If you’re searching for a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of fruitcake with the convenience of cookies, look no further than the Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies. These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with a generous mix of fruits and nuts, making them perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual snack times. Their unique texture and flavor will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can create these delicious cookies without any fuss.
• Portable Treats: Unlike traditional fruitcake, these cookies are easy to pack and take on-the-go.
• High in Flavor: The combination of fruits and nuts ensures each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for holiday celebrations or as a sweet everyday snack.
• Make-Ahead Option: Bake in batches and store for later enjoyment—great for meal prep!

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking process smooth, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool simplifies mixing butter and sugar until fluffy, ensuring a light texture in your cookies.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls helps keep your ingredients organized during preparation.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.

this recipe

Ingredients

For these Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Sugars and Butter

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup light brown sugar (firmly packed)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)

Wet Ingredients

• 1 large egg (at room temperature)
• ½ tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1½ tablespoons vanilla extract (alcohol-free)

Fruits and Nuts

• 1 cup paradise fruit and peel mix
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup chopped walnuts

How to Make Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉. While it heats, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Cream Sugar and Butter

In the bowl of your stand mixer, combine the granulated sugar and unsalted butter. Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Egg and Extracts

Add in the large egg along with both types of vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until fully combined.

Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Lower the mixer speed and gradually add the flour mixture. Mix just until combined—be careful not to overmix! Fold in the chopped nuts and paradise fruit gently.

Step 6: Shape Cookies

Using a tablespoon, scoop dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet. Make sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The cookies might seem soft when you take them out but will firm up as they cool. Avoid overbaking as that leads to crunchy cookies.

Step 8: Cool Down

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about one minute before transferring them to a wire rack. This step allows air circulation around the cookies so they don’t steam or become soggy on the bottom.

Step 9: Repeat Baking

Continue this process until all cookie dough has been baked into delicious Chewy Fruitcake Cookies!

How to Serve Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies

Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether serving them at a holiday gathering or as an everyday snack, these cookies are sure to impress. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that enhances the flavors and brings out the sweetness of the fruit.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies on a festive platter alongside other treats like brownies or chocolate chip cookies for a colorful dessert spread at parties.

Crumbled Over Ice Cream

• Crumble the cookies over vanilla or any favorite ice cream for an added texture and burst of flavor. This makes for a delightful sundae topping!

Gift-Wrapped for Friends

• Package the cookies in decorative boxes or bags to share with friends and family. A lovely homemade gift idea that shows you care!

With Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. The chewyness of the cookies complements the warmth of your beverage beautifully.

How to Perfect Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies

Perfecting your Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies is all about mastering the technique and ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure every batch turns out deliciously chewy.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures better mixing and helps achieve that perfect chewy texture.
• Avoid overmixing: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy rather than dense.
• Chill dough if necessary: If your kitchen is warm, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.
• Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on them during baking; they should be soft when removed from the oven, allowing them to firm up while cooling.
• Cool properly: Let cookies cool on a wire rack so air can circulate, preventing soggy bottoms.

Best Side Dishes for Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies

Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.

2. Cheese Platter
   An assortment of cheeses, such as mild cheddar or brie, pairs well with the sweetness of the cookies and creates an interesting flavor balance.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a wholesome side dish that complements these chewy delights nicely.

4. Chocolate Fondue
   Melting chocolate creates an interactive dessert where you can dip cookie pieces into rich chocolate goodness for extra indulgence.

5. Nut Mix
   A simple bowl of mixed nuts offers crunch and saltiness that contrasts well with the sweetness of Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies.

6. Coffee Cake
   Serving coffee cake alongside offers another texture and flavor profile, perfect for brunch gatherings featuring these cookies.

7. Homemade Whipped Cream
   Light whipped cream adds creaminess that balances out the chewiness while also enhancing sweetness when served atop each cookie slice.

8. Dried Fruit Medley
   A mix of dried fruits like apricots, raisins, and cranberries adds extra fruity flavors that harmonize beautifully with your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes is key to making the Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies successfully. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients – Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
• Overmixing the dough – Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, chewy treats.
• Not measuring flour properly – Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate flour measurement. Too much flour can make cookies dry and crumbly.
• Skipping the cooling step – Allow cookies to cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from steaming and becoming soggy on the bottom.
• Baking at the wrong temperature – Ensure your oven is preheated properly. Baking at a lower temperature can result in undercooked cookies, while a higher temperature may make them hard.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Separate layers with parchment paper for easy access.

Reheating Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350℉, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave – Microwave each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Heat on low in a skillet, covered, for a couple of minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making the Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies.

Can I use different nuts in Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies?

Yes, feel free to substitute pecans or walnuts with almonds or pistachios based on your preference.

How do I ensure my Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies stay moist?

Proper storage is essential. Keep them in an airtight container, and avoid overbaking them for optimal moisture retention.

What fruits work best in Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies?

You can use any dried fruits you enjoy, such as cherries, cranberries, or apricots, along with the paradise fruit mix.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works well in baking.

Final Thoughts

The Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies are an excellent twist on traditional fruitcake, offering portability and delightful chewiness. These versatile cookies can be customized with various nuts and dried fruits to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy it is to make delicious cookies that bring joy any time of year!

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Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful world of Chewiest Fruitcake Cookies, where classic fruitcake flavors meet the convenience of cookies. These soft, chewy treats are loaded with a vibrant mix of fruits and nuts, making them the perfect indulgence for any occasion—from festive gatherings to casual snacking. With their unique texture and rich flavor profile, these cookies are sure to become a favorite among family and friends. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time for those busy days!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup light brown sugar (firmly packed)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1½ tablespoons alcohol-free vanilla extract
• 1 cup paradise fruit and peel mix
• ½ cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup chopped walnuts

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
3. In a stand mixer bowl, beat granulated sugar and butter until fluffy.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
5. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients until just mixed; fold in fruits and nuts gently.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10–12 minutes until soft; let cool on the baking sheet for one minute before transferring to a wire rack.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: For added variety, try using different dried fruits like cranberries or cherries. Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing. Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.