Allow me to take you on a bit of a holiday baking trip with a nostalgic, delicious recipe. Easy Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies Freshly baked, warm, and with the memorable smell of butter and sugar in the air. All that is missing is taking a big bite of a crumby, rich cookie. That is what you get with these Easy Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies.
Now, I can hear you chuckling in the back, what fruitcake? Hear me out; I am not talking about your grandma’s dense, overly sweet style of fruitcake. This is a fun version of classic shortbread with colourful dried fruit (dried figs, raisins, dried cranberries, or apricots would be nice too!) and a hint of citrus. A perfect buttery, sweet, tangy three-way balance, which is basically a good cookie; and you’ve got a big crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
What makes this recipe so unique is, of course, its ease of preparation. As I said earlier, you don’t have to be a professional baker to be able to make a batch of cookies. This recipe requires minimal ingredients and effort for a dessert that looks and tastes like its from a fancy bakery. Oh, and the bonus is that you can use up any stray dried fruits you may have hanging around!
However, I think the real magic of these cookies is their flexibility. You can make them for your holiday celebration, to send to family or friends, or just to enjoy with a lovely cup of tea and maybe a good book. They are sure to bring you a smile and some joy. Not to mention their texture- crispy on the edges and tender in the center, packed with chewy bites of fruit- what more could a texture fiend ask for?
So, if you’re looking to step-up your cookie game and impress your friends and family, these cookies are the way to go. They are quick and easy, delicious and so fun to add a little sweetness to your day. So let’s get to baking!
Why You’ll Want to Make These Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies
For cookie lovers trying something new, this recipe is a win. Here are four reasons why :
- Flavor Pairing : The buttery nature of shortbread and the sweet, tangy notes from dried fruits and citrus zest make the perfect pairing.
- Simple Ingredients : With very few pantry staples these cookies can be made relatively cheaply and easily.
- Great Textures : Crisp edges, tender centers and chewy bits of fruit all make for a great eating experience.
- Versatile : They work great for holidays, parties, or even staying relaxed at home.
A Family Favorite: The Story Behind These Cookies
These Easy Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies have become a favorite in my house (especially during holidays!). I can recall making them for my husband for the first time. He’s not usually a fan of fruitcake, but he couldn’t stop raving about these cookies. “They’re like little bites of heaven,” he said, reaching for his third one.
Since then, they’ve become a must-have at every family gathering. My kids love helping me mix the dough and pick out their favorite dried fruits to add. It’s become a fun and festive tradition that we all look forward to.
Why These Simple Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies
These cookies are fantastic for so many reasons. First, they are super quick to make, and there are no fancy tools needed either. Second, buttery shortbread with chewy dried fruits is delicious. And last, you can use them for many occasions, festive or casual, it doesn’t matter.

Quote: Advice For Easy Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies
- Chill the Dough : Chilling the dough helps maintain the shape of the cookies. Also eliminate spreading.
- Use Good Ingredients : Since the recipe is so uncomplicated, using good quality butter and dried fruits is important.
Substitutes and Variations
- You can (and should) substitute the dried fruits with nuts or chocolate chips for a new kind of cookie.
- You can substitute lemon zest for the orange zest for something a little tangy.
Now Make It Happen
- You can use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
- You could use half almond flour instead of flour for a lower-carb version.
Closing For Easy Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies
And there you have it! Don’t forget to let us know how your dish turns out, and consider checking out some of our other Recipes :
Easy Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies
Description
Indulge in the delightful blend of flavors with these Easy Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies. A perfect combination of buttery shortbread and festive fruitcake, these cookies are a must-try for the holiday season. Simple to make and full of flavor, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and orange zest, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Fold in the dried fruits.
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Roll the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for 30 minutes. Slice the log into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Let cool before serving
Nutrition Facts
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size 18
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 3013.29kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 187.03g288%
- Saturated Fat 117.01g586%
- Cholesterol 488.05mg163%
- Sodium 1200.34mg51%
- Potassium 461.05mg14%
- Total Carbohydrate 311.38g104%
- Dietary Fiber 9.92g40%
- Sugars 114.45g
- Protein 28.48g57%
- Vitamin A 6081 IU
- Vitamin C 18.93 mg
- Calcium 119.39 mg
- Iron 12.17 mg
- Vitamin D 3.4 mcg
- Vitamin E 5.45 mg
- Vitamin K 22.09 mcg
- Thiamin 2 mg
- Riboflavin 1.37 mg
- Niacin 15.44 mg
- Vitamin B6 0.16 mg
- Folate 470.28 mcg
- Vitamin B12 0.39 mcg
- Pantothenic Acid 1.45 mg
- Phosphorus 341.46 mg
- Magnesium 68.61 mg
- Zinc 2.11 mg
- Selenium 87.74 mcg
- Copper 0.51 mg
- Manganese 1.76 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.