As the holiday season approaches and the scent of spices fills the air, I can’t help but recall the joy of baking with loved ones. This is the time of year when memories are baked into every treat, and nothing captures that spirit quite like my Easy Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies. Imagine buttery cookies bursting with the vibrant colors of candied cherries and succulent pineapple, each bite offering a delightful crunch from toasted pecans – it’s like a classic fruitcake, but in a softer, more accessible form.
These cookies are perfect for sharing with friends at festive gatherings or wrapping up as thoughtful homemade gifts. What I love most is how simple they are to make; you can whip up a batch and have them ready for cookie exchanges or last-minute holiday parties in no time. Plus, with a gluten-free option available, everyone can indulge in this nostalgic treat without worry. Let’s dive into the recipe together and bring a little holiday cheer to your kitchen!
Why Choose Easy Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies?
Delightful flavors come together in these festive treats, offering a modern twist on a traditional favorite. Simple instructions make baking a breeze, perfect for any skill level. A gluten-free option means everyone at your gathering can join in. Bursting with colorful fruits and nuts, they provide both texture and taste that will leave your friends craving more. Ideal for gifting, these cookies not only bring joy to recipients but also create cherished memories in the kitchen.
Easy Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; make sure it’s at room temperature for easier creaming.
- Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in browning; consider using brown sugar for extra depth of flavor.
- Large Egg – Binds ingredients together; it should be at room temperature for better mixing.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds classic flavor; opt for high-quality extract to elevate the cookie’s taste.
- Almond Extract – Enhances the nutty flavor; can be replaced with hazelnut extract if desired.
- Lemon Extract – Brightens the overall flavor profile and complements the sweetness.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; for a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Salt – Enhances flavors and balances sweetness, bringing all ingredients together.
- Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise and maintain a fluffy texture, ensuring they don’t become too dense.
For the Fruity Mix-Ins
- Diced Candied Pineapple – Adds a chewy texture and tropical sweetness; ensure it’s not overly dried out for the best results.
- Candied Red Cherries – Offers sweetness and vibrant color, making your cookies visually appealing.
- Candied Green Cherries – Adds a lovely pop of color, enhancing the festive nature of these cookies.
- Chopped Pecans – Introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; can omit or substitute with seeds for nut-free cookies.
These Easy Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies come together with these simple ingredients, allowing you to create heartwarming holiday treats that are perfect for sharing and gifting!
How to Make Easy Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies
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Preheat the oven: Begin by setting your oven to 300°F (150°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy removal.
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Cream together: In a mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This step adds air and ensures a tender cookie.
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Incorporate the egg and extracts: Beat in the large egg along with the vanilla, almond, and lemon extracts. Mix until everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth.
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Whisk dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda. This helps ensure even distribution of ingredients, leading to a perfect cookie texture.
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Combine wet and dry: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Don’t overmix it; just blend until you see no dry flour.
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Add fruity mix-ins: Fold in the diced candied pineapple, candied red and green cherries, and chopped pecans. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough for delicious bites in every cookie.
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Drop the dough: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 3-4 inches apart to give them room to spread.
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Bake the cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 20-25 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as oven times may vary.
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Cool the cookies: Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Drizzle with a little icing for added sweetness and decoration.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies are fantastic for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to get a head start on holiday baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and then wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to refrigerate. To maintain quality, chilling the dough helps enhance the flavors and prevents over-spreading during baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and add a few additional minutes to the baking time if the dough is particularly cold. This way, you’ll have freshly baked cookies with minimal effort, perfect for those busy holiday evenings!
Easy Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful cookies and indulge your taste buds!
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Nut-Free: Swap pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a gluten-free, nut-free treat that still delivers crunch.
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Dried Fruit: Replace candied fruits with a mix of dried cranberries and apricots for a chewy, tart twist that brightens each bite.
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Chocolate-Dipped: Elevate your cookies by dipping the edges in melted dark or white chocolate, adding an extra layer of sweetness and decadence.
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Cinnamon Spice: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a cozy, warm spice flavor that will envelop your kitchen in holiday cheer.
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Zesty Citrus: for an invigorating zing, replace lemon extract with orange zest or extract, enhancing the fruity flavors of your cookies.
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Maple Sweetness: Substitute granulated sugar with maple sugar for a unique, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the fruit and nuts.
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Coconut Delight: Mix in shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical twist that harmonizes beautifully with the candied fruits.
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Gluten-Free Blend: Use a gluten-free baking blend to keep your cookies soft and tender, so everyone can join in on the holiday fun.
Expert Tips for Easy Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to prevent tough cookies; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
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Chill If Needed: In warm environments, chill your dough for 15 minutes before baking to control spreading and maintain shape.
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Quality Matters: Use high-quality vanilla and almond extracts; this small detail can significantly elevate your Easy Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies’ flavor.
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Flavor Substitutions: Feel free to substitute ingredients based on preference, like using dried fruits or different nuts, to customize your cookies!
Storage Tips for Easy Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor.
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Fridge: If you want to keep them fresh a bit longer, place the cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
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Reheating: If desired, warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving for that just-baked experience. Enjoy your Easy Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies!
What to Serve with Easy Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies?
As the aroma of your freshly baked cookies fills the air, it’s time to think about wonderful pairings that will elevate your festive gatherings.
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Spiced Pumpkin Chai: This warm, aromatic drink harmonizes beautifully with the cookie’s fruity richness, enhancing its holiday spirit. The spices combine to create a cozy atmosphere perfect for chilly nights.
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Hot Chocolate: A classic winter pairing, the rich, creamy chocolate complements the buttery texture of the cookies, making each bite feel indulgent and comforting.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: Adding a dollop of slightly tangy cream cheese frosting can transform these cookies into an even more decadent treat. The tanginess cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
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Dried Fruit Medley: Offer a side of mixed dried fruits like apricots and cranberries. Their natural sweetness and chewy texture balance the cookies while adding a vibrant holiday color to your spread.
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Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory twist. The creaminess pairs well with the crunch of pecans, creating a delightful contrast in your bites.
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Eggnog: This traditional holiday drink, with its rich and creamy character, is a nostalgic pairing that enhances the festive atmosphere of your gathering.
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Gingerbread Latte: The warm, spiced flavors of a gingerbread latte complement the fruity aspects of the cookies and create a warm, welcoming beverage choice for holiday entertaining.
Indulging in these combinations will surely create cherished moments and leave your guests feeling merry!
Easy Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of butter should I use for these cookies?
I highly recommend using unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture in your Easy Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies. Make sure to have it at room temperature, which helps create a light and fluffy cookie dough when creamed with sugar.
How should I store these cookies?
You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to extend their freshness, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. For long-term storage, wrap individual cookies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! To freeze the dough, scoop it into heaping tablespoons and flash freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top plastic bag and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply bake from frozen, increasing the baking time by a few minutes.
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to the dough being too warm. To prevent this, chill the dough for 15 minutes before baking, especially in warm environments. Overmixing can also lead to spreading, so make sure to mix just until combined.
Are there any allergies I should consider with these cookies?
When making Easy Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies, it’s essential to consider common allergens like nuts and gluten. You can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version. For nut allergies, feel free to omit the pecans or substitute them with sunflower seeds, which maintain that delightful crunch without the risk. Always check the labels of your ingredients for potential allergens.
How can I tell when my cookies are done?
Look for the edges of your cookies to turn golden brown while the centers remain slightly soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. Baking them for about 20-25 minutes at 300°F (150°C) usually results in perfect cookies, so keep an eye on them towards the end of baking!
Easy Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies for Holiday Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Beat in the large egg along with the vanilla, almond, and lemon extracts until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Fold in the diced candied pineapple, red cherries, green cherries, and chopped pecans.
- Drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 3-4 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies for 20-25 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.