Christmas is the perfect time to indulge in a rich, flavorful cake that captures the spirit of the season. This Christmas Cake recipe is a classic holiday treat, featuring a moist, spiced cake filled with dried fruits, nuts, and a splash of brandy or orange juice for extra richness. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking to enjoy a special dessert with your family, this cake offers a wonderful blend of flavors and textures. With its festive decorations and robust taste, it’s sure to be a centerpiece on your holiday table.
Ingredients for Christmas Cake
- For the Cake:
- 1 cup (240ml) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (220g) packed light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup (150g) mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped dates)
- 1 cup (120g) chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- 1/2 cup (80g) candied citrus peel
- 1/2 cup (120ml) brandy or orange juice
- 1/4 cup (60ml) honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Icing:
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk (more if needed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For Decoration:
- Marzipan (optional)
- Royal icing or fondant (optional)
- Fresh holly or other seasonal decorations (for garnish)
How to Make Christmas Cake
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round or 8×8-inch square cake pan with parchment paper. You may also use a springform pan for easy removal.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process should take about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add the Eggs:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the brandy or orange juice. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
- Fold in the Fruits and Nuts:
- Gently fold in the mixed dried fruits, chopped nuts, and candied citrus peel until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour and Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Cool the Cake:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Icing:
- While the cake is cooling, make the icing. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add the milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Continue to beat until the icing is fluffy and spreadable. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if necessary.
- Ice and Decorate:
- Once the cake is completely cooled, spread a thin layer of icing over the cake to create a smooth base. If using marzipan, roll it out and place it over the cake before applying the icing. Decorate with royal icing or fondant as desired. Garnish with fresh holly or other seasonal decorations.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve the cake. It can be enjoyed immediately or stored in an airtight container for several days. The flavors will continue to develop as the cake sits.
About the Main Ingredients
- Butter: Unsalted butter provides a rich flavor and tender crumb to the cake. It should be softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Sugars: Granulated sugar and brown sugar sweeten the cake and contribute to its moist texture. Brown sugar adds a subtle caramel flavor.
- Eggs: Eggs act as a binder and help the cake rise. They also contribute to the cake’s texture and richness.
- Flour and Leavening Agents: All-purpose flour provides structure, while baking powder and baking soda help the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
- Spices: Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves give the cake its characteristic warm, festive flavor.
- Dried Fruits and Nuts: These ingredients add texture and flavor, with a combination of sweet and savory notes. They also contribute to the cake’s richness.
- Brandy or Orange Juice: Brandy adds depth and complexity, while orange juice offers a bright, citrusy note. Both help to keep the cake moist.
- Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps to keep the cake moist and tender.
- Icing Ingredients: Butter, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract are used to create a smooth and flavorful icing that enhances the cake’s appearance and taste.
This Christmas Cake recipe is a delightful blend of traditional flavors and festive decorations, making it a perfect addition to your holiday celebrations. Enjoy the process of baking and decorating, and savor the delicious results with your loved ones.
