Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until the mixture is well-combined.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is just combined; avoid over-mixing.

Step 3: Fold in the Fruit and Nuts

1. Gently fold in the chopped pecans (or walnuts), candied cherries, candied pineapple, golden raisins, and chopped dates.
2. Stir the dough until the fruit and nuts are evenly dispersed throughout. The dough will be thick and chunky due to the generous amounts of fruit and nuts.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Drop the dough by rounded tablespoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet. Be sure to space them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still be soft and slightly underbaked.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheet.
2. Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, serve and enjoy the delightful blend of holiday flavors!