Christmas Cake Cookies: A Festive Fusion Treat You’ll Love

Introduction

The holidays are a time for baking, and if you’re torn between making a classic fruitcake or a batch of festive cookies, why not have both? Christmas Cake Cookies are a delicious fusion that combines the warmth of a traditional holiday fruitcake with the comfort and convenience of a cookie. Packed with dried fruits, warm spices, and a hint of rum or brandy flavor, these cookies are the perfect addition to your Christmas baking list.

What Are Christmas Cake Cookies?

Christmas Cake Cookies are inspired by the classic holiday fruitcake but transformed into a chewy, flavorful cookie. They’re made with ingredients like candied cherries, raisins, pecans, and holiday spices, often soaked in rum or orange juice for added depth. These cookies are festive, aromatic, and incredibly giftable  ideal for cookie swaps, dessert platters, or a treat with your evening tea.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick overview of what goes into the perfect batch of Christmas Cake Cookies:

  • Butter – Unsalted and softened

  • Brown Sugar – For rich, caramel-like sweetness

  • Eggs – To bind everything together

  • All-Purpose Flour – Your cookie base

  • Baking Powder & Baking Soda – For that ideal texture

  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Cloves – Traditional holiday spices

  • Vanilla Extract – For warmth and depth

  • Chopped Nuts – Walnuts or pecans add crunch

  • Dried Fruits – Raisins, chopped dates, candied cherries

  • Optional Soaking Liquid – Rum, brandy, or orange juice to soak the fruit for 1-2 hours

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Soak the Fruit
    In a small bowl, combine your dried fruits with a few tablespoons of rum or juice. Let soak for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.

  2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
    In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.

  3. Combine Dry Ingredients
    In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

  4. Mix the Dough
    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Fold in soaked fruits and chopped nuts.

  5. Chill the Dough
    For best results, chill the dough for 30–60 minutes. This makes the cookies easier to shape and enhances flavor.

  6. Bake
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden around the edges.

  7. Cool and Decorate (Optional)
    Let cookies cool completely. Drizzle with a powdered sugar glaze or white chocolate for extra holiday flair!

Why These Cookies Are a Must-Try This Christmas

  • Unique and Nostalgic: Combines the flavor of fruitcake with a more approachable texture

  • Perfect for Gifting: Wrap them in festive cellophane or cookie tins

  • Customizable: Add your favorite nuts, fruits, or even chocolate chips

  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Dough can be frozen and baked fresh as needed

Variations to Try

  • Chocolate-Dipped: Dip half of each cookie in dark or white chocolate.

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

  • No-Alcohol Version: Simply soak fruits in orange juice or apple cider.

  • Mini Cookie Sandwiches: Add a dollop of buttercream or cream cheese frosting between two cookies.

Holiday Baking Tips

  • Use fresh spices: Fresh ground cinnamon and nutmeg elevate the flavor.

  • Don’t skip the chilling step: It prevents cookies from spreading too much and deepens the taste.

  • Double the batch: These cookies will disappear fast!

Pair With…

  • Eggnog or mulled wine for a warm holiday evening

  • Hot chocolate for a kid-friendly pairing

  • Coffee or espresso for an indulgent afternoon treat

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a standout recipe this season, Christmas Cake Cookies are it. They’re festive, full of nostalgic holiday flavor, and versatile enough to suit a variety of palates. Whether you’re gifting, baking for a party, or just enjoying some cozy kitchen time, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

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