Christmas Fruit Cookies
Festive and flavorful, these Christmas fruit cookies combine candied cherries, pineapple, raisins, and nuts for a rich, chewy treat perfect for holiday gatherings. The buttery cookie base is enhanced with vanilla and a medley of sweet, crunchy ingredients, making it a delightful indulgence for those who enjoy fruity, nutty confections.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream oleo and brown sugar together until smooth.
- Add eggs and milk to the creamed mixture and blend well.
- Fold in baking soda, flour, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Steam the raisins for 15 minutes, then drain and add to the batter.
- Mix chopped nuts, candied fruit, pineapple, and coconut with an additional cup of flour; fold into the batter.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of oleo for a richer taste. If you have nut allergies, you can substitute chopped nuts with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. Also, feel free to experiment with dried fruits like apricots or cranberries if candied fruits aren't available. For a festive twist, incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon into the batter.
Serving Suggestions
These Christmas Fruit Cookies make a delightful addition to any holiday dessert platter. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee, creating a cozy treat perfect for festive gatherings. For an added touch, serve them alongside Quaker Oatmeal Cookies for a varied texture and flavor experience that guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresher for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. If you want to enjoy them warm again, simply reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Fruit Cookies contains roughly 461 calories, with 8g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
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 different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any nuts you prefer, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds. Just make sure to chop them into smaller pieces to ensure they mix well with the batter and distribute evenly throughout the cookies.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, you can add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Make sure not to add too much flour as it can alter the cookie's texture. Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can also help firm it up.
Can I freeze these cookies for later use?
Yes, these cookies freeze well! After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. Thaw and enjoy whenever you're in the mood for a festive treat!
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).