Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

Name: Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cherries, apricots); 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Delight in the festive spirit with these Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies, a perfect blend of fruity flavors and spices, ideal for holiday gatherings.

Created by

Diana Brooks

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:00:55.536Z

These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional fruitcake, combining the joys of cookies with the festive flavors of dried fruits and nuts. Perfect for sharing during the holiday season!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A delightful mix of fruits and nuts that brings holiday cheer
Soft and chewy texture that's irresistible
Quick and easy recipe that fits perfectly into your holiday baking schedule

      

The Joy of Holiday Baking

Baking during the holiday season is a cherished tradition for many families. It’s a time to gather in the kitchen, share stories, and create delicious treats that will be enjoyed by loved ones. The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia that enhances the festive spirit. These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies perfectly embody that spirit, offering a delightful combination of flavors that evoke the joy of the season.

These cookies are not just about taste; they also provide an opportunity to connect with family and friends. Whether you’re baking solo or with your kids, this easy recipe allows everyone to participate in the delicious fun. Plus, they make for a wonderful gift or treat to share at holiday gatherings, spreading joy and festive cheer wherever they go.

Perfect for Any Occasion

While these Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are ideal for Christmas, their delightful flavors make them suitable for any festive occasion throughout the year. Whether it’s a holiday party, a family reunion, or a cozy afternoon tea, these cookies add a touch of sweetness and cheer to any gathering. The mix of dried fruits and nuts offers a healthy twist, making them a guilt-free indulgence that won't disappoint.

You can also customize these cookies with your favorite dried fruits and nuts, tailoring them to your personal preferences. This versatility not only enhances their appeal but also allows you to explore various flavor combinations that can delight your taste buds and those of your guests.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cherries, apricots)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix all the ingredients well for a delicious batch of cookies.

Instructions

Prep the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.

Add Fruits and Nuts

Fold in the mixed dried fruits and nuts until evenly distributed.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto a lined baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden. Allow to cool before serving.

Enjoy your festive cookies with a glass of milk or hot cocoa!

Storing Your Cookies

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and flavor of your Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies. To keep them soft and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can last up to a week, but we doubt they'll last that long with how delicious they are!

For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container with layers of parchment paper in between. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for a delightful treat that tastes just as fresh as the day you baked them.

Baking Tips for Success

For the best results, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature before creaming it with the brown sugar. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your cookies. Avoid overmixing once you add the dry ingredients; mix until just combined for a soft and chewy cookie.

Feel free to experiment with the spices in your cookie dough. Adding a pinch of ginger or cloves can elevate the flavor profile, giving your cookies a unique twist. Additionally, if you prefer a more intense fruit flavor, consider soaking your dried fruits in warm water or rum for a few minutes before mixing them in.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?

Fresh fruit is not recommended as it contains too much moisture and can affect the texture of the cookies.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

→ What other nuts can I use?

Feel free to substitute walnuts or pecans with almonds or hazelnuts based on your preference.