With the holiday season just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start planning your festive treats. These Christmas Cake Cookies are sure to be a hit at any gathering, combining the rich flavors of a traditional fruitcake with the convenience of a cookie. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these cookies will bring a touch of holiday cheer to your home. So, grab your apron and let’s get baking!
Recipe For Christmas Cake Cookies
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, cranberries, and apricots)
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
– 1/2 cup brandy or rum
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until well combined.
6. In a small bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits, chopped nuts, and brandy or rum. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the fruits to absorb the liquid.
7. Fold the fruit and nut mixture into the cookie dough until evenly distributed.
8. Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop rounded dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once cooled, you can drizzle them with a simple icing made by mixing powdered sugar with a little water or lemon juice for an extra touch of sweetness.
These Christmas Cake Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic fruitcake, perfect for sharing with loved ones or as a special treat for yourself during the holiday season. They are a great addition to any cookie swap or festive gathering, and their rich flavors and chewy texture will have everyone coming back for more. So, bring joy to your home with these delicious cookies that capture the essence of Christmas in every bite!
