Ah, Christmas! It’s that magical time of year when the air is filled with the scent of pine and the sound of laughter. One of my absolute favorite holiday traditions is baking my simple Christmas cake. It’s not just about the cake—though trust me, it’s delicious! It’s about gathering with family, sharing stories, and creating memories that last a lifetime. I remember the joy in my grandmother’s eyes as she taught me how to mix the batter, her hands guiding mine. This cake is so easy to whip up, and it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. So, let’s dive in and make this festive treat together! You’re going to love it!
Ingredients for Christmas Cake Simple
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this scrumptious Christmas cake. Here’s everything you’ll need, along with a few details to make sure you get it just right.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Make sure to spoon and level it for accuracy.
- 1 cup sugar – Granulated sugar works best for that perfect sweetness.
- 1 cup unsalted butter – Softened to room temperature; it makes creaming a breeze!
- 4 large eggs – Bring these to room temperature for better mixing.
- 1 cup mixed dried fruit – I love using a mix of raisins, cranberries, and apricots, all chopped into small pieces.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – This helps the cake rise beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Pure vanilla extract adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – This gives that warm, festive aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg – For an extra layer of holiday cheer!
Having these ingredients on hand will set you up for success, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a delightful cake that everyone will adore. Happy baking!
How to Prepare Christmas Cake Simple
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s get down to the fun part—making this delightful cake! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a beautiful Christmas cake ready to impress everyone!
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly. While that’s heating up, grab your cake pan (a 9-inch round works perfectly) and grease it with a bit of unsalted butter. Then, dust it with flour, shaking out the excess. This little trick keeps your cake from sticking and makes for a clean release. Trust me, a well-prepped pan makes all the difference!
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add your softened butter and sugar. Now, here’s the fun part: use an electric mixer (or a good old-fashioned whisk, if you’re feeling adventurous!) to cream them together. You want to mix until it’s light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Don’t rush this step; it’s where the magic happens! If it looks too gritty, keep mixing. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s a pale color and super smooth.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs
Next, it’s time to add the eggs! Crack them into a bowl first—this way, you can avoid any pesky shell bits. Add them one at a time to your butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. This step is crucial because it helps incorporate air, making your cake light and fluffy. You’ll want to mix just until combined after each egg—no need to overdo it!
Step 4: Mix in Flavors
Now, pour in that lovely vanilla extract. It adds such a warm and inviting flavor to the cake—seriously, it’s like a hug in a bite! Give it a quick mix to combine everything nicely.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure everything is well mixed; this helps distribute the baking powder and spices evenly throughout the cake. It’s like giving your cake a little flavor boost!
Step 6: Blend Mixtures
Now, it’s time to marry the wet and dry mixtures! Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix—just combine everything until you see no dry flour. This will keep your cake tender and soft!
Step 7: Add Dried Fruit
Finally, fold in your mixed dried fruit gently. I love to use a combination of raisins, cranberries, and apricots for a festive touch! Just be sure to distribute them evenly throughout the batter without overworking it. You want those juicy bits in every slice!
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Pour your batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it out evenly. Now, pop it into the oven and let it bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. It’s such a rewarding moment! Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is absolutely heavenly!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Before we dive into the deliciousness of this Christmas cake, it’s important to note that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I can give you a general idea, these numbers might not be precisely accurate for your version of the cake.
On average, one slice of this delightful cake contains around 250 calories, with about 10 grams of fat, 3 grams of protein, and 38 grams of carbohydrates. You’ll also find about 15 grams of sugar and 150 milligrams of sodium in each slice. Remember, these values can change a bit depending on how you personalize your cake!
So, while you savor each bite, keep in mind that it’s all about enjoying the flavors and the memories created around your Christmas table. Happy baking and indulging!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and quick to prepare – With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a delicious cake ready in no time!
- Deliciously rich flavor – The combination of spices and dried fruit creates a wonderfully festive taste that everyone will love.
- Perfect for holiday gatherings – It’s a crowd-pleaser that adds a touch of joy to any Christmas celebration!
- Can be made in advance – Bake it a week ahead for even better flavor, freeing up your time during the busy holiday season.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Christmas cake turns out absolutely perfect, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that I swear by! These little nuggets of wisdom will help you along the way and make your baking experience even more enjoyable.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This helps them mix together more smoothly, leading to a fluffier cake. Trust me, it makes a difference!
- Don’t Overmix: When blending your dry ingredients with the wet ones, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want it light and airy. Just mix until you can’t see any more flour—easy peasy!
- Create a Flavor Boost: For an extra pop of flavor, consider soaking your dried fruit in a bit of rum or orange juice for a few hours before adding it to the batter. It adds a lovely richness and depth!
- Storage: Store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature. It actually gets better with time, so you can make it up to a week in advance! If you want to keep it longer, wrap it well and freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.
- Decorate with Love: If you want to dress up your cake, a simple dusting of powdered sugar or a light glaze can be stunning! You can also top it with fresh cranberries or a sprig of rosemary for that festive touch. Get creative!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well-equipped to bake a Christmas cake that wows everyone! Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve baked this delightful Christmas cake, let’s talk about how to serve it up for the festive season! Here are some delicious ideas that will elevate your cake and make your holiday gathering even more special:
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch. You can even sweeten it with a hint of vanilla or cinnamon to complement the cake!
- Ice Cream: Serve slices of cake warm with a scoop of vanilla or spiced ice cream. The combination of warm cake and cold ice cream is just divine!
- Fruit Compote: A tangy fruit compote made from berries or citrus fruits can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cake. It’s like a burst of holiday cheer on your plate!
- Cheese Board: Pair your cake with a selection of cheeses—think creamy brie or sharp cheddar. This savory-sweet combo is always a hit and adds a sophisticated touch to your dessert table.
- Hot Beverages: Don’t forget a warm drink to accompany your cake! A cup of spiced chai, hot chocolate, or mulled wine will create a cozy atmosphere and perfectly complement the festive flavors.
With these serving suggestions, you’ll not only showcase your delicious Christmas cake but also create a warm and inviting holiday experience for all your loved ones. Enjoy every moment of this joyful season!
FAQ Section
Can I make this Christmas cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it a week in advance for even better flavor. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature, and it’ll taste even more delicious after a few days!
What kind of dried fruit should I use?
You can use any mix of dried fruit you love! I usually go for raisins, cranberries, and apricots, but feel free to experiment with figs, dates, or even cherries for a twist. Just chop them up to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the cake.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready! If it’s wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven. Just keep an eye on it!
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes! If you want to save some for later, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before you’re ready to enjoy it. Easy peasy!
Is this Christmas cake suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is totally vegetarian-friendly! With simple ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter, it’s a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy during the festive season.
Christmas Cake Simple: 8 Steps to Holiday Joy
- Całkowity Czas: 80 minutes
- Ustępować: 12 servings 1x
- Dieta: Wegańskie
Opis
A simple and delicious Christmas cake recipe perfect for the holiday season.
Składniki
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed dried fruit
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Instrukcje
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a cake pan.
- In a bowl, cream together the butter and sugar.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and spices.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
- Fold in the dried fruit.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool before serving.
Uwagi
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can be made a week in advance for better flavor.
- Decorate with icing if desired.
- Czas Przygotowania: 20 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 60 minutes
- Kategoria: Dessert
- Sposób: Baking
- Kuchnia: American
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 slice
- Kalorie: 250
- Cukier: 15g
- Sód: 150mg
- Kwasy: 10g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 5g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 3g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 38g
- Włókno: 1g
- Białko: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Słowa kluczowe: christmas cake simple











