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Christmas Fruitcake Cookies

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These easy homemade Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are packed with candied fruit, toasted pecans, and warm spices for a festive holiday treat. Soft, chewy, and irresistibly buttery, they’re perfect for cookie swaps, gifting, or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 baking flour)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (or vegan butter)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped candied fruit mix (cherries, pineapple, citrus peel)
  • 1/2 cup golden raisins (optional)
  • 1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped (or walnuts)
  • 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
  • 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a small skillet over medium heat, toast chopped pecans for 3–5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  4. In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
  5. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
  6. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing just until combined.
  7. Gently fold in candied fruit, golden raisins, toasted pecans, and any optional extras (coconut, orange zest, chocolate chips).
  8. Portion dough into 1.5-inch balls using a cookie scoop or tablespoon. Arrange 2 inches apart on baking sheets. Chill dough for 10 minutes if sticky.
  9. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until edges are golden and centers are just set.
  10. Let cookies rest on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Notes

Toast pecans for deeper flavor. Chill dough if it’s too soft to prevent spreading. Toss candied fruit with a tablespoon of flour if it sinks in the dough. For gluten-free or dairy-free, use appropriate flour and butter substitutes. Freeze dough for up to 2 months and bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to bake time.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas cookies, fruitcake cookies, holiday baking, candied fruit, pecan cookies, festive dessert, easy cookie recipe

Find it online: https://lucydishes.com/christmas-fruitcake-cookies-recipe-easy-homemade-holiday-treat-packed-with-candied-fruit/