Decadent Chewy Fruitcake Cookies 🍪✨

Introduction

During the holiday season, our kitchen transforms into a hub of warmth and joy, filled with the scents of baking treats that bring us together. One of my family’s favorite recipes has become these Decadent Chewy Fruitcake Cookies. The combination of chewy textures and a delightful medley of flavors—thanks to candied fruits, nuts, and spices—has earned these cookies a special place in our hearts. Every time I bake them, the whole house fills with nostalgia, evoking memories of past holiday gatherings. Friends and family rave about these cookies, and I love how they are both traditional and unique at the same time. If you’re looking to bring a touch of holiday magic to your baking, these cookies are a must-try!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chopped candied fruit
• 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
• 1 cup raisins
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this dry mixture into the creamed mixture until just combined.
5. Fold in the chopped candied fruit, nuts, raisins, cinnamon, and nutmeg, ensuring everything is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and the centers are still soft.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 36 cookies
• Calories per serving: 150 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 32 minutes

How to Serve

• Warm from the Oven: Serve these cookies warm for an extra gooey treat.
• With Tea or Coffee: Pair with your favorite beverage for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Gift-Giving: Package in decorative tins or bags for thoughtful homemade gifts.
• At Holiday Gatherings: Arrange on a festive platter for parties and celebrations.
• As a Dessert: Serve as a sweet ending to a holiday meal.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
2. Chop Candied Fruit Uniformly: This ensures even distribution in each cookie for consistent flavor in every bite.
3. Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour mixture, mix just until combined to keep the cookies chewy.
4. Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to increase or decrease the cinnamon and nutmeg according to your taste preferences.
5. Store in Airtight Containers: Keep cookies fresh longer by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Chip Version: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips for a delicious twist on the classic.
• Dried Fruit Mix: Substitute raisins with dried cranberries or cherries for a fruity alternative.
• Coconut Delight: Add shredded coconut for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Spiced Nuts: Incorporate spiced or candied nuts for an additional festive touch.

Serving Suggestions

• Cheese Platter: Serve alongside a cheese platter for a sweet and savory combination.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to sandwich a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
• Cookie Bar: Create a dessert bar with various toppings and sauces for guests to customize their cookies.
• Brunch Buffet: Include them in a brunch spread alongside muffins and pastries.
• Potluck Treat: Bring these cookies to potlucks for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing Cookie Dough: You can freeze the dough before baking. Scoop dough balls onto a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storing Baked Cookies: Once baked, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a container.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

• Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe.

1. What can I substitute for eggs?

• Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan option.

1. How can I make these cookies less sweet?

• Reduce the amount of sugar by 1/4 cup or use less candied fruit.

1. Can I add more nuts?

• Yes! Feel free to increase the amount of nuts or use a variety for different textures.

1. What is the best way to chop candied fruit?

• Use kitchen scissors for a quick and easy chop without sticking.

1. How can I tell when the cookies are done?

• The edges should be lightly browned, while the centers will look slightly underbaked.

1. Can I use fresh fruit instead of candied?

• Fresh fruit may add excess moisture, so it’s best to stick with candied or dried fruit.

1. How do I store leftover cookies?

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

1. Can I double the recipe?

• Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in batches if necessary.

1. What if I don’t have all-purpose flour?
   • You can substitute with whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly.

Conclusion

These Decadent Chewy Fruitcake Cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that embody the spirit of the holiday season. Their chewy, soft centers packed with candied fruit, nuts, and spices make them an irresistible treat for gatherings or a cozy night in. As you gather with family and friends, these cookies are sure to create sweet memories and spread joy. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the process of baking these delightful cookies that are bound to become a favorite in your household! Happy baking!

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