Christmas Cookies(These Could Be Called Fruitcake Cookies)
Festive and flavorful, these fruitcake cookies combine chopped candied cherries, dates, and crunchy pecans for a delightful treat perfect for holiday gatherings. Their rich, sweet taste and aromatic spices make them a crowd-pleaser, suitable for cookie exchanges or as a homemade gift.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix eggs, sugar, and margarine in a bowl.
- Combine cinnamon, salt, baking soda, and flour in a separate bowl.
- Add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture and stir well.
- Stir in the chopped candied cherries, dates, and chopped pecans.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. You can also substitute half of the dates with dried figs or raisins for a different twist. If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup. Make sure to chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies maintain their shape.
Serving Suggestions
These Christmas cookies make a delightful treat alongside a warm cup of spiced tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them on a decorated platter at holiday gatherings. They also pair beautifully with Honey Pecan Butter for a delicious twist. Consider offering a variety of cookies, including Miss Inez's Pineapple Casserole for a sweet contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Cookies(These Could Be Called Fruitcake Cookies) contains roughly 1396 calories, with 22g protein, 214g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (50% of the Daily Value), protein (44% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2636mg per serving (115% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruit instead of candied cherries?
Fresh fruit can introduce too much moisture, leading to soggy cookies. If you prefer fresh fruit, consider lowering the quantity and adding a bit of flour to balance the texture. Dried fruit is a better substitute for maintaining the cookies' structure.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough is sticky, try refrigerating it for 30 minutes to firm it up. You can also incorporate a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Avoid adding too much flour to keep the cookies tender.
How can I ensure my cookies are chewy?
To achieve chewy cookies, avoid overbaking. Bake just until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft. Also, using brown sugar instead of white sugar can enhance the chewiness, as it retains more moisture during baking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).