Decadent Chewy Fruitcake Cookies

Decadent Chewy Fruitcake Cookies are a delightful twist on the traditional fruitcake, packed with rich dried fruits, warm spices, and a soft, chewy texture. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a comforting snack, these cookies offer all the festive flavors of fruitcake in a portable, bite-sized treat.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter – softened
• 1 cup brown sugar – packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 cup dried cherries
• 1 cup dried apricots – chopped
• 1 cup golden raisins
• 1 cup candied citrus peel
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• Optional: 2 tablespoons rum or orange juice – for soaking dried fruits

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fruits (Optional):
   • If desired, soak the dried cherries, apricots, and raisins in rum or orange juice for 30 minutes to enhance their flavor. Drain excess liquid before use.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
   • Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
5. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
7. Fold in Fruits and Nuts:
   • Gently fold in the prepared dried fruits, candied peel, and nuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
8. Scoop and Shape:
   • Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake:
   • Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain slightly soft.
10. Cool:

• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: These cookies are best enjoyed fresh with a cup of tea or coffee. Their rich flavors make them a festive addition to holiday dessert tables.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to three months, separating layers with parchment paper.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried fruits?
No, fresh fruits contain too much moisture, which could affect the texture and shelf life of the cookies. Stick to dried or candied fruits for the best results.

2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for similar results.

3. Can I replace the rum with another liquid?
Yes, you can use orange juice, apple juice, or even water to soak the fruits if you prefer a non-alcoholic option.

4. Do these cookies need to be refrigerated?
No, they don’t need refrigeration. However, storing them in an airtight container at a cool, dry place ensures they stay fresh longer.

Enjoy your Decadent Chewy Fruitcake Cookies!

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