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 all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, cherries); 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans); 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies combine the festive flavors of fruitcake into delicious, bite-sized treats. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift!

Created by

Erin Wallace

Last updated on 2025-12-19T14:29:02.470Z

Christmas is a time for joy, family, and of course, delicious treats! These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies capture the essence of traditional fruitcake but in a cookie form. They're perfect for sharing and sure to be a hit at any holiday party.

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Delicious blend of fruits and nuts for a festive flavor
Chewy texture with a hint of spice
Perfectly portioned for easy sharing

      

The Joy of Baking Christmas Cookies

Baking during the holiday season is a cherished tradition for many families. The aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the house, creating an inviting atmosphere that brings everyone together. These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are perfect for embracing that spirit, combining the beloved flavors of classic fruitcake into a bite-sized treat that everyone will enjoy. Whether you're baking for a festive gathering or simply spoiling yourself, these cookies will surely spread holiday cheer.

The beauty of these cookies lies not just in their taste but also in their versatility. You can easily customize the types of dried fruits and nuts used, based on your preferences or what you have on hand. This means you can create a unique version of the recipe that reflects your family's favorite flavors. Plus, they make for a delightful gift when packaged in a pretty box or tin, adding a personal touch to your holiday presents.

Perfect for Sharing and Gifting

These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are ideal for sharing with friends and family. Their small, manageable size makes them easy to grab and enjoy, whether at a holiday party or during a cozy night in. This is especially important during the busy holiday season when everyone is looking for quick, delicious snacks to satisfy their sweet tooth. With their chewy texture and delightful flavor, they will be a hit among both kids and adults alike.

Additionally, these cookies are fantastic for gifting. Imagine surprising a neighbor with a beautifully wrapped box of homemade cookies, or bringing a batch to a holiday potluck. Not only do they taste amazing, but they also carry the warmth of home-baked goodness, making anyone feel special. A simple gesture like this can spread joy and kindness during the holiday season, reinforcing the spirit of giving.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your holiday cookies:

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, cherries)
1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Make sure to measure out your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your cookies:

Preheat Your Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

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

Fold in Fruits and Nuts

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

Scoop and Bake

Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden.

Cool and Enjoy

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

Enjoy your holiday cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of tea!

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay tasty for up to a week, making them a great option for preparing ahead of time. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Simply layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to three months. When you're ready to indulge, just let them thaw at room temperature.

Avoid storing cookies in a humid environment, as this can lead to them becoming soggy or losing their delightful texture. If you're worried about moisture, add a slice of bread to the container; this helps absorb excess humidity and keeps your cookies fresh longer.

Variations to Try

While the original recipe for these Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies is fantastic, feel free to experiment with different ingredients! You can substitute the mixed dried fruits with your favorites, such as apricots, figs, or even chocolate chips for a more indulgent treat. Additionally, consider adding a splash of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens the flavors.

For those who prefer a bit of crunch, try incorporating toasted coconut flakes or even crushed ginger cookies into the mix. These variations will not only enhance the flavor profile but also add a fun texture that makes each cookie unique. Don't hesitate to get creative and make these cookies your own!

Pairing Suggestions

These Easy Christmas Fruitcake Cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For a classic holiday experience, enjoy them with a warm cup of spiced cider or hot chocolate. The rich flavors of the cookies complement the warmth of these drinks, creating a cozy experience perfect for winter evenings.

If you're looking for something a bit more sophisticated, consider pairing your cookies with a nice cup of tea, such as chai or Earl Grey. The aromatic spices in the tea will enhance the flavors of the cookies beautifully. Alternatively, a glass of sweet dessert wine or even a festive eggnog can elevate your holiday treat experience, making it truly memorable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried fruits?

Fresh fruits can add moisture, so it's best to stick with dried fruits for this recipe.

→ How should I store these 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 cookies. Just make sure they are completely cooled before wrapping them tightly.

→ What can I substitute for nuts?

You can omit the nuts or use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds if you have nut allergies.