Are there any allergy considerations for these cookies?
Great question! If you’re making these cookies for someone with allergies, you’ll want to be mindful of the ingredients used. To make nut-free cookies, simply omit the pecans or substitute them with seeds like sunflower seeds. For those allergic to gluten, you could try using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour, keeping in mind the texture may differ slightly.

How do I customize the flavor of my Christmas Fruitcake Cookies?
You can absolutely customize these cookies! Consider swapping out the pecans for walnuts, or try using different candied fruits or nuts based on your preferences. You can also experiment with spices—adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor and make these cookies even more festive. The more the merrier when it comes to creativity!