Decadent Chewy Fruitcake Cookies: A Holiday Treat You’ll Love

Transform the nostalgic flavors of holiday fruitcake into a lighter, chewy, and utterly irresistible cookie that everyone will love! These Decadent Chewy Fruitcake Cookies are bursting with dried fruit, warm spices, and a hint of citrus for a festive treat that’s both wholesome and indulgent. Perfect for cookie swaps, holiday gatherings, or a cozy treat, these cookies prove that tradition and wellness can go hand-in-hand. A guilt-free way to celebrate the season!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Weight Watchers-Friendly: 2 SmartPoints® per cookie (Blue Plan).
• Chewy, Festive Bliss: Packed with dried fruit and spices for holiday nostalgia.
• Quick & Simple: Ready in 25 minutes with pantry staples.
• Customizable: Swap fruits, nuts, or spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients 

• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or gluten-free 1:1 flour)
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp allspice
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (replaces butter/oil)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar substitute (e.g., Swerve)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar substitute (e.g., Swerve Brown)
• 1 large egg (or 2 egg whites)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 1/2 cup mixed dried fruit (e.g., cranberries, raisins, chopped apricots)
• 2 tbsp chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, +1 SmartPoint® per cookie)
• Cooking spray

Instructions

Prep the Oven:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.

Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat applesauce, sugar substitutes, egg, vanilla, and orange zest until smooth.

Form the Dough:
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Fold in dried fruit and nuts (if using).

Scoop & Bake:
Drop tablespoon-sized dough balls onto the baking sheet. Bake 10–12 minutes until edges are golden (centers stay soft).

Cool & Enjoy:
Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Nutrition & SmartPoints®

Per cookie (without nuts):

• Calories: 50
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Fat: 1g
• SmartPoints®: 2 (Blue Plan)

Points may vary with added nuts or substitutions.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Platter: Pair with zero-point spiced tea or black coffee.
• Gift Jars: Layer cookies in mason jars with festive ribbon for a thoughtful treat.
• Dessert Charcuterie: Serve with dark chocolate squares (1–2 SmartPoints®) and fresh clementines.

Pro Tips

• Plump the Fruit: Soak dried fruit in warm water or orange juice for 10 minutes before baking.
• Citrus Twist: Add 1 tsp lemon zest for extra brightness.
• Vegan Option: Use flax eggs and vegan sugar substitutes.
• Freeze Dough: Store unbaked cookie balls in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute with almond flour (adjust points).

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Loss

• Fiber-Rich: Whole wheat flour and dried fruit aid digestion and keep you full.
• Natural Sweetness: Dried fruit and citrus zest reduce the need for added sugar.
• Portion Control: Pre-portioned cookies curb holiday overindulgence.

These Decadent Chewy Fruitcake Cookies are a celebration of holiday tradition and smart eating. With their chewy texture, warm spices, and bursts of fruity sweetness, they’re a treat that feels indulgent but fits seamlessly into your wellness journey. Bake a batch for your next gathering, package them as edible gifts, or savor them with a cup of tea—knowing you’re nourishing your body and your festive spirit.