Easy Christmas Cake – cookcorner

Easy Christmas Cake is a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of the holiday season. It’s rich, moist, and packed with the warm flavors of spices and dried fruits, making it an absolute must for your festive celebrations. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want to enjoy a slice with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to bring joy and comfort to your table.

Why Make This Easy Christmas Cake

This Easy Christmas Cake is the perfect blend of tradition and simplicity. With minimal effort, you can create a flavorful cake that will impress friends and family alike. It’s not only delicious but also versatile; you can serve it plain or dress it up with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing. The combination of spices, such as cinnamon and nutmeg, infuses the cake with a warm aroma, while the mixed dried fruits add bursts of sweetness and texture. Plus, it’s an ideal recipe to make ahead of time, as it keeps well and tastes even better the next day.

How to Make Easy Christmas Cake

Baking this Easy Christmas Cake is straightforward and enjoyable. Start by preheating your oven, then cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add the eggs and mix well. After combining the dry ingredients, alternate adding them with the milk, creating a smooth batter. Finally, fold in the dried fruits and let the magic happen in the oven. In no time, you’ll have a delightful cake that fills your home with the comforting scent of the holidays.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1 cup unsalted butter
4 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup mixed dried fruits
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk.
Fold in the mixed dried fruits.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool before serving, and enjoy with loved ones!

Nutritional Information

Per slice (about 1/12 of the cake):

Calories: 350
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 43g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 4g

How to Serve Easy Christmas Cake

This cake is delightful on its own, but it can also be dressed up for special occasions. Consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top or drape it with a light citrus glaze. It pairs beautifully with a cup of spiced tea or coffee, making it a wonderful addition to your holiday brunch or dessert table.

How to Store Easy Christmas Cake

To keep your Easy Christmas Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to two weeks. For longer storage, this cake freezes well for up to three months. Just ensure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn and let it thaw fully before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Christmas Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a fluffy texture.
Dried Fruits: Feel free to use your favorite dried fruits, such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots. Soaking them in orange juice or rum for an hour before adding can enhance their flavor.
Testing for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready.
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

Delicious Variations

Spiced Nut Version: Add a 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
Citrus Zest: Mix in some lemon or orange zest for a refreshing twist.
Chocolate Chips: Incorporate chocolate chips along with the dried fruits for a decadent touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, this cake can be made up to two days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
What can I substitute for the butter? You can use vegetable oil or coconut oil as a substitute for butter, but the texture and flavor may change slightly.
Why is my cake dense? A dense cake can often result from overmixing the batter after adding flour. Be sure to mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried fruits? While you can use fresh fruits, the moisture content will change the cake’s texture. If using fresh fruits, reduce the milk slightly to balance the moisture.
How can I make it gluten-free? Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check for a blend that works well for baking.
Will this cake rise well? Yes, as long as you use fresh baking powder and follow the instructions, it should rise nicely.
Can I add frosting to this cake? Absolutely! A light cream cheese frosting or a simple icing can elevate the cake even more.
What if I don’t have mixed dried fruits? You can mix and match different dried fruits or just use one type, like raisins or cranberries, and still achieve a delicious cake.
Is the cake suitable for freezing? Yes, this cake freezes well when wrapped tightly and can be enjoyed later.
Can I make mini versions of this cake? Yes, you can use a muffin tin to create mini cakes. Just adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes.

Conclusion

This Easy Christmas Cake is a fantastic addition to your holiday traditions. Not only does it capture the festive spirit with its delicious flavors, but it also brings families together to create sweet memories. The simplicity of this recipe means you can whip it up quickly and effortlessly, ensuring you have more time to enjoy with your loved ones. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start baking—your home will fill with delightful aromas, and your taste buds will thank you! Happy baking!