Decadent Chewy Fruitcake Cookies

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### Instructions

1. **Optional: Soak the Dried Fruit**
For an extra burst of flavor, soak the dried fruits and candied peel in rum or orange juice for 15-30 minutes. Drain any excess liquid before using.

2. **Prepare the Dough**
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.

3. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

4. **Fold in Fruits and Nuts**
Gently fold the chopped dried fruits, nuts, and candied peel into the dough, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.

5. **Chill the Dough**
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to make it easier to handle and enhance the flavors.

6. **Bake the Cookies**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

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### Tips for Success

– **Customize the Fruits and Nuts**: Mix and match your favorite dried fruits and nuts for a personalized touch.
– **For a Crispier Texture**: Bake the cookies a bit longer, around 12-14 minutes, until the edges are golden brown.
– **Add a Glaze**: Drizzle the cookies with a simple powdered sugar glaze for a decorative and sweet finishing touch.

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### Storage and Gifting

– **Storage**: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.
– **Gifting**: Layer the cookies with parchment paper in a decorative tin or wrap them in cellophane bags tied with a festive ribbon.

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### A New Holiday Favorite

These **Decadent Chewy Fruitcake Cookies** are a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of fruitcake in a modern, approachable form. They’re perfect for cookie swaps, holiday parties, or a cozy treat with a cup of tea. One bite, and you’ll understand why this recipe deserves a spot in your holiday baking tradition.

Give these cookies a try, and watch them disappear from the cookie platter in no time!