How to Make the Most Delicious Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies for the Holidays

Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies are the kind of treat that instantly evokes holiday cheer. With their buttery base, jeweled bits of candied fruit, and delicate sugar glaze, these cookies strike the perfect balance between nostalgia and indulgence. Unlike traditional fruitcake, which often sparks debate at holiday tables, these cookies are universally loved—bite-sized, festive, and incredibly easy to make.

At Cooking Flash, our mission is rooted in transforming simple ingredients into unforgettable experiences. These cookies hold a special place in our kitchen legacy. They were born from experimenting with classic holiday flavors in a form that feels fresh, fun, and shareable. What started as a family recipe quickly became one of our most requested holiday bakes—and now, we’re passing it on to you.

Whether you’re prepping for a cookie swap, gifting homemade treats, or simply craving something cozy and colorful, this guide will walk you through every step. You’ll learn not only how to bake them, but also how to glaze them perfectly, customize with flair, and store them for long-lasting holiday joy.

Discover great ideas like our Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon while you’re here!

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The Sweet Fusion of Glazed Fruitcake and Shortbread

What Makes Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies So Unique?

Shortbread is celebrated for its buttery simplicity, but add a fruitcake twist and suddenly you’ve got a symphony of textures and flavors. These cookies aren’t just sweet—they’re rich, colorful, and slightly tangy thanks to the glazed fruits and cherries that define holiday baking. Each bite carries fruity pops of flavor that contrast perfectly with the mild vanilla base.

How This Recipe Evolved into a Holiday Tradition

Our Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies originated from a mash-up of two beloved holiday treats: traditional Scottish shortbread and old-fashioned fruitcake. The original version was handed down through generations and refined in our kitchens at Cooking Flash. Over time, we swapped dense cake for cookie form, creating a treat that was both festive and more approachable. Now, they’re a December must-have, appearing at cookie exchanges, holiday platters, and even wedding tables.

The Essential Ingredients Behind the Flavor

Let’s break down what makes this cookie dough so magical:

• Butter (1 cup): It’s the base. Always go unsalted for control over the taste.
• Powdered sugar (¾ cup): Adds sweetness without grittiness.
• Vanilla extract (½ tsp): A warm, floral note that enhances everything else.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups): The sturdy foundation. Don’t overmix it.
• Glazed fruits & cherries (1 cup): These bring color and tang.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Peanut Butter Buckeye Cookies —another holiday gem that melts hearts.

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Step-by-Step Baking Instructions for Perfect Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

How to Mix the Dough Without Overworking It

The key to the melt-in-your-mouth texture of shortbread is handling the dough gently. Start by creaming together 1 cup of unsalted butter, ¾ cup of powdered sugar, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. This mixture should be fluffy, but not runny. Then, slowly incorporate 2 cups of all-purpose flour just until the dough comes together. Don’t beat it—stir until combined. Over-mixing creates toughness, and that’s the opposite of what we want here.

Once the dough forms, gently fold in 1 cup of chopped glazed fruits and cherries. Using clean hands works best. Knead lightly just enough to evenly distribute the fruit. The dough should feel soft but not sticky.

How to Shape and Chill the Dough for Best Results

Divide the dough into two even pieces. Shape each into a 7-inch square—don’t worry about perfection. The easiest way to do this is between two sheets of plastic wrap. Once shaped, wrap tightly and refrigerate for 25 minutes. This step is crucial. Chilled dough is easier to slice, and it holds its shape during baking.

Chilling also helps enhance flavor as the butter firms up again, leading to a cookie that doesn’t spread too much and retains a rich texture.

How to Slice and Bake the Cookies Like a Pro

Once chilled, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Unwrap the dough and cut it into 1¾” wide strips, then slice each strip into three to four pieces (roughly 2 inches long). A pizza cutter is perfect for this job—quick, clean, and efficient. Otherwise, use a sharp kitchen knife.

Place the cookies an inch apart and bake for 23–25 minutes or until the edges just begin to turn golden. Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. They’ll firm up as they cool.

How to Make the Perfect Glaze

For the finishing touch, whisk together:

• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons of milk or rum

Adjust with a touch more liquid or sugar until you get a brushable consistency. Once the cookies are fully cooled, brush the glaze on top and let it set. It will harden quickly, giving your cookies a delicate sheen without being sticky.

Don’t miss our Almond Flour Lemon Cookies for a tangy alternative to your holiday tray.

Fun Variations and Smart Storage for Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

Easy Flavor Twists to Elevate Your Shortbread

Once you’ve mastered the base recipe for Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies, you can start to experiment with flavor upgrades to make each batch your own. Here are a few creative twists:

• Citrus Zest Boost: Add 1 tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a bright, tangy note that balances the sweetness of the glazed fruits.
• Spiced Warmth: Mix ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the flour for a cozy, spiced version perfect for winter gatherings.
• Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts with the fruit to add crunch and complexity.
• Boozy Upgrade: Soak your candied fruit in rum or brandy overnight for a richer, more adult flavor profile.
• Chocolate Dip: After glazing and drying, dip half of each cookie into melted white or dark chocolate for a beautiful and indulgent finish.

Shortbread is incredibly forgiving, so feel free to get creative while staying true to its buttery core.

How to Store Glazed Shortbread Cookies for Long-Lasting Freshness

Proper storage is essential if you want to enjoy your Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies well beyond baking day. Here’s how to keep them tasting fresh:

Storage Method	Container	Shelf Life	Notes
Room Temperature	Airtight container	7–10 days	Layer with wax paper to prevent sticking
Refrigerator	Sealed container	Up to 2 weeks	Best for hot climates
Freezer (unfrosted)	Freezer-safe bag/container	2–3 months	Freeze without glaze, then decorate later
Freezer (glazed)	Wax-paper-lined container	1–2 months	Freeze individually, stack with care

When freezing, place parchment or wax paper between layers to avoid damage. Let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Tips for Gift Giving and Holiday Hosting

These cookies aren’t just tasty—they’re presentation-ready. Here’s how to package them like a pro:

• Stack in holiday tins lined with parchment
• Wrap in clear cellophane with festive ribbon
• Add to a variety cookie tray for holiday parties

They’re sturdy enough to ship and attractive enough for gifts, making them the perfect all-in-one seasonal solution.

Looking for another giftable treat? Try our Peanut Butter Buckeye Cookies —a chocolate-dipped favorite that ships beautifully.

Nutritional Overview and Simple Ingredient Swaps for Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

What’s Inside These Sweet Holiday Bites?

Let’s be real—Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies are a treat, not a salad. But knowing what you’re biting into can help you enjoy them guilt-free and even make small tweaks to fit your lifestyle. On average, each cookie (around 2 inches) contains:

Nutrient	Estimated Amount
Calories	160–185
Total Fat	9g
Saturated Fat	5g
Carbohydrates	20g
Sugars	11g
Protein	1g
Fiber	0.5g

These numbers may vary slightly based on how much glaze you use or the type of fruit included—but they give a solid baseline. The good news? These cookies are rich enough that a little goes a long way.

Easy Ingredient Swaps for Dietary Restrictions

You don’t have to skip holiday cookies because of allergies or preferences. These adaptable shortbread cookies can be customized for different diets without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Going Gluten-Free?

No problem! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix designed for 1:1 baking. These blends usually contain xanthan gum, which helps maintain that buttery shortbread bite. Just remember to:

• Chill the dough 10–15 minutes longer for structure
• Slice with a very sharp knife to avoid crumbling

Need a Dairy-Free Version?

Butter is essential to shortbread, but there are great plant-based options available. Choose a dairy-free butter alternative with a high fat content for the best results.

• For the glaze, simply replace milk with almond, soy, or oat milk.
• Stick to vegan butter brands that come in sticks, not tubs, to keep the texture on point.

Lowering Sugar? Here’s How

Looking to reduce sugar? You’ve got options:

• Use ½ cup powdered sugar in the dough instead of ¾ cup.
• Switch to a sugar substitute like powdered erythritol for both the dough and glaze.
• Choose low-sugar or naturally sweet dried fruit instead of heavily candied mixes.

Vegan-Friendly Adjustments

Good news—this cookie dough is naturally egg-free, which makes veganizing it incredibly easy.

• Swap out regular butter for a plant-based version.
• Use a splash of vanilla almond milk in the glaze instead of dairy.

Smart Tips for Health-Conscious Bakers

Want to enjoy these cookies without overindulging? Try this:

• Bake half the dough and freeze the rest.
• Portion cookies into smaller bites.
• Store them in single-layer packs to avoid late-night snacking splurges.

Cookies like these freeze beautifully. You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake only what you need. It’s the perfect balance between treat-yourself and stay-on-track.

Discover great ideas like our Peanut Butter Buckeye Cookies if you’re looking for more adaptable holiday desserts.

Visual Guide to Making Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies from Scratch

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients FOR Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

Before you turn on the oven, make sure everything’s measured and ready to go. Here’s your mise en place:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ¾ cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup glazed fruit and cherries (chopped)
• Glaze: ¾ cup powdered sugar + 2 tablespoons milk or rum

Pro Tip: Chop the glazed fruit into small, even pieces so they don’t overpower the delicate shortbread texture.

Step 2: Cream the Butter, Sugar & Vanilla FOR Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until pale and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes. Add in the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.

Why this matters: Creaming traps air, giving your cookies that tender, crumbly texture shortbread is known for.

Step 3: Add the Flour Gently FOR Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

Gradually mix in the flour, one half at a time. Switch to a wooden spoon or spatula for the final mix. The dough will come together as a soft mass—don’t overwork it.

Pro Tip: Over-mixing develops gluten, which leads to tough cookies. Stop as soon as no dry flour remains.

Step 4: Fold in Glazed Fruit FOR Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

Add your chopped glazed fruits and cherries. Mix them in gently using your hands. The goal is even distribution without mashing or over-mixing.

Baker’s Shortcut: Dust the fruit with a bit of flour before adding it—this keeps it from clumping and sinking.

Step 5: Shape, Wrap & Chill the Dough FOR Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each into a 7-inch square using plastic wrap and your hands. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 25 minutes.

Pro Tip: Chilling helps the butter firm up, making the cookies easier to slice and bake without spreading.

Step 6: Slice into Cookie Bars FOR Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

Once chilled, unwrap the dough. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut it into 1¾” strips. Then cut each strip into 2-inch bars. Try to keep sizes consistent so they bake evenly.

Perfect cuts = perfect bakes. A bench scraper can also work wonders here.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Edges FOR Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake at 325°F for 23–25 minutes, or until the bottoms and edges are lightly golden.

Pro Tip: If you’re baking in batches, return unused dough to the fridge between rounds.

Step 8: Glaze While Cool FOR Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

Mix your glaze ingredients (milk or rum + powdered sugar) until smooth. Use a pastry brush to apply a light coat to each cookie. Let the glaze dry for about 1 hour.

Want extra shine? Brush a second thin layer after the first has set.

Check out our Chocolate Toffee Pecan Brittle if you’re craving another recipe with a sweet crunch twist.

Creative Ways to Present and Gift Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

Serving These Cookies in Style

Once your Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies are baked and glazed to perfection, it’s time to let them shine. These cookies are already a visual treat with their glossy tops and jewel-toned fruit pieces—but how you display them can make them even more irresistible.

Try these ideas to make your cookie platter pop:

• Elegant simplicity: Arrange cookies in neat rows on a white ceramic platter. The clean background highlights the bright fruit.
• Seasonal flair: Garnish your tray with edible holiday accents like sugared cranberries, orange zest curls, or sprigs of rosemary.
• Height and layers: Use tiered stands to create a bakery-style presentation. Elevation always adds visual appeal to dessert tables.

Entertaining tip: Serve with hot cocoa, chai tea, or mulled wine to bring out the warm, buttery tones of the shortbread.

Unique Gift Packaging Ideas for Holiday Cookies

Want to turn your cookies into thoughtful holiday gifts? Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies are a perfect candidate for festive packaging thanks to their sturdy texture and beautiful appearance. Here are some standout ways to wrap and deliver them:

✓ Festive Tins

Pick up decorative tins in metallic or printed finishes. Line the inside with wax paper and layer the cookies gently, separating each layer to protect the glaze. Add a ribbon and label for the finishing touch.

✓ See-Through Cellophane

For quick, budget-friendly gifting, place a few cookies in a clear bag, tie it with colored twine or raffia, and attach a recipe card or holiday note.

✓ Mason Jars or Clamp-Lid Jars

Wide-mouth jars work beautifully for shortbread cookies. Stack them carefully inside, seal the lid, and wrap a tag around the neck of the jar for a rustic, homemade look.

✓ Custom Treat Boxes

You can find bakery-style boxes online or at craft stores. Fold, line with parchment, and load up with cookies in single or double layers. Personalize the outside with holiday stamps, printed stickers, or handwritten messages.

Want to pair this with another edible gift? Take a look at our Chocolate Toffee Pecan Brittle —a crunchy classic that travels well and pairs perfectly with shortbread.

Storing for Future Gifting

If you’re baking ahead for the season, storing cookies the right way keeps them fresh and flavorful when it’s time to share them.

Storage Method	How to Do It Right
Airtight Containers	Use metal tins or plastic tubs with tight-fitting lids
Layering Strategy	Insert parchment or wax paper between rows of cookies
Ideal Environment	Store at room temp, away from heat and sunlight
Freezer Friendly	Freeze wrapped cookies for up to 2 months, unglazed is best

Helpful hint: If freezing, wait to apply the glaze until after thawing to preserve shine and texture.

The Best Ways to Serve and Pair Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies for Any Occasion

When Should You Serve Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies?

While these cookies are often associated with the holiday season, Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies are so versatile, they deserve a place at your table all year long. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture, bright fruit pieces, and delicate glaze, they work in countless settings—from casual to elegant.

Here are some perfect times to bring them out:

• Holiday get-togethers: Add them to your Christmas cookie lineup or New Year dessert table.
• Bridal or baby showers: Their charming look and easy-to-eat size make them a delightful addition.
• Afternoon coffee breaks: One or two cookies alongside your favorite hot drink is pure comfort.
• Thank-you gifts: They pack and ship beautifully, making them ideal for client or hostess gifts.
• Weekend brunch boards: They fit right in with muffins, scones, and fruit for a sweet touch.

Hosting Tip: Place them in decorative bowls at various corners of your table to create an interactive, relaxed dessert experience.

What Drinks Pair Nicely With These Cookies?

The buttery base and fruity glaze in Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies call for beverages that either balance or highlight those flavors. Whether you’re entertaining or simply treating yourself, these drink pairings work beautifully:

Beverage	Pairing Purpose
Classic Black Tea	Enhances subtle sweetness and buttery notes
Sparkling Wine	Cuts through richness, elevating fruity hints
Vanilla Latte	Adds warmth and creaminess to complement the cookie texture
Spiced Cider	Boosts the holiday feel with cinnamon and apple undertones
Dry White Wine	Offers balance with a crisp, clean finish
Cold Brew Coffee	Contrasts the sweetness while keeping things light and bold

Entertaining idea: Create a cookie and beverage tasting menu for your next party—pair different cookies with different drinks for an interactive dessert hour.

What Food Items Go Well on a Dessert Board with Shortbread Cookies?

If you’re building a festive platter or dessert grazing board, Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies make a perfect anchor item. Their elegant look and balanced flavor blend well with many sweet and savory items.

Try surrounding them with:

• White chocolate bark or dark chocolate squares
• Candied nuts or spiced pecans
• Mini lemon bars for a zesty contrast
• Fresh berries or dried figs and apricots
• Creamy cheeses like mascarpone or brie for a sophisticated pairing
• Coconut macaroons or almond cookies for variety in texture

Want another texture-rich treat? Try our Chocolate Toffee Pecan Brittle as a crunchy companion to your cookie board.

When Less Is More

These cookies also shine as stand-alone stars. Serve them on a small plate with a sprig of mint or rosemary, a slice of orange, and a warm drink—no fuss, just flavor.

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Final Thoughts on Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies

There’s something truly timeless about the buttery, crumbly magic of shortbread—especially when it’s enhanced with sweet glazed fruits and a delicate sugar glaze. Glazed Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies combine the richness of tradition with the cheerful touch of holiday color, making them the ultimate festive treat. Whether you’re baking for a crowd, gifting to friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers flavor, beauty, and long-lasting joy.

Looking for inspiration? Try these Cooking Flash favorites:

• Discover great ideas like Applesauce Cake with Cinnamon
• Don’t miss our Chocolate Toffee Pecan Brittle
• Check out Peanut Butter Buckeye Cookies
• Looking for inspiration? Try Almond Flour Lemon Cookie
• Pair with lemon-based treats like this zesty Lemon Blueberry Crumble Cheesecake for a vibrant flavor contrast.