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; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, and chopped apricots); 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Delight in the festive flavors of the season with these Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies. Bursting with dried fruits and nuts, these cookies are a perfect treat for holiday gatherings.

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2025-12-18T13:16:30.660Z

These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies combine the traditional flavors of fruitcake in a convenient cookie form. Perfect for cookie exchanges or cozy gatherings by the fire, these treats are sure to become a holiday favorite.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Festive mix of dried fruits and nuts
Chewy texture with a hint of spice
Easy to make and share during the holidays

      

The Perfect Holiday Treat

These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are more than just a dessert; they capture the very essence of the holiday season. With their vibrant colors and rich flavors, they evoke memories of festive gatherings and joyous celebrations. Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste, thanks to the combination of dried fruits and nuts that reflect the season's bounty. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or attending a potluck, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends.

What sets these cookies apart is their unique chewy texture, which pairs beautifully with the subtle spices of cinnamon and nutmeg. These spices not only enhance the flavor but also bring warmth to your holiday table. The ease of preparation means you can whip up a batch with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: spending time with loved ones.

Tips for Baking Success

To achieve the best results with your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies, ensure your butter is at room temperature before starting. This step is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture when creaming with sugar. If you're in a hurry, you can soften butter quickly by cutting it into small pieces and letting it sit for about 10 minutes, or using the microwave for just a few seconds on low power.

When it comes to mixing in the dried fruits and nuts, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, which is not the desired outcome. Use a spatula to fold in these ingredients until they are just distributed throughout the dough. This method preserves the tender texture of the cookies while ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Storing and Sharing

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, making them perfect for holiday gifting or for enjoying throughout the season. To extend their freshness, consider freezing some of the baked cookies. Just place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper in between layers, and they can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a delicious treat.

Sharing these cookies is a wonderful way to spread holiday cheer. Package them in festive tins or boxes, and they make thoughtful gifts for neighbors, coworkers, or friends. A handwritten note or a holiday card attached can add a personal touch that makes your gesture even more special. Your loved ones will appreciate the effort and enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade cookies.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

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

Mix and match your favorite dried fruits for a personalized touch!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, spices, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Fold in Fruits and Nuts

Gently fold in the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts until evenly distributed.

Scoop and Bake

Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these cookies warm or store them in an airtight container for later!

Variations to Try

While the classic combination of raisins, cranberries, and apricots is delicious, feel free to experiment with different dried fruits. Chopped dates, figs, or even tropical fruits like mango can add a unique twist to your cookies. Additionally, you can switch up the nuts; try almonds or pecans for a different flavor profile. These small changes can create a variety of cookies that cater to different taste preferences.

For those who enjoy a little extra sweetness, consider adding white chocolate chips or a drizzle of chocolate on top after baking. This addition can elevate your cookies to a new level of indulgence, making them a memorable treat for all who taste them.

Serving Suggestions

These festive cookies pair perfectly with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making them an excellent choice for afternoon gatherings or holiday brunches. Serve them alongside a cheese platter for an elegant touch, where the sweetness of the cookies complements the savory flavors of the cheese. Their vibrant colors also make them a great addition to any dessert table during holiday celebrations.

Consider creating a cookie platter with a variety of holiday cookies for a delightful visual appeal and a range of flavors. Combining these fruitcake cookies with traditional favorites like gingerbread or sugar cookies can cater to all tastes and create a festive atmosphere at your gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried fruits?

It's best to stick with dried fruits for this recipe, as fresh fruits contain too much moisture.

→ How do I store the cookies?

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

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the dough or baked cookies for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped.

→ What can I substitute for the nuts?

You can omit the nuts entirely or use seeds like sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.