As the air turns crisp and the scent of cinnamon and cloves wafts through the house, there’s no denying that the most wonderful time of the year is upon us. And at the heart of the holiday season is the beloved Christmas cake – a rich, fruity delight that has been a beloved tradition for generations.
This Christmas cake recipe is not just any ordinary bake; it’s a true labor of love, crafted with the finest ingredients and time-honored techniques to create a dessert that is both visually stunning and utterly delectable. From the moment you slice into the deep, ruby-hued cake, you’ll be transported to a world of holiday magic, where the flavors of brandy, dried fruit, and warm spices come together in perfect harmony.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this traditional Christmas cake recipe is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday celebrations. So, let’s dive in and discover the secrets to creating a truly unforgettable Christmas cake that will have your guests raving for years to come!
✨ Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe ?
This traditional Christmas cake is nothing short of a culinary masterpiece. From the moment you take your first bite, you’ll be captivated by the depth of flavor and the moist, dense texture that sets it apart from other holiday cakes. The combination of brandy-soaked dried fruits, warm spices, and a rich, buttery crumb creates a taste experience that is simply out of this world.
But it’s not just the flavor that makes this recipe so special. The process of preparing the cake is a true labor of love, with each step carefully considered to ensure the perfect result. From the meticulous soaking of the dried fruit to the gentle folding of the batter, every detail has been carefully crafted to deliver a cake that is not only delicious but also a true work of art.
Ingredients
• 1/2 cup (120ml) brandy, plus more for brushing
• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) baking soda
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) salt
The key to this traditional Christmas cake is the use of a mix of dried fruits, which lend a delightful chewiness and a medley of flavors to the final product. By soaking the fruit in brandy, you’re not only adding a luxurious depth of flavor but also ensuring that the cake stays moist and tender even days after baking.
Instructions
- Soak the Dried Fruit: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped dried fruit and 1/2 cup of brandy. Cover and let soak for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours, stirring occasionally. This step ensures the fruit absorbs the brandy, resulting in a beautifully moist and flavorful cake.
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step incorporates air into the batter, creating a tender crumb.
- Add the Eggs: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures the eggs are fully incorporated, preventing a dense or dry texture.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
- Fold in the Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the butter-sugar mixture, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake.
- Fold in the Soaked Fruit: Drain the soaked dried fruit, reserving the brandy. Gently fold the fruit into the cake batter, being careful not to break up the pieces.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be a deep, golden brown color.
- Brush with Brandy: While the cake is still warm, use a pastry brush to brush the top with the reserved brandy. This helps to keep the cake moist and infuses it with even more festive flavor.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Slice and serve the traditional Christmas cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired. Enjoy!
⏰ Timing Overview
• Soaking time: 2-24 hours
• Baking time: 60-75 minutes
• Cooling time: 1-2 hours
• Total Time: 3-27 hours
🍽️ Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is an estimate per serving, based on 12 servings.
• Protein: 5 g
• Sodium: 186 mg
• Carbohydrates: 63 g
• Fat: 17 g
• Fiber: 3 g
🎄 How to Customize This Recipe ?
🍴 Elevate Your Meal with These Serving Tips
• Garnish Suggestions: Top the cake with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of brandy-infused caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted sliced almonds for an extra touch of elegance.
• Beverage Pairing: This Christmas cake pairs beautifully with a cup of strong, fragrant tea or a small glass of sweet dessert wine, such as a Muscat or a Port.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Mistake 2 – Overmixing the Batter: Be gentle when folding in the dry ingredients and the soaked fruit. Overmixing can develop too much gluten, leading to a tough, dense texture. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Mistake 3 – Overbaking the Cake: Keep a close eye on the cake during the baking process. Overbaking can cause the cake to dry out and become crumbly. Use the toothpick test to ensure the cake is cooked through but still moist.
🧊 How to Keep Your Leftovers Fresh ?
• Freezing: The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: To reheat the cake, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. This will help restore the moist, tender texture.
🙋♀️ FAQs
Can I use a different type of dried fruit in this recipe?
Absolutely! The beauty of this traditional Christmas cake recipe is that it’s highly customizable. Feel free to use a mix of your favorite dried fruits, such as apricots, figs, or even candied citrus peel. Just be sure to chop the fruit into similar-sized pieces and adjust the soaking time accordingly.
How long does this cake stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this traditional Christmas cake can stay fresh for up to 1 week at room temperature, or up to 5 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, the cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, this Christmas cake is actually best when made a few days in advance. The flavors will meld and deepen over time, and the cake will become more moist and flavorful. Simply bake the cake, brush it with brandy, and store it in an airtight container. You can then decorate and serve it whenever you’re ready.
How can I add more brandy flavor to the cake?
If you’d like an even more pronounced brandy flavor, you can soak the dried fruit in brandy for up to 24 hours. Additionally, you can brush the cake with brandy multiple times during the cooling process, or even drizzle some brandy over the top of the cake before serving.
Can I make this cake gluten-free or vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this traditional Christmas cake recipe to be gluten-free or vegan. Refer to the “How to Customize This Recipe” section for detailed instructions on making substitutions to accommodate dietary restrictions.
🎅 Enjoy Your Delicious Creation!
As you slice into this magnificent traditional Christmas cake, filled with the warm, festive flavors of brandy, spices, and fragrant dried fruit, you’ll be transported to a cozy, winter wonderland. The rich, moist crumb and the elegant presentation make this cake an absolute showstopper, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the most wonderful time of the year.
So, gather your loved ones, pour a glass of mulled wine, and savor every bite of this truly exceptional Christmas cake. It’s a recipe that will become a cherished part of your holiday traditions, filling your home with the magic and joy of the season.
Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas!
Delicious, Authentic Christmas Cake Recipe Traditional
⏱️ Timing Overview
🥘 Ingredients
📝 Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped dried fruit and 1/2 cup of brandy. Cover and let soak for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours, stirring occasionally. This step ensures the fruit absorbs the brandy, resulting in a beautifully moist and flavorful cake.
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step incorporates air into the batter, creating a tender crumb.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures the eggs are fully incorporated, preventing a dense or dry texture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the butter-sugar mixture, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake.
- Drain the soaked dried fruit, reserving the brandy. Gently fold the fruit into the cake batter, being careful not to break up the pieces.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be a deep, golden brown color.
- While the cake is still warm, use a pastry brush to brush the top with the reserved brandy. This helps to keep the cake moist and infuses it with even more festive flavor.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Slice and serve the traditional Christmas cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired. Enjoy!
