Easy Christmas Cake

Delicious easy Christmas cake decorated with festive toppings and icing.

Why Make This Easy Christmas Cake

Christmas is a time for gathering with friends and family, and what better way to celebrate than with a festive, homemade cake? This Easy Christmas Cake is not only simple to make but also fills your home with delightful aromas of cinnamon and baked fruit. The balance of tender cake and sweet, chewy dried fruits makes every bite a joy. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or looking for a thoughtful gift, this cake is sure to spread cheer and warm hearts.

How to Make Easy Christmas Cake

Making this Easy Christmas Cake is a straightforward process that even novice bakers will find simple. It starts with a few basic ingredients mixed together in a way that maximizes flavor and texture. With an easy-to-follow method, you’ll have a deliciously moist cake to serve at any holiday gathering, or simply enjoy at home with a steaming cup of tea or coffee.

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:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a cake pan to prevent sticking.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cake a nice rise.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures they are fully combined for a smooth batter.
  4. Stir in the vanilla extract, which adds a lovely aroma and flavor to your cake.
  5. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mixing dry ingredients in another bowl helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. This prevents the batter from becoming too thick and helps maintain the lightness of the cake.
  7. Fold in the mixed dried fruits carefully to avoid breaking them up too much.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  9. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This ensures your cake is perfectly baked throughout.
  10. Allow to cool before serving, and enjoy it with loved ones!

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 slice out of 12 servings):

  • Calories: 320
  • Total Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 110mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 14g
  • Protein: 4g

How to Serve Easy Christmas Cake

This cake is perfect for any holiday table. Serve it plain or dress it up with a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch. Pair it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. For an extra seasonal flair, consider adding a candied orange slice or a sprig of rosemary on top when serving.

How to Store Easy Christmas Cake

Store your Easy Christmas Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep it for longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. It also freezes beautifully! Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Christmas Cake

  • Make sure the butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming with the sugar.
  • Use a variety of dried fruits for diverse textures and flavors—think cranberries, apricots, and raisins!
  • If you like a more pronounced spice flavor, feel free to adjust the amounts of cinnamon and nutmeg.
  • For a richer cake, you can substitute half of the milk with sour cream or yogurt.
  • Always check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time; oven temperatures can vary!

Delicious Variations

  • Vegan Easy Christmas Cake: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use a vegan butter substitute.
  • Chocolate Christmas Cake: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the flour for a rich chocolate version.
  • Nutty Christmas Cake: Fold in 1 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried fruits?

    • Fresh fruits can add moisture, but they may not provide the same concentrated sweetness or texture as dried fruits. If you do use fresh fruit, consider reducing the amount of milk in your batter to compensate for added liquid.

  • What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?

    • You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but be sure to add a little xanthan gum for structure. Almond flour is another option for a denser cake, though you may need to adjust the liquids slightly.

  • How do I know when the cake is done baking?

    • The best way to test is by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready.

Conclusion

This Easy Christmas Cake is the perfect addition to your holiday festivities. With its delightful flavors and aromas, this cake is sure to become a cherished tradition in your household. Its easy preparation allows you to focus on what matters most—spending time with loved ones. So why not give it a try this holiday season? Your friends and family will be glad you did! Don’t forget to share your baking experience and any variations you try in the comments below!

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