Why Make This Recipe
The Christmas Cake is a beloved holiday tradition for many families. It brings warmth, joy, and a sense of togetherness as people gather to enjoy a slice of this delicious cake. With its rich flavors from mixed fruits and sweet spices, this cake not only tastes amazing but also adds a festive touch to your holiday celebrations. Baking this cake can become a cherished family ritual, filling your home with delightful aromas and creating lasting memories.
How to Make The Christmas Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits and nuts
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla.
- Gradually add the flour mixture and milk alternately to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour.
- Fold in the dried fruits and nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving. Enjoy your holiday cake!
How to Serve The Christmas Cake
The Christmas Cake is perfect for serving during holiday gatherings. You can slice it and place it on a festive platter. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. For added delight, consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. This cake is also great for gifting, wrapped beautifully for friends and family.
How to Store The Christmas Cake
To keep your Christmas Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can also be refrigerated for longer shelf life. If you have leftovers, you might want to wrap individual slices in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever the holiday cravings hit!
Tips to Make The Christmas Cake
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming with sugar.
- If you want a richer taste, consider soaking the dried fruits in rum or orange juice a day before baking.
- Always check the cake a few minutes before the time is up; oven temperatures can vary.
Variation
You can customize your Christmas Cake by using different dried fruits or nuts according to your preference. Dried cranberries, apricots, or almonds can be delightful substitutes. Spice it up further by adding zests of orange or lemon for an extra zing.
FAQs
1. Can I make The Christmas Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a few days ahead of the holiday. It actually tastes better after sitting for a day or two as the flavors meld.
2. Is The Christmas Cake suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months.
3. Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. Just keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly.
Christmas Cake
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure it is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
Add-ins
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits and nuts You can substitute with your choice of dried fruits or nuts.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla.
- Gradually add the flour mixture and milk alternately to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour.
- Fold in the dried fruits and nuts.
Baking
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.
