There’s something special about the holidays that calls for sweet treats made with love and tradition. These Heirloom Holiday Fruit Drops perfectly capture the essence of the season with their delightful blend of flavors and festive look. Packed with dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, these cookies are sure to become a beloved addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a gathering or simply want a cozy treat to enjoy with your favorite cup of tea, these Heirloom Holiday Fruit Drops are the perfect choice!
**Heirloom Holiday Fruit Drops**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1 cup golden raisins
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the dried cranberries, chopped apricots, golden raisins, and chopped walnuts. Set aside.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
5. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
7. Gently fold in the dried fruit and nut mixture until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
8. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These Heirloom Holiday Fruit Drops are a delightful combination of chewy dried fruits, crunchy nuts, and a perfect balance of warm spices. You can enjoy them fresh out of the oven with a glass of milk or a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy holiday treat. They also make a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family or a lovely addition to your dessert table during festive gatherings. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to fill your home with the warmth and aroma of holiday baking with these delicious fruit drop cookies!
