Introduction
For those who love the warm nostalgia of the holidays, Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies offer the perfect balance of tradition and modern convenience. Packed with vibrant candied fruits, crunchy pecans, and a delicate blend of flavors, these cookies deliver the essence of fruitcake in a bite-sized treat. Perfect for gifting, holiday parties, or enjoying with a cup of tea, these cookies transform a classic into a timeless favorite.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Fruitcake has long been associated with celebrations, dating back to Roman times when dried fruits, nuts, and spices symbolized wealth and abundance. Over the centuries, fruitcake became a staple at weddings, holidays, and other special occasions. These cookies take the rich history of fruitcake and reimagine it as a portable, crowd-pleasing dessert. By combining tradition with convenience, they bridge the gap between old-fashioned charm and modern tastes.
Ingredients: Quantities and Optional Additions
Core Ingredients:
1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature) – Ensures a soft, buttery texture.
3/4 cup sugar – Sweetens the cookies perfectly.
1 large egg – Adds structure and richness.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Brings warmth and depth.
1/2 tsp almond extract – Enhances the nutty flavor.
1/4 tsp lemon extract – Adds a subtle citrusy brightness.
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure.
1/2 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness.
1/2 tsp baking soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly.
1 cup diced candied pineapple – A sweet and tropical element.
1 cup diced candied red cherries – Adds festive color and sweetness.
1 cup diced candied green cherries – Completes the holiday palette.
1 cup coarsely chopped pecans – Provides crunch and nutty flavor.
Optional Additions:
1/2 cup golden raisins – For an extra chewy texture.
1/2 cup shredded coconut – Adds a tropical twist.
1 tsp ground cinnamon – For warm, spicy notes.
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg – Enhances the holiday flavor profile.
Tips for Success
Use room temperature butter: This ensures even mixing and a smoother dough.
Chill the dough: For thicker, less spread-out cookies, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Uniform sizes: Use a cookie scoop for evenly-sized cookies that bake consistently.
Don’t overbake: Remove the cookies when they’re golden brown to maintain a soft interior.
Store properly: Keep the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Instructions
Preheat the oven: Set it to 300°F and line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Cream butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add wet ingredients: Mix in the egg, vanilla, almond, and lemon extracts, ensuring everything is well combined.
Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just incorporated.
Fold in the extras: Gently fold in the candied fruits and pecans until evenly distributed.
Shape the cookies: Drop the dough by heaping tablespoons onto the prepared cookie sheet, spacing them 3-4 inches apart.
Bake: Place the cookies in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Description
These Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies are a delightful blend of buttery softness and chewy sweetness. Vibrant chunks of candied fruits dot the cookies, providing bursts of flavor, while the chopped pecans add a satisfying crunch. The combination of extracts ensures a complex and well-rounded taste that elevates these cookies beyond ordinary holiday treats.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per cookie):
Calories: 80-90
Protein: 1g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 35mg
Conclusion and Recommendation
Old-Fashioned Fruitcake Cookies capture the essence of holiday baking with their cheerful appearance and comforting flavors. These cookies are an excellent addition to any cookie platter, perfect for gifting or sharing at festive gatherings. For a nostalgic twist, pair them with a glass of milk or a steaming mug of spiced tea.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
If you want a healthier version, consider swapping some all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and reducing the sugar by 1/4 cup. For a dairy-free alternative, replace the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based substitute. These adjustments maintain the festive charm of these cookies while accommodating diverse dietary preferences.
