Christmas Fruit Cookies(My Favorites)
Festive Christmas fruit cookies bursting with candied cherries, pineapple, raisins, and warm spices, perfect for holiday gatherings and sweet treats that resemble fruit cake but easier to make.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together brown sugar, butter, eggs, and the soda dissolved in milk.
- Sift together flour, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, and salt three times.
- Chop candied cherries, pineapple, raisins, and chopped pecans; mix with the dry ingredients.
- Add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture, then incorporate 1/2 cup frozen orange juice and mix with hands.
- Form the dough into cookies and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 20 minutes at 300°F (150°C).
- Allow to cool, then store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using dark brown sugar instead of light brown. If you're out of candied fruit, you can substitute with dried fruit or a mix of chopped nuts. Make sure to sift the dry ingredients well to ensure a light and airy cookie. For added texture, consider folding in some finely chopped pecans or walnuts.
Serving Suggestions
These Christmas Fruit Cookies are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of spiced tea. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a slice of Pumpkin-Spice Pie or during holiday gatherings with friends and family.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their freshness, you can also freeze the cookies. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Fruit Cookies(My Favorites) contains roughly 1297 calories, with 11g protein, 139g carbohydrates, and 93g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (154% of the Daily Value), iron (74% of the Daily Value), and calcium (59% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2089mg per serving (91% 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 fruit?
Fresh fruit may alter the texture and moisture of the cookies, making them too soft. If you prefer a healthier option, consider using dried fruit instead, which will provide some sweetness without the additional moisture.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle. Additionally, you can sprinkle a little extra flour on your hands and work surface to help with shaping the cookies.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the cookies and freeze them for later enjoyment. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container.
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).