Why Make This Christmas Loaf Cake
The Christmas season often calls for warm, comforting treats that bring a sense of coziness and joy. This Christmas Loaf Cake is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday dessert table. With its fluffy texture and inviting aroma, it captures all the flavors of the festive season. Whether you’re celebrating with family, hosting friends, or simply indulging yourself, this cake begs to be sliced and shared. Plus, it’s straightforward to make, even for novice bakers!
How to Make Christmas Loaf Cake
Creating your Christmas Loaf Cake is easier than you might think. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be rewarded with a delicious treat that fills your home with cinnamon and butter-sugar scents. It’s perfect for festive gatherings or a quiet evening by the fire.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits or nuts (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Directions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it turns light and fluffy—this step is key to achieving a tender cake. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and any optional spices you choose to add like cinnamon or nutmeg. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix it until just combined; over-mixing can lead to dense cake. If you want to add a twist, fold in the mixed dried fruits or nuts at this stage for added texture and flavor.
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top if necessary. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your festive loaf cake!
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 4g
This nutritious breakdown lets you enjoy your cake mindfully while celebrating the season!
How to Serve Christmas Loaf Cake
This loaf cake is excellent on its own, but you can elevate the experience even further! Serve slices with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of warm caramel sauce, or alongside a dollop of whipped cream. For a festive touch, consider adding fresh cranberries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pairing it with a nice cup of spiced tea or coffee adds even more warmth to the occasion!
How to Store Christmas Loaf Cake
To keep your Christmas Loaf Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will remain delicious for about 3-4 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it for a week or even freeze slices for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.
Expert Tips for Perfect Christmas Loaf Cake
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to help them blend more easily.
- Don’t Rush: Allow the butter and sugar to cream together until light and fluffy for a tender crumb.
- Check for Doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, start checking the cake at the 50-minute mark.
- Let Cool Fully: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and intact slices.
Delicious Variations
- Citrus Twist: Add the zest of an orange or lemon for a bright flavor.
- Spiced Up: Enhance the spices with ginger and allspice for a more aromatic cake.
- Chocolate Chip Delight: Stir in a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips for an extra treat.
- Nutty Addition: Use pecans or walnuts instead of or alongside dried fruits for crunch.
- Frosted Cake: Top with a light cream cheese frosting for a festive finishing touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a portion or all of the all-purpose flour. If you’re using 100% whole wheat flour, you might want to add a little extra milk to maintain moisture.
Can I make this cake vegan?
Absolutely! You can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg) and substitute the milk and butter with almond milk and coconut oil, respectively.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract or even a splash of rum for depth. You could also add a quarter cup of brandy-soaked raisins for a festive twist!
Conclusion
This Christmas Loaf Cake is not just a treat; it’s a warm embrace from your oven, filled with delightful flavors that bring the spirit of the season right into your home. Simple to make and perfect for sharing, it invites you to embrace the joy of baking and the pleasure of delicious food. So why not gather your ingredients and whip up this festive loaf cake? It’s sure to become a cherished holiday tradition for you and your loved ones. Happy baking!
Christmas Loaf Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and optional spices.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk.
- Mix until just combined, then fold in any mixed dried fruits or nuts if desired.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top if necessary.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.