Bake These Panettone Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies for a Festive Feast

Looking for a festive and flavorful treat that fits perfectly into your Weight Watchers plan? These Panettone Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies combine the rich, buttery texture of shortbread with the fruity, spiced notes of classic panettone. Perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or a sweet snack, these cookies are as delightful as they are guilt-free!

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free alternative)
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1/2 cup light butter (softened)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup dried mixed fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, or candied orange peel, chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Optional glaze: 2 tablespoons powdered sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon milk

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Cream the Butter and Vanilla

1. In a separate large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the light butter and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
2. Fold in the chopped dried mixed fruit to evenly distribute throughout the dough.

Shape the Cookies

1. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one. Flatten slightly with the back of a fork or your fingers.

Bake to Perfection

1. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
2. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Glaze

1. If desired, drizzle the cookies with a simple glaze made by mixing powdered sugar and milk. This adds a festive touch without too many extra points!

Nutritional Information

(Per Cookie)

• Calories: ~65
• Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• WW Points: ~2

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Holiday Flavor: The combination of dried fruits and warm spices makes these cookies a perfect holiday treat, reminiscent of classic panettone.
2. Low in Points: With just 2 WW Points per cookie, you can enjoy a few without guilt.
3. Quick and Easy: These cookies are simple to make and don’t require chilling, so you can whip them up in no time.
4. Customizable: You can swap out the dried fruits for your favorites or even add a hint of citrus zest for extra flavor.

Tips for Success

• Use Quality Butter: Light butter works well for this recipe, but ensure it’s softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Don’t Overbake: These cookies are meant to be soft and tender, so remove them from the oven as soon as the edges begin to turn golden.
• Customize the Fruit: Feel free to use your favorite dried fruits, such as chopped apricots, figs, or cherries.
• For a More Festive Look: Sprinkle the cookies with a tiny bit of powdered sugar after cooling for a snow-dusted appearance.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Hot Drink: Pair these cookies with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for a comforting winter treat.
• As a Gift: Package them in a festive tin or box for a thoughtful, homemade holiday gift.
• Dessert Platter: Include these cookies on a holiday dessert table alongside other lightened-up treats.

These Panettone Fruitcake Shortbread Cookies are a delightful blend of festive flavors and buttery shortbread goodness. Whether you’re indulging in a few during the holidays or sharing them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring joy and satisfaction. Enjoy the taste of the season while staying on track with your health goals!