Bake these chewy fruitcake cookies that capture the classic holiday flavors of candied fruit and nuts in a simple, satisfying cookie format.
Author:Claire
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:12 min
Total Time:32 min
Yield:24 cookies 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup candied mixed fruit, chopped
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
1/4 cup finely chopped candied pineapple
1/4 cup brandy or orange juice (optional, for soaking fruit)
Instructions
If you choose to soak the fruit, combine the candied fruit, pineapple, and brandy or orange juice in a small bowl. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, then drain any excess liquid well.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until combined.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in the drained candied fruit and chopped nuts using a spatula.
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press lightly to flatten the tops slightly.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers are set. For a chewier cookie, slightly underbake.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For the best flavor, soak the candied fruit mixture overnight in the refrigerator before using.
If you are looking for alternatives to traditional baking methods, consider how this recipe compares to some meal planning strategies for holiday prep.
These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.