When the holiday season rolls around, nostalgia often finds its way into our kitchens, igniting a craving for comfort and tradition. That’s exactly how I stumbled upon this delightful recipe for Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies. While many shy away from fruitcake, these cookies change the game, offering all the festive flavors in a bite-sized treat that’s as comforting as a warm embrace.
Picture the rich scent of cinnamon and nutmeg swirling through your home as these cookies bake, filling the air with the essence of the holidays. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up—taking just 30 minutes from start to finish—but they also convert those who think fruitcake is passé into enthusiastic fans!
With their chewy texture and sweet pops of candied fruit and nuts, these cookies are perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday gift-giving. So, if you’re looking to rejuvenate your cookie repertoire and spread some cheer, let’s dive into this recipe that’s sure to please everyone at your table!
Why You'll Love This Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies
- These Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies are a breeze to make, ready in just 30 minutes, making them a perfect last-minute treat for any occasion.
- Bursting with the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sweet candied fruit, they’ll fill your home with a delightful aroma that captures the essence of the holiday season.
- Their chewy texture and colorful ingredients make them visually appealing, turning every cookie plate into an eye-catching centerpiece.
- Plus, they are incredibly versatile—enjoy them at cozy gatherings, as festive gifts, or simply as a delicious snack to savor anytime.
- Whether you're a fruitcake lover or a skeptic, these cookies will surely become a crowd-pleasing favorite that warms hearts and brings smiles.
Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies Ingredients
Let’s gather what we need to whip up these delightful treats!
For the Cookie Dough
- All-purpose flour – provides the base for a sturdy cookie that holds all the wonderful flavors!
- Baking soda – helps the cookies rise and achieve that perfect texture.
- Salt – enhances the sweet flavors, bringing balance to your Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies.
- Ground cinnamon – adds a warm, spicy note that screams holiday cheer.
- Ground nutmeg – gives a unique depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet ingredients.
- Unsalted butter – ensures the cookies are rich and buttery without the extra salt.
- Brown sugar – adds moisture and a deeper sweetness with its caramel flavor.
- Granulated sugar – works alongside brown sugar for that perfect sweet balance.
- Large eggs – bind everything together and help the cookies rise.
- Vanilla extract – infuses a lovely aromatic sweetness that complements the other flavors.
For the Mix-ins
- Mixed candied fruit – brings vibrant colors and sweet bursts in every bite, perfect for these festive cookies!
- Raisins or chopped dates – adds natural sweetness and chewy texture, making them a great addition.
- Walnuts or pecans – offer a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that rounds out the cookie beautifully.
How to Make Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This ensures the cookies bake evenly and won’t stick!
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Whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium bowl until well-combined. This will create a fragrant dry mix that adds warmth to your cookies.
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Cream the unsalted butter with both sugars in a large bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-4 minutes, and it's crucial for a tender cookie texture.
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Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. The eggs will help bind the ingredients while the vanilla adds a delicious aroma.
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Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as you want your cookies to remain soft and chewy rather than dense.
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Fold in the mixed candied fruit, raisins (or dates), and the walnuts (or pecans) gently. Ensure all the delightful mix-ins are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
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Scoop the dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them evenly to allow for spreading. You can use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to keep the cookies uniform in size.
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Bake the cookies for 12–15 minutes, or until they appear set and are lightly golden on the edges. The centers should remain soft, ensuring a chewy texture.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for a festive touch right before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies are perfect for meal prep and busy weeknights! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix all your ingredients and store the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves time, allowing you to whip them up quickly when cravings strike but also enhances the flavors overnight. When ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough onto baking sheets and follow the usual baking instructions. For best results, avoid letting the dough sit at room temperature for too long before baking to maintain that chewy texture. Enjoy the deliciousness of freshly baked cookies with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful chewy texture and rich flavors.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store the cookies in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 1 week, which can enhance their flavors over time.
Freezer: To freeze your Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes, bringing back that comforting warmth and aroma!
What to Serve with Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies?
Creating the perfect spread for your cookies can elevate any gathering into a memorable feast.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of this creamy chocolate drink complements the sweet, spiced flavors of the cookies perfectly. It’s like a cozy hug in a mug!
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Spiced Apple Cider: The tartness of apples and hint of cinnamon enhance the festive spirit of your dessert spread. Sip it warm to warm up your gatherings.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: Spread a thin layer on top of the cookies for extra richness. This smooth, tangy treat balances the sweetness of the fruitcake in a delightful way.
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Chopped Nuts: Serve alongside for a crunchy contrast to the chewy cookies. Consider walnuts or pecans to echo the flavors already in the cookies!
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Dried Fruit Mix: A medley of dried cranberries, apricots, and apples can provide a chewy companion that ties back to the candied fruits in your cookies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy classic can transform your cookie experience into an indulgent dessert. Warm cookies paired with cold ice cream create a perfect duo!
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Cheese Platter: Consider a platter featuring mild cheeses, like brie or cream cheese, for those who enjoy savory alongside sweet. The creamy texture can balance the sweet cookie wonderfully!
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Milk: You can’t go wrong with a cold glass of milk! It’s the ultimate classic pairing, especially for the nostalgic flavors found in Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies.
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Mint Tea: The refreshing notes of mint uplift and cleanse your palate, making the next bite of cookie even more enjoyable. It’s a light and invigorating option!
Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies Variations
Feel free to add your personal flair to these delightful cookies and make them truly your own!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
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Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts or pecans and replace them with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture without the nuts.
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Dried Fruit Boost: Substitute candied fruit with dried cranberries or cherries for a tangy twist that brightens every bite. This variation adds a pop of color and flavor!
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Spicy Kick: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the dry ingredients for a warm, spicy note that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
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Chocolate Lovers: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips instead of nuts for a rich chocolate version that cookie enthusiasts will adore.
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Maple Sweetness: Use maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor with a hint of autumn.
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Coconut Delight: Incorporate ½ cup of shredded coconut for a tropical touch that complements the spices and adds chewy texture.
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Citrus Zing: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the dough to brighten the flavors and infuse your cookies with zesty freshness.
With these variations, you'll find endless ways to enjoy your Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies, making them perfect for any taste!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies, ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming, which leads to a lighter texture.
- A common mistake is over-mixing the dough after adding dry ingredients; mix just until combined to keep your cookies chewy.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform-sized cookies, ensuring even baking and a consistent look.
- If you prefer softer cookies, check them at the lower end of the baking time, pulling them out while slightly underbaked for that perfect chewy center.
Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Choose candied fruits that are vibrant and not overly sticky, as this indicates they are fresh. When selecting nuts, look for ones that are crunchy and free from rancidity; they should be stored in a cool, dry place, ideally in an airtight container.
How should I store my Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies?
To maintain their delightful chewy texture, keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This method ensures they stay fresh and flavorful. If you'd like to extend their shelf life, you can also refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Can I freeze Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies?
Very! Freezing these cookies is a great option if you want to save some for later. Individually wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and place them inside a freezer-safe bag. This will protect them from freezer burn. They can remain in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours, or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
What common mistakes should I avoid while making these cookies?
One common troubleshooting tip is to be careful not to over-mix your dough after adding the dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined will result in soft and chewy cookies rather than dense ones. Additionally, if you prefer a softer cookie, check for doneness at the lower end of the baking time, around 12 minutes, and remove them while they're still slightly underbaked.
Are there any dietary considerations for Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies?
Absolutely! If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free all-purpose flour as a substitute for regular flour. You can also replace the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg) for a vegan-friendly option. For pet safety, avoid giving these cookies to dogs, as chocolate or certain nuts can be harmful to them. Always check the ingredient labels for potential allergens!
Old Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a medium bowl until well-combined.
- Cream the unsalted butter with both sugars in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined; do not over-mix.
- Fold in the mixed candied fruit, raisins (or dates), and walnuts (or pecans) gently.
- Scoop the dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them evenly.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until set and lightly golden on the edges; centers should remain soft.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
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