It’s that time of year when the air is filled with the delightful scents of baking, and no Christmas celebration is complete without a batch of festive cookies. If you’re looking for a unique twist on a holiday classic, these Christmas Fruitcake Cookies are just the treat to make your season merrier. Bursting with the flavors of dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, these cookies are a delightful fusion of traditional fruitcake and a sweet, buttery cookie. Whether you’re planning a cookie exchange or simply want to enjoy a cozy baking session at home, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your kitchen and put a smile on everyone’s face.
Title: Christmas Fruitcake Cookies Recipe Celebration Generation
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, cherries)
– 1 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans, almonds, walnuts)
– 1/2 cup brandy or rum (optional, for soaking the fruits)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts. If desired, pour brandy or rum over the mixture and let it soak for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. Drain any excess liquid before using.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a thick cookie dough forms.
7. Fold in the soaked dried fruits and nuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
8. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingertips.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. These cookies also freeze well for longer storage.
Enjoy these Christmas Fruitcake Cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of mulled wine for a truly festive treat that captures the spirit of the holiday season. They make a wonderful gift for friends and family and are perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings. Embrace the warmth and joy of baking with these delightful cookies that are sure to become a new favorite in your Christmas recipe collection. Happy baking and Merry Christmas!
