GLAZED FRUITCAKE DROPS (Helen McGreevey)

OUR 2009 KILLER CHRISTMAS COOKIE WINNER!

1/2 cup butter

3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup + 1/2 cup flour
1cup golden raisins
1cup chopped, pitted dates
1cup dried cranberries
1cup walnuts, chopped
1/2 cup butter
3 eggs
1teaspoon vanilla
1tablespoon brandy
1teaspoon oranges zest
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cardamom
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

In a separate bowl, toss fruit with 1/2 cup flour to coat.

Cream together butter and sugar. Beat in eggs [one at a time], then vanilla and brandy. Add zests. Whisk together dry ingredients and spices, then mix into the wet. Stir in fruit and nuts.

Drop spoonfuls onto parchment paper and bake in a pre-heated 325 degree oven for 15 minutes.

Remove cookies promptly to cooling racks. When cookies are still warm, brush lightly with glaze.

GLAZE: Stir together 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons brandy.