Fruitcake Cookies Recipe

Here’s a simple recipe for Fruitcake Cookies, a delightful treat with all the flavors of traditional fruitcake but in a bite-sized form!

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 1/2 cups chopped candied fruit (a mix of cherries, pineapple, etc.)
• 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts work well)
• 1/2 cup raisins or currants
• Optional: 1–2 tablespoons dark rum for soaking the fruit (for a traditional touch)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruits (Optional):
   • For added flavor, soak the candied fruit and raisins in dark rum for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Drain before adding to the batter.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the orange juice.
4. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Mix the Batter:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.
   • Fold in the candied fruit, nuts, and raisins.
6. Scoop the Cookies:
   • Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake:
   • Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Be careful not to overbake to keep them moist.
8. Cool and Serve:
   • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

• Add a touch of vanilla or almond extract for extra flavor.
• Sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for a festive finish.
• Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

Enjoy these festive and flavorful cookies! Let me know if you’d like help with any variations.