Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that brings holiday cheer any time of the year. With their buttery shortbread base and sweet candied fruit, these cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family. The addition of a simple glaze adds a touch of sweetness that makes them even more special.

Why Make This Recipe

You should make Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies because they combine the classic taste of shortbread with a festive twist. These cookies are easy to make and only require simple ingredients. Whether you want to enjoy them with a cup of tea or share them at a gathering, these cookies are sure to impress.

How to Make Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup candied fruit mix, chopped finely
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1-2 tablespoons milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Mix in the almond extract.
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the finely chopped candied fruit mix to distribute it evenly throughout the dough.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Flatten each ball gently with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cookies and let it set before serving.

How to Serve Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

Serve these cookies on a platter at a party or keep them in a jar for a simple snack. They go well with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. You can also decorate them with festive sprinkles if you want to make them even more special!

How to Store Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about one week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months.

Tips to Make Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
Use different candied fruits to change up the flavor.
Don’t over-bake the cookies; they should be lightly golden on the edges for the best texture.

Variation

You can add nuts, such as chopped walnuts or pecans, to the cookie dough for extra crunch. Additionally, consider using dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a different taste and texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the added salt in the recipe.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to two days before baking.

3. What can I substitute for almond extract?
If you don’t have almond extract, you can use vanilla extract instead for a slightly different flavor.

Enjoy making and sharing these Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies with everyone you love!