Jolly Fruitcake Delight Cookies
If you love the warm nostalgia of classic fruitcake but wish it came in a softer, more irresistible form, these
Jolly Fruitcake Delight Cookies are about to become your new holiday obsession. Bursting with jewel-toned candied fruit,
tropical pineapple, crunchy nuts, and wrapped in a tender, buttery cookie base, this recipe transforms a traditional holiday dessert
into a soft, chewy, bakery-style cookie that even fruitcake skeptics adore.
Perfect for Christmas cookie platters, festive gatherings, or cozy afternoons with coffee or tea, these cookies deliver
big holiday flavor in every bite. They’re rich without being heavy, sweet without being overpowering, and incredibly easy
to make — no soaking fruit for days, no complicated steps, just pure seasonal joy.
Ingredients & Why Each One Matters
For the Fruity Goodness
- Candied Cherries – These vibrant gems add a sweet-tangy burst of flavor and stunning festive color, making each cookie visually irresistible.
- Candied Pineapple – Tropical chunks bring moisture, gentle sweetness, and a sunshine-like flavor that keeps the cookies soft and tender.
- Raisins – Provide natural sweetness and a chewy texture that balances the sugary candied fruits beautifully.
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts – Add crunch, richness, and a nutty depth that grounds the sweetness of the fruit.
For the Cookie Dough Base
- Unsalted Butter (softened) – Creates a rich, tender crumb and allows full control over salt levels.
- Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and deep caramel notes that complement the fruit perfectly.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides structure and balances the chewiness with a light crisp edge.
- Eggs – Bind the dough together while adding richness and softness.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances all flavors and adds warm bakery aroma.
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the foundation of the cookie structure.
- Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise slightly and stay soft.
- Salt – Essential for balancing sweetness and enhancing flavor.
- Warm Spices (Cinnamon & Nutmeg) – Bring classic holiday warmth and that unmistakable fruitcake essence.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Chop the candied cherries and pineapple into small, even pieces. This ensures the fruit is evenly distributed throughout the cookies.
Lightly toss the fruit and raisins with a tablespoon of flour to prevent sinking in the dough.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key
for achieving soft, chewy cookies with a delicate crumb.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Mix in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for warmth and depth.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients,
mixing just until combined.
Step 5: Fold in the Fruit and Nuts
Gently fold in the prepared candied fruit, raisins, and nuts. The dough will be thick, colorful, and packed with festive goodness.
Step 6: Bake
Scoop dough onto lined baking sheets, spacing evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are set and the centers remain soft.
Step 7: Cool
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them finish setting while staying chewy.
Why Everyone Loves These Cookies
- All the flavor of fruitcake without the dense texture
- Soft, chewy, and buttery every single time
- Perfect for gifting and holiday cookie boxes
- Beginner-friendly with impressive results
- Festive and colorful, making them stand out on any dessert table
Pro Tips for Perfect Fruitcake Cookies
- Don’t overbake – Slightly underbaked cookies stay soft for days.
- Use room-temperature butter for proper creaming and texture.
- Chop fruit finely for even bites and better dough structure.
- Let dough rest for 20–30 minutes if it feels too soft.
- Store airtight to keep cookies moist and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Jolly Fruitcake Delight Cookies with hot coffee, spiced tea, or warm cocoa for the ultimate cozy experience.
They’re perfect on holiday dessert trays, alongside shortbread and chocolate cookies, or wrapped beautifully as edible gifts.
Final Thoughts
These Jolly Fruitcake Delight Cookies prove that fruitcake doesn’t have to be controversial — it can be soft, chewy, colorful,
and absolutely crave-worthy. With simple ingredients, easy steps, and unforgettable flavor, this recipe delivers
maximum holiday cheer with minimal effort. One batch is never enough, and once you try them, they’ll earn a permanent place
in your festive baking tradition.