Looking for a fresh take on traditional holiday treats? These Chewy Fruitcake Cookies bring all the beloved flavors of classic fruitcake with the soft, chewy texture of a cookie. Perfect for festive gatherings or holiday gift boxes, these cookies combine a mix of dried fruits, warm spices, and a touch of sweetness that everyone will love.
Ingredients for Chewy Fruitcake Cookies
To make these cookies extra chewy and flavorful, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ cups mixed dried fruits (like raisins, cherries, apricots)
- ½ cup chopped nuts (optional, such as pecans or walnuts)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
Tip: To bring out even more flavor, consider soaking the dried fruits in a little juice before mixing. It makes each bite richer and enhances the holiday feel.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dried Fruits and Nuts
If desired, soak the dried fruits for 30 minutes to add moisture and intensify flavor, then drain and pat dry. This step is optional but recommended for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 2: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients Separately
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to ensure even distribution of the spices. Here are some holiday baking recipes for an even better cookie experience.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Carefully fold in the soaked dried fruits and chopped nuts if using. This ensures that each cookie has a balanced mix of flavor and texture.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop the dough by rounded tablespoons onto the baking sheet, leaving room for spreading.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, with the centers remaining soft. Check out more holiday cookie recipes for your festive baking list!
Storage, Tips, and Variations
Tips for Storing and Serving
To keep these cookies chewy:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to three months.
Flavor Variations
For a different twist, try:
- Adding chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks for extra sweetness.
- A pinch of ginger or allspice for a spicier flavor.
- Replacing some of the mixed dried fruits with chopped nuts to add crunch.
FAQs
What makes fruitcake cookies chewy?
Using dried fruits and a bit of butter gives these cookies a soft, chewy texture that’s different from the dense fruitcake texture.
Can fresh fruit be used instead?
It’s best to stick with dried fruits, as fresh fruit adds too much moisture and can make the cookies soggy.
How do I keep cookies fresh and soft?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for a week, or freeze for longer storage to maintain that chewy texture.
Enjoy these Decadent Chewy Fruitcake Cookies at your next holiday gathering!