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 dried mixed fruit; 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Delightful and festive, these Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are packed with dried fruits and nuts, bringing the joy of the season in every bite.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2025-12-19T14:01:03.540Z

These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies combine the beloved flavors of traditional fruitcake with the convenience of a cookie. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as gifts!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Festive flavors of dried fruits and nuts in every bite
Quick and easy recipe, perfect for busy holiday schedules
Great for gifting or sharing at holiday parties

      

A Festive Treat for the Holidays

When the holiday season approaches, the aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air, creating a sense of warmth and joy. These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are not only a delightful addition to your festive spread but also a wonderful way to embrace the spirit of giving. Their vibrant colors and rich flavors make them a beautiful centerpiece on any holiday table, ensuring they will be appreciated by friends and family alike.

Each cookie is a burst of flavor, thanks to the combination of dried mixed fruits and crunchy nuts. The sweetness of the fruit complements the buttery richness of the cookie, while spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add a cozy warmth. These cookies truly encapsulate the essence of the season, making them a must-bake recipe for anyone looking to spread holiday cheer.

Perfect for Gifting and Sharing

One of the joys of the holiday season is sharing delicious treats with loved ones. These cookies are ideal for gifting, whether you’re filling decorative tins for neighbors or preparing care packages for distant friends. Their festive appearance and irresistible taste will surely bring a smile to anyone who receives them.

Packaging these cookies is a breeze; simply layer them in a festive box or container, perhaps with a sprig of holly or a festive ribbon to elevate their presentation. The thoughtful gesture of homemade cookies shows you care, making them a cherished gift during the holiday season.

Customization Ideas

While this recipe is delightful as it is, feel free to customize it to suit your taste! You can experiment with different types of dried fruits, such as cranberries, apricots, or even tropical fruits like mango. Similarly, try using various nuts or even chocolate chips for a richer flavor profile. This versatility allows you to create a cookie that’s uniquely yours.

Additionally, consider adding a drizzle of icing or a sprinkle of powdered sugar once the cookies have cooled for an elegant touch. These small enhancements can elevate the aesthetic and flavor, making your Christmas Fruitcake Cookies even more special!

Ingredients

For the Cookies

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

Mix the ingredients well to ensure a delightful cookie texture.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the dried fruits and nuts.

Shape Cookies

Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake

Bake in preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Serve

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

Enjoy your festive cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!

Storage Tips

To keep your Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, retaining their chewy texture and rich flavors. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag before freezing.

When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature for a few hours. This way, you can indulge in your festive treats long after the holidays have passed!

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate your serving game by pairing them with a warm beverage. A cup of spiced tea or hot cocoa complements the rich flavors of the cookies perfectly. For a festive touch, serve them on a platter adorned with seasonal decorations, such as pinecones or sprigs of evergreen.

Additionally, consider making a cookie platter with other holiday favorites to create a delightful spread for gatherings. Your guests will appreciate the variety, and these cookies will surely stand out as a favorite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?

Fresh fruit contains too much moisture and can affect the texture of the cookies. It's best to use dried fruit.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I add chocolate chips to the recipe?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips can add a delicious twist to these cookies.

→ Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

Yes, these cookies make a wonderful homemade gift during the holiday season!