Ah, Christmas high tea! It’s one of my absolute favorite traditions during the holiday season. Imagine gathering around a beautifully set table, surrounded by loved ones, while the air is filled with the delightful scent of freshly baked treats. There’s something so magical about indulging in a variety of festive goodies—each bite bursting with flavor and joy. From sweet pastries to savory delights, this high tea experience is all about celebrating the season with delicious flavors that warm your heart.
Trust me, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of sharing these homemade treats with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or just treating yourself to a little festive cheer, this Christmas high tea is bound to impress. So, let’s dive into the recipe and whip up some scrumptious delights that will make your holiday celebrations even more special!
Ingredients List
Before we get started, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this lovely Christmas high tea treat. Having everything ready makes the process so much smoother and more enjoyable! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (I love using walnuts or pecans for a lovely crunch!)
Feel free to adjust the sugar level to your taste. If you like it a bit sweeter, go ahead and add a touch more! And don’t forget, you can always mix in some seasonal fruits for garnish when serving. The more festive, the better! Now, let’s get baking!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this delightful Christmas high tea treat. I promise, it’s easier than it looks! Just follow along, and you’ll have a gorgeous cake in no time.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully. So, while you’re prepping your ingredients, let that oven warm up!
Cream Butter and Sugar
Next, grab a large mixing bowl and cream together your softened butter and granulated sugar. You’re looking for a light and fluffy texture here, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes of mixing. Trust me, this step is key to getting the right moisture and richness in your cake. The mixture should look pale and airy, almost like a sweet cloud!
Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Now, it’s time to add the eggs! Crack them in one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures they’re fully incorporated and helps create that lovely, smooth batter. Don’t forget to add the vanilla extract in this step for a hint of warm flavor. The aroma will make you want to dive right in!
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and milk. Mix them together until just combined—this is crucial! If you overmix, your cake might turn out a little dense. We want it light and fluffy, so be gentle!
Fold in Cranberries and Nuts
Here comes the fun part! Gently fold in your dried cranberries and chopped nuts into the batter. Use a spatula for this, and make sure to do it lightly to keep that wonderful airy texture we’ve worked so hard for. It’s like tucking in a cozy blanket—be gentle, but make sure everything’s nicely mixed!
Bake the Mixture
Pour that beautiful batter into a greased baking pan and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, but here’s a little secret: start checking around the 30-minute mark. Insert a toothpick in the center, and if it comes out clean, you’re golden! If there’s still batter on the toothpick, give it a few more minutes.
Cooling and Serving
Once baked to perfection, let your cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling time is essential to help it set and makes it easier to slice. Once it’s completely cool, slice it up and serve it with your favorite tea. Trust me, this cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup, and your guests will be raving about it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Christmas high tea recipe is just bursting with festive cheer, and I can’t wait for you to experience it! First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for both seasoned bakers and those who are just getting their feet wet in the kitchen. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip up this delightful treat!
The flavors are simply divine! The combination of sweet cranberries and crunchy nuts creates a lovely contrast that you can’t resist. Plus, the comforting aroma of vanilla and butter as it bakes will have everyone gathered in the kitchen, eagerly anticipating that first slice. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
And let’s not forget how perfect this cake is for gatherings! Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon tea with friends, this treat will steal the show. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece that sparks joy and conversation around the table. Everyone will want to know your secret!
So, whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring a slice for yourself, this Christmas high tea treat is sure to become a cherished holiday tradition. Trust me, once you make it, you’ll look forward to indulging in it year after year!
Tips for Success
Now that you’re all set to create this delightful Christmas high tea treat, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure your baking adventure is a total success! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference.
- Check Your Baking Powder: Freshness is key! Always check the expiration date on your baking powder before you begin. If it’s been sitting in your pantry for a while, do a quick test: mix a teaspoon of baking powder with a bit of hot water. If it bubbles up vigorously, you’re good to go! If not, it’s time to get a new one.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Everyone’s taste buds are different, so don’t hesitate to tweak the sugar level to suit your preferences. If you like your treats on the sweeter side, add a bit more sugar. Just remember that too much can affect the texture, so make adjustments gradually!
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before you start. This helps them combine better and contributes to that lovely, fluffy texture we’re after. Just take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your dry ingredients with the wet mixture, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light, airy delight you want. Mix until just combined and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful texture.
- Cooling Time is Crucial: Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to cooling your cake. Allowing it to cool properly in the pan and then on a wire rack ensures it slices cleanly and holds its shape. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to play around with the dried fruits and nuts! If cranberries aren’t your thing, try raisins, apricots, or even chocolate chips for a fun twist. Mixing things up can lead to delicious discoveries!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set for a fantastic holiday baking experience! Enjoy every moment, and get ready to share your scrumptious creation with friends and family!
Nutritional Information Section
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this delightful Christmas high tea treat! Each slice is a balance of flavors and ingredients that make it a wonderful addition to your holiday celebrations. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect per slice:
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. If you’re watching your diet or have specific dietary needs, feel free to adjust the recipe accordingly. I always say, the best part of cooking at home is being able to make it your own!
FAQ Section
Got questions? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I get about this delightful Christmas high tea treat, along with my answers to help you navigate your baking journey.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Just make sure it’s completely cool before wrapping it up!
How should I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), store them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well for about 3-4 days at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it, but be sure to let it come back to room temperature before serving for the best taste!
Can I freeze this cake?
You bet! This cake freezes beautifully. Just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, just thaw them out in the refrigerator overnight!
What are some variations I can try?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can swap out the cranberries for other dried fruits like raisins or apricots. Toss in some chocolate chips for a richer treat, or even add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor. Feel free to get creative!
What kind of tea pairs well with this cake?
This cake is super versatile and pairs wonderfully with many types of tea! I personally love a nice Earl Grey or a classic English Breakfast tea. If you’re feeling festive, try a spiced chai for a delightful combination that echoes the flavors of the cake!
Can I add frosting or glaze?
Of course! A light drizzle of lemon glaze or a cream cheese frosting would be divine. Just keep it light so the flavors of the cake shine through. But honestly, it’s so good on its own that you might not even need it!
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The best way to check is to use the toothpick test! Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs sticking to it, your cake is done. If there’s wet batter, give it a few more minutes and check again!
Remember, baking is all about experimenting and having fun, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions or need tips! Happy baking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve whipped up this delightful Christmas high tea treat, you might be wondering how to store any leftovers (if there are any!). Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Proper storage ensures that your cake stays fresh and tasty for days to come.
To store your cake, simply let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container to keep it nice and moist. It’ll stay fresh at room temperature for about 3-4 days. If you have a bit more leftover and want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!
If you want to save it for even longer, this cake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then put them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. No need to reheat—just serve it chilled or at room temperature, and you’ll still get that delightful taste that makes this cake so special!
So go ahead, bake up a storm, and don’t stress about leftovers! With these storage tips, you can enjoy your Christmas high tea treat for days to come!
Z nadrukami
Christmas High Tea: 7 Joyful Treats to Wow Your Guests
- Całkowity Czas: 55 minutes
- Ustępować: 12 servings 1x
- Dieta: Wegańskie
Opis
A delightful Christmas high tea experience featuring a variety of festive treats.
Składniki
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup butter
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts
Instrukcje
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and milk.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in cranberries and nuts.
- Pour batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before serving.
Uwagi
- Serve with tea of your choice.
- Add seasonal fruits as garnish.
- Adjust sugar level according to taste.
- Czas Przygotowania: 20 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 35 minutes
- Kategoria: Dessert
- Sposób: Baking
- Kuchnia: British
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 slice
- Kalorie: 250
- Cukier: 15g
- Sód: 200mg
- Kwasy: 10g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 6g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 3g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 35g
- Włókno: 2g
- Białko: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Słowa kluczowe: christmas high tea, festive treats, holiday baking
