A classic, large-batch recipe for fruitcake-style drop cookies from Melinda. This buttery, spiced dough is packed with dates and candied fruit, making it perfect for holiday baking and gift-giving.

Author

Melinda


Recipe

MeasurementsIngredients
2 Cups (4 sticks)Butter, softened
3 CupsWhite Sugar
4Eggs
5 CupsFlour
2 TeaspoonsSalt
2 TeaspoonsBaking Soda
2 TeaspoonsCinnamon
1 to 2 PoundsDates, chopped
1/2 CupCandied Pineapple (red or green)
1/2 CupCandied Cherries

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. In a very large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
  4. In a separate large bowl, sift together the flour, salt, soda, and cinnamon.
  5. In another bowl, toss the chopped dates, candied pineapple, and candied cherries with about ½ cup of the flour mixture until well coated.
  6. On low speed, gradually add the remaining dry ingredients to the creamed mixture until a very stiff dough forms.
  7. By hand, stir in the floured fruit until it is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  8. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.

Note

This is a very large recipe that “serves an army.” The author notes you can halve the recipe for a more standard amount.