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–+ servings
Freezer Fruit Cake Cookies
Freezer Fruit Cake Cookies are a classic slice-and-bake treat that became popular in mid-20th century American kitchens. Designed for convenience, the dough is shaped into logs and frozen until firm, allowing home bakers to slice and bake fresh cookies whenever needed. Packed with colorful candied cherries, pineapple, raisins, and nuts, these cookies capture the festive spirit of traditional fruitcake in a lighter, more approachable form. The balance of buttery dough and sweet dried fruit creates a chewy yet tender texture, making them a nostalgic holiday favorite and a practical make-ahead dessert for gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 14 minutes
Freezing time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 34 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 60 cookies
Calories 135 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup butter (softened)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ tsp cream of tartar
  • ¾ cup candied cherries (chopped)
  • ¾ cup candied pineapple (chopped)
  • ¾ cup raisins (chopped )
  • 1½ cups nuts (chopped, walnuts or pecans)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cream the Base

  • Cream together the butter (or shortening) and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Add the egg and mix well.

Step 2: Add Dry Ingredients

  • Gradually add the flour and cream of tartar to the creamed mixture.
  • Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Fold in Fruit and Nuts

  • Gently fold in the candied cherries, pineapple, raisins, and nuts.
  • Ensure even distribution throughout the dough.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

  • Divide the dough into two portions.
  • Roll each portion into a 2-inch-wide log.

Step 5: Wrap and Freeze

  • Wrap each log tightly in wax paper.
  • Freeze until firm (about 2–3 hours).

Step 6: Slice the Cookies

  • Preheat oven to 375°F.
  • Slice the frozen dough into ¼-inch-thick rounds.

Step 7: Bake

  • Place slices on a greased baking sheet.
  • Bake 12–14 minutes or until lightly browned at the edges.

Step 8: Cool

  • Remove from oven.
  • Cool on a wire rack.

Tips

  • Substitute pecans for walnuts for a softer nut texture.
  • Add ½ tsp vanilla extract for extra flavor depth.
  • Sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking for sparkle.
  • Dip half the cookie in melted chocolate for a festive touch.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spice notes.
  • Store frozen logs up to 2 months.
  • Use parchment paper instead of greasing the sheet.
  • Chill slightly before slicing if dough softens.

Nutrition

Calories: 135kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 2gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 35mgPotassium: 85mgFiber: 1gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 12mgIron: 0.6mg
Keyword festive dessert, freezer dough, fruitcake cookies, holiday cookies, make-ahead, slice and bake, vintage baking
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