Name: Delicious Christmas Fruitcake Cookies for Cozy Holiday Joy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (softened); 1 cup Sugar; 1 large Egg; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 teaspoon Almond Extract; 1 teaspoon Lemon Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Candied Fruits (chopped into 1/4 inch pieces); 1 cup Chopped Pecans (or other nuts)

As the aroma of spices wafts through the air, it instantly transports me back to cozy holiday afternoons spent baking with my family. These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are a perfect blend of nostalgic flavors, featuring dried fruits and crunchy pecans that make them a delightful twist on a classic fruitcake. Unlike the traditional dense cakes, these cookies are quick to whip up and perfect for sharing—ideal for holiday exchanges or sending to friends far away. Not only do they taste even better after a couple of days, but they also bring a touch of warmth and cheer to any festive gathering. Ready to get festive in your kitchen? Let’s make some memories!

Why are these cookies a holiday must-have?

Nostalgic Flavors: With a delightful mix of dried fruits and spices, these cookies are a tasty throwback to cherished holiday traditions.
Quick and Easy: Enjoy the holiday spirit with minimal effort; they come together in no time!
Shareable Joy: Perfect for cookie exchanges or sending some love to friends and family afar.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite fruits or nuts, like substituting pecans for walnuts for a unique twist.
Flavorful Freshness: These cookies actually improve after a day or two, making them perfect for prepping in advance. Make sure to serve them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate cozy experience!

Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Ingredients

For the Batter

Butter – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened to the right consistency to avoid spreading.
Sugar – Provides sweetness and contributes to the perfect texture.
Egg – Acts as a binder, helping the cookies hold their shape.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses warmth; can substitute with vanilla essence if needed.
Almond Extract – Deepens the flavor; swap with other nut extracts for variety.
Lemon Extract – Brightens up the flavor; replace with fresh lemon zest for a fresher taste.
All-Purpose Flour – The base of the cookie, providing essential structure.
Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise for that tender crumb texture.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavors.

For the Fruit and Nuts

Candied Fruits – Provides the classic fruitcake flavor; chop to 1/4 inch pieces for even distribution.
Chopped Pecans – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; feel free to omit or switch to your favorite nuts.

These Christmas Fruitcake Cookies will bring the holiday cheer right into your kitchen, making them an essential part of your festive baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet
Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). While it’s heating, line a cookie sheet with a silicone mat or parchment paper to ensure your Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies bake evenly and lift off easily once done. This preparation sets the stage for perfect cookie creation.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and sugar, then cream them together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes. This crucial step creates a smooth batter that allows your cookies to rise beautifully and achieve that delightful texture loved by all.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Flavor Extracts
Next, crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla, almond, and lemon extracts. Mix on low to medium speed until everything is fully blended—about 1-2 minutes. The additions of these extracts will infuse your Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies with warm and inviting flavors that are perfect for the holiday season.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until fully combined. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix; you want your cookies to stay tender and buttery.

Step 5: Fold in Candied Fruits and Nuts
Gently fold in the chopped candied fruits and pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step ensures that every bite of your Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies bursts with fruity flavor and a satisfying crunch, making them even more delightful for holiday gatherings.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet
Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoons of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 3-4 inches between each scoop. This spacing allows the cookies to spread without merging, guaranteeing that each cookie maintains its unique shape during baking.

Step 7: Bake until Golden
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 20-25 minutes, or until you see the edges turning golden brown. The centers may appear slightly soft, but that’s what gives your Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies their tender texture—so trust your instincts!

Step 8: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set their shape. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This final step ensures they retain their delicious flavors and texture, making them the perfect festive treat!

What to Serve with Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies

These delightful treats are not just a stand-alone snack; they’re the perfect centerpiece to your holiday spread, evoking warmth and cheer.

Creamy Hot Cocoa: Rich and velvety, this drink pairs perfectly, complementing the cookie’s sweet spices. The chocolatey goodness adds a festive touch.
Festive Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of fresh fruits brings brightness, balancing the cookies’ richness. The crunch and juiciness elevate the flavor profile.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warming spices of chai enhance the holiday spirit, echoing the flavors in the cookies while creating a cozy atmosphere.
Gingerbread Ice Cream: Creamy and fragrant, this ice cream introduces a crisp, cool contrast to the tender cookies, making each bite a delightful surprise.
Pecan Pie Bars: Bringing a similar nutty flavor, these bars are a luxurious choice that pairs beautifully without overwhelming the palate.
Cheese Platter: Include tangy cheeses like goat or brie for a gourmet touch; the salty-sweet contrast with the Christmas Fruitcake Cookies is simply divine.
Mulled Wine: Infused with spices, this warm drink will cozy up your winter nights and add a festive flair that harmonizes with the cookies.
Shortbread Cookies: A classic addition that complements the fruit notes—simple and buttery, they make for a delightful pairing alongside your fruitcake cookies.

Expert Tips for Christmas Fruitcake Cookies

Toss with Flour: Prevent candied fruit from clumping by tossing it with a bit of flour before mixing it into the dough. This helps ensure even distribution in your cookies.
Mind the Baking Time: Avoid overbaking to maintain that tender texture. Remove cookies when the edges are golden but centers still look soft—they’ll firm up while cooling.
Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too warm, chill it for about 15 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading, resulting in perfectly shaped Christmas Fruitcake Cookies.
Storage for Freshness: Store your cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them fresh. The bread will help maintain moisture, so your cookies stay delightfully soft.
Variability Counts: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Try different dried fruits or nut combinations to find your unique flavor burst in these Christmas Fruitcake Cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during the hectic holiday season! You can mix the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking; just cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Alternatively, shape the cookies into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months—this allows you to pop them straight into the oven whenever a cookie craving strikes. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the chilled or frozen cookies straight from the fridge or freezer, adjusting the baking time slightly if frozen. This way, you’ll have warm, freshly baked Christmas Fruitcake Cookies with minimal effort!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Fruitcake Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and flavor.

Fridge: If you want to extend shelf life, these Christmas Fruitcake Cookies will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 weeks; just ensure they’re sealed tightly to prevent dryness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months—perfect for holiday prep!

Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, simply pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes, bringing back that fresh-baked taste.

Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful cookies to suit your taste!

Dried Fruit Swap: Experiment with various dried fruits like apricots, cherries, or figs for alternative flavor bursts. Each fruit brings its own unique sweetness, enhancing the cookie experience.
Nut Alternatives: If pecans aren’t your favorite, try walnuts or hazelnuts instead. Each nut offers a distinct crunch that adds to the overall texture and flavor of the cookies.
Spice Up the Flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm, spicy twist. These spices can elevate the holiday flavor profile, making every bite even more comforting.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. This allows everyone to enjoy the festive spirit without dietary concerns while maintaining texture.
Vegan Substitute: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg in place of the regular egg. These swaps will keep your cookies tasty while catering to a plant-based audience.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a fun twist, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies. It adds a decadent touch and balances the sweetness of the fruit.
Candied Ginger Addition: Toss in some finely chopped candied ginger for a zesty kick. It pairs beautifully with the dried fruits, contributing a delightful spiciness.
Fruity Icing: Finish with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice to add a sweet, tangy touch. This simple glaze can elevate the presentation of your cookies, making them festive for holiday gatherings.

These scrumptious variations are sure to create both joy and delicious as you share your creations—perhaps alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee, just like with Cookies Cream Cupcakes!

Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right candied fruits for my cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting candied fruits, look for vibrant colors and avoid any that have dark spots or are overly sticky as they may indicate age. Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can also be excellent substitutions for a more vivid flavor and texture. Chopping them into 1/4 inch pieces will ensure they distribute evenly throughout the cookie dough.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
To keep your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, place the cookies in the fridge where they can last up to 3 weeks. Just remember to seal them tightly to keep their delightful texture!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Very! To freeze your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies, first lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer the cookies to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. You can enjoy them for up to 3 months! To refresh, simply reheat in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes or in the microwave for a few seconds.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies are spreading too much, it might be due to warm dough. Chill your cookie dough in the fridge for about 15 minutes before baking; this will help firm it up and maintain the shape. Additionally, ensure your butter is softened to a proper consistency—not too soft and melty!

Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Of course! If you’re making these Christmas Fruitcake Cookies for someone with nut allergies, you can simply omit the chopped pecans. For added crunch without nuts, consider using seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds instead. Always check the labels on any candied fruits or extracts to ensure they’re allergy-safe as well.

How long do I need to wait before transferring cookies to a wire rack?
After baking, let your cookies sit on the cookie sheet for about 5 minutes. This waiting period allows them to set properly before transferring to a wire rack. Moving them too soon might cause them to fall apart, so patience is key for those perfect Christmas Fruitcake Cookies!