Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the holiday season approaches, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the delightful scent of baking. This year, I’m excited to share my recipe for Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies, a festive twist on the cherished fruitcake tradition. These cookies not only capture the buttery essence you crave, but they’re also surprisingly simple to make, making them a fantastic shortcut for busy bakers. With a perfect blend of crisp edges and soft, tender middles, they promise to be a delightful addition to your holiday cookie trays or a thoughtful gift for loved ones. Who wouldn’t want to share a little piece of homemade joy? What festive flavors or ingredients will you experiment with in your own batch? Why Choose Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies? Irresistible Combination: These cookies beautifully blend buttery shortbread with the sweetness of glazed fruits, giving you a unique twist on traditional fruitcake. Festive Treat: Perfect for holiday gatherings, they add a joyful touch to your cookie trays. Quick and Easy: With straightforward instructions, you’ll find that making these cookies is a breeze, perfect for busy bakers! Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to experiment with different fruits or nuts, as well as flavored glazes, adding your personal creative spin to each batch. Gifting Made Simple: Pack them beautifully for loved ones, and share a delightful homemade treat that’s sure to impress. Looking for more cookie inspiration? Check out my delicious Pistachio Cream Cookies or try these flavorful Lemon Pistachio Cookies for a festive twist! Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies Ingredients For the Cookie Dough Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the dough and contributes to a tender crumb; you can substitute with granulated sugar if needed, though texture will differ. Vanilla Extract – Provides depth of flavor; using pure vanilla enhances the cookies greatly, but imitation can work in a pinch. All-Purpose Flour – Forms the structure of the cookies; opt for gluten-free flour blends if needed, but be aware results may vary. Glazed Fruits and Glazed Cherries – Infuse sweetness and a festive touch; if necessary, dried fruits can substitute, just chop them finely. For the Glaze Powdered Sugar – Delivers sweetness to the glaze; a sifted version prevents clumps for a smooth finish. Rum or Milk – Helps achieve the desired glaze consistency; milk offers a milder flavor, while rum adds a festive twist to your fruitcake shortbread cookies. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar In a stand mixer, beat 1 cup of room-temperature butter with 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract on medium speed. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, around 3-4 minutes. This step creates a rich, creamy base for your Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies, ensuring they have a lovely buttery flavor. Step 2: Incorporate the Flour Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the creamed butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; stop as soon as the flour is incorporated, and you still have some small lumps. This will keep your cookies tender and maintain a delightful crumb in your fruitcake shortbread cookies. Step 3: Fold in the Fruits Gently fold in 1 cup each of glazed fruits and glazed cherries using a spatula or your hands. This step allows you to minimize dough handling, keeping your cookies soft. Make sure the fruits are evenly distributed throughout the dough for a burst of flavor in each bite of your festive treat. Step 4: Chill the Dough Shape the dough into two squares and wrap them in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for about 25 minutes to firm up the dough. This chilling process is essential for the cookies to retain their shape while baking, enhancing the texture of your Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies. Step 5: Preheat the Oven While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This ensures that once your fruitcake shortbread cookie dough is ready to cut, you can quickly transition to baking without any delays. Step 6: Cut the Cookies Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice it into strips, then cut these strips into cookie-sized pieces. Aim for a uniform thickness of about half an inch for even baking. The fun shapes you create will make your Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies visually appealing and ready to enjoy. Step 7: Bake the Cookies Place the cut cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 23-25 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on the cookies, as they can go from perfect to overbaked quickly, so this timing is crucial for achieving that wonderful texture. Step 8: Cool the Cookies Once baked, remove the sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. After that, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling process allows the cookies to set, ensuring a crispy edge and a tender center in your perfect Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies. Step 9: Prepare the Glaze In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of sifted powdered sugar with 2-4 tablespoons of rum or milk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Adjust the liquid to reach your desired glaze consistency; a thicker glaze is ideal for a nice coating on your cookies. This sweet glaze will add the perfect finishing touch to enhance the flavor of your fruitcake shortbread cookies. Step 10: Glaze the Cookies Once the cookies are completely cool, use a pastry brush to generously apply the glaze over each cookie. Allow the glaze to set for about 30 minutes before stacking them. This step ensures that your Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies not only look beautiful but also have a delicious coating that complements their buttery flavor. Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies: Fun Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine as you adapt these delightful cookies to suit your taste and preferences! Nuts Galore: Swap glazed fruits for chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy alternative. Their hearty texture paired with the buttery cookie will add a lovely depth. Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor that evokes holiday cheer and complements the sweetness beautifully. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a wheat-free treat that everyone can enjoy without compromising on flavor or texture. Citrus Zing: Enhance the glaze with a splash of fresh lemon or orange juice. This brightens the cookies, adding a refreshing tartness that balances their sweetness. Chocolate Lovers: Mix in some mini chocolate chips for a rich twist. The chocolate will melt slightly while baking, creating delightful pockets of gooey goodness in each bite. Dried Fruit Variation: Experiment with different dried fruits, like cranberries or apricots, for a unique flavor profile. Finely chop them to ensure even distribution throughout the dough. Minty Fresh: Incorporate a few drops of peppermint extract into the glaze for a seasonal twist that pairs wonderfully with the buttery richness of the cookies. Icing Decoration: Instead of a glaze, pipe royal icing on top after baking for a more decorative look. You can also use these cookies as a base for creative designs during holiday gatherings. If you love cookies bursting with flavor, you might also enjoy making Pistachio Cream Cookies, or perhaps it’s time to try out the unique flavors of Lemon Pistachio Cookies for your next baking adventure! Tips for the Best Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for smoother mixing and a better texture in your cookies. Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle! Chill for Success: Chilling the dough is crucial; it helps the cookies retain their shape during baking and results in a wonderful texture. Uniform Sizing: Cut your dough into uniform sizes to ensure even baking. This will keep your fruitcake shortbread cookies consistently delicious. Check for Golden Edges: Bake until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary—overbaked cookies can lose that lovely buttery quality. Glaze Wisely: Adjust the glaze to your liking; a thicker consistency works best for a beautiful finish that enhances the cookies’ flavor. How to Store and Freeze Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies Room Temperature: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their crisp edges and soft centers. Fridge: If you want to prolong their freshness, refrigerate the cookies for up to 7-10 days in an airtight container. This will help retain their delightful texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. Reheating Tips: To enjoy the cookies warmed, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes, restoring their lovely texture. Make Ahead Options These Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies are truly a lifesaver for busy bakers looking to streamline their holiday preparations! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by shaping it into squares, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerating. This not only enhances the flavors but also maintains a perfect texture. Additionally, you can create the glaze ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply cut the chilled dough into pieces and follow the baking instructions. This way, you can enjoy delicious homemade cookies with minimal effort on the day you need them! What to Serve with Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies? As the sweet aroma of baked cookies wafts through your home, think about these delightful pairings to elevate your holiday spread. Creamy Hot Chocolate: A rich, cozy drink that complements the buttery taste of fruitcake shortbread cookies, perfect for warming hearts on chilly nights. Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices of chai enhance the fruity notes in your cookies, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that beckons for more. Crispy Maple Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon contrasts brilliantly with the sweetness of the cookies, adding an intriguing savory note to your holiday treats. Light Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette: A refreshing salad provides a contrast to the rich cookies. The citrus dressing nicely balances the sweetness, making each bite feel bright and lively. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, cold ice cream pairs well with the warm cookies, creating a delightful sensory experience with each contrasting texture. Mulled Wine: The cozy spice notes of mulled wine heighten the festive spirit while perfectly accompanying the buttery richness of the fruitcake’s flavors. Buttery Shortbread: If you adore shortbread, serving traditional shortbread alongside your fruitcake cookies enriches the experience, highlighting the delightful buttery goodness. Nutty Biscotti: The crunchy texture of nutty biscotti offers a wonderful dipper for your cookies, bringing an extra layer of flavor and satisfaction. Festive Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits add a refreshing, vibrant touch that lightens the sweetness of the cookies, making for a beautifully colorful presentation. Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best fruits for my cookies? Absolutely! When selecting fruits for your Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies, look for glazed or candied options that are vibrant in color and texture. Make sure they don’t have any dark spots or excessive stickiness, which can indicate they are past their prime. If using dried fruits, chop them finely to distribute their flavor evenly throughout the cookies. What’s the best way to store my cookies after baking? Store your fruitcake shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need them to stay fresh longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 7-10 days. Wrapping them in wax paper before placing them in the container can help maintain their soft centers while keeping the crisp edges intact. Can I freeze these cookies? If so, how? Definitely! You can freeze your cookies for up to 3 months. To do this, first, allow the cookies to cool completely. Then, wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there’s no air exposure. Next, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them overnight in the fridge, and then warm them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes for that freshly baked taste. What should I do if my cookies turn out too dry? Very! If your Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies end up dry, it could be due to overmixing or baking them too long. To prevent this, always mix until just combined after adding flour. If the cookies are already baked, consider bottom moisture—try serving them with a drizzle of glaze or a scoop of ice cream for added richness. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? That’s a great question! If you’re making these cookies for someone with dietary restrictions, you may want to substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Additionally, if you’re concerned about allergies, make sure to use a powdered sugar brand that’s free from common allergens, and remember to check the ingredients in glazes or fruit for potential allergens like nuts. Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies: A Festive Twist on Tradition Enjoy these delightful Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies, a festive twist on traditional fruitcake that captures buttery goodness in every bite. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsChilling Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: CookiesCuisine: FestiveCalories: 120 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Dough1 cup Butter Room temperature1 cup Powdered Sugar Can substitute with granulated sugar1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Using pure vanilla enhances flavor2 cups All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour blends can be used1 cup Glazed Fruits Can substitute dried fruits, chopped finely1 cup Glazed CherriesFor the Glaze1 cup Powdered Sugar Sift for a smooth finish2-4 tablespoons Rum or Milk Adjust for desired consistency Equipment Stand Mixerbaking sheetsparchment paperplastic wrapWire Racks Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a stand mixer, beat 1 cup of room-temperature butter with 1 cup of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract on medium speed until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes).Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the creamed mixture on low speed until just combined.Gently fold in 1 cup each of glazed fruits and glazed cherries using a spatula or hands.Shape the dough into two squares, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 25 minutes.Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.Remove chilled dough from refrigerator, slice into strips, and cut into cookie-sized pieces.Place cut cookies on baking sheets, spacing them an inch apart, and bake for 23-25 minutes until lightly golden.Cool cookies on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.Whisk together 1 cup of sifted powdered sugar with 2-4 tablespoons of rum or milk until smooth.Once cooled, apply glaze over cookies using a pastry brush and let set for 30 minutes before stacking. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 1gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 1.5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 80mgPotassium: 30mgSugar: 8gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg NotesEnsure butter is at room temperature for smoother mixing. Chill the dough for best texture and shape retention during baking. Adjust glaze consistency to preference. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
