There’s just something magical about the aroma of baking that fills the house during the holiday season, isn’t there? When I whip up this *cake christmas*, I can already picture my family gathered around the kitchen, laughter echoing as we share stories and memories. It’s one of those recipes that seems to bring everyone together, as if the warmth of the cake itself invites joy and togetherness. I still remember the first time I made it; my kids couldn’t wait to sneak bites of the batter! This cake, with its rich flavors and delightful texture, is not just a dessert—it’s a centerpiece for celebration. Whether it’s Christmas morning or a festive gathering, this cake creates lasting memories that we cherish year after year. Trust me, when you bake this gem, you’ll be hooked on the spirit of the season!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits, chopped if large
- 1/2 cup nuts, chopped
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because you want your cake to start baking right when the batter hits that hot oven! While that’s warming up, grab your favorite cake pan—an 8 or 9-inch round pan works great—and grease it with a bit of butter or cooking spray. Then, dust it with flour to ensure your cake slides out easily once it’s baked. Trust me, the last thing you want is your beautiful cake sticking to the bottom!
Creaming the Butter and Sugar
Now, onto the fun part! In a large mixing bowl, add your softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. You’re looking for that perfect pale yellow color and a texture that’s almost cloud-like. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, giving your cake that delightful rise!
Mixing in Ingredients
Next, it’s time to add the eggs! Crack them in one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely aroma. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Now, we’ll alternate adding this dry mixture with the milk to the creamed butter and sugar. Start with a third of the flour mixture, mix it in, then add half the milk, followed by another third of the flour, the rest of the milk, and finally the last of the flour. It’s like a little dance—just be gentle to keep that fluffy texture!
Incorporating Fruits and Nuts
Once you’ve got a smooth batter, it’s time to fold in those mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts. Grab a spatula and gently lift the batter from the bottom of the bowl to combine everything without overmixing. This helps keep your cake light and airy while ensuring every bite is filled with fruity goodness and a delightful crunch!
Baking the Cake
Now, pour your delicious batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with your spatula. Pop it into the oven and let it bake for about 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the edges start to pull away from the pan. Oh, and that heavenly smell? It means you’re on the right track! Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the process, because soon you’ll have a festive masterpiece ready to share!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Flavor: This *cake christmas* is bursting with rich, warm flavors that perfectly capture the spirit of the holiday season. The combination of mixed dried fruits and nuts adds a delightful twist that brings joy in every bite!
- Easy Preparation: Trust me, with just a few simple steps, you can whip up this cake without breaking a sweat! It’s the kind of recipe that even novice bakers can master.
- Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a cozy family get-together or a big holiday party, this cake is sure to impress your guests. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s bound to become a favorite at your festive celebrations!
- Customizable Decorations: The best part? You can easily customize this cake to match your holiday theme! Top it with icing, fresh fruits, or even some festive sprinkles to make it truly unique and eye-catching.
Tips for Success
Alright, friends, let’s talk about some pro tips to ensure your *cake christmas* turns out absolutely perfect every time! First off, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature. This means letting your eggs and butter sit out for about 30 minutes before you start baking. It helps everything blend together smoothly for that fluffy texture we’re after!
Next, don’t skip the creaming step! Be sure to cream the butter and sugar until it’s light and airy—this is key for a cake that rises beautifully. If you’re in a hurry, I get it, but trust me, taking that extra time is worth it!
When it comes to mixing in the dry ingredients, remember to fold gently. Overmixing can make your cake dense and tough instead of light and tender. Just mix until you see no dry flour—it’s okay if the batter isn’t perfectly smooth.
Also, keep an eye on your baking time. Every oven is a little different, so start checking for doneness a few minutes early. Test with a toothpick; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, you’re golden! Let it cool in the pan for a bit before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from breaking apart.
Lastly, if you want a super moist cake, consider brushing it with a simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water boiled together) after it cools. It adds sweetness and keeps your cake lovely and moist for days. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to savor every slice of your delicious creation!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed your delightful *cake christmas*, you might find yourself with some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). To keep your cake fresh and delicious, the best way to store it is in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you think it’ll last longer, you can refrigerate it, but be aware that refrigeration can sometimes dry out the cake a bit.
If you’re looking to keep it for an extended period, freezing is a fantastic option! Just wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. It can be frozen for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing helps maintain its moisture and flavor.
Now, if you want to reheat a slice of your cake, I’ve got you covered! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the slice on a baking sheet. Heat it for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also pop it in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, but be careful not to overdo it—nobody wants a rubbery cake! A warm slice paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream is just heavenly. Enjoy every bite, because nothing beats a slice of *cake christmas* any time of the year!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for each slice of your delicious *cake christmas*. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But it’s always good to know what you’re indulging in, right?
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
So, as you enjoy each slice of this festive treat, you can feel a little less guilty knowing the nutritional details. And remember, it’s all about balance—indulging in delicious holiday treats like this makes the season all the more special!
FAQ Section
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This *cake christmas* is perfect for making ahead. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. Just bake it, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. You can even freeze it if you want to make it a week or two in advance. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving, and you’ll be good to go!
What can I substitute for mixed dried fruits?
If you’re not a fan of mixed dried fruits or just want to switch things up, there are plenty of alternatives! You could use just raisins or chopped dates for a sweeter touch. Dried cranberries or cherries would add a lovely tartness, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some chopped apricots or even unsweetened coconut! The key is to keep the total amount about the same, so it all balances perfectly in the batter.
How can I decorate this cake for Christmas?
Oh, decorating this cake can be so much fun! For a simple, elegant look, dust the top with powdered sugar for a snowy effect. You could also spread a layer of cream cheese frosting or whipped cream and decorate with fresh berries, like raspberries or strawberries, for a pop of color. Want to go all out? Grab some festive sprinkles, edible glitter, or even holiday-themed candies to make it sparkle! Get creative and let your holiday spirit shine through!
Print
Cake Christmas: 5 Festive Flavors to Share Joy
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive cake perfect for Christmas celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits
- 1/2 cup nuts, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a cake pan.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with milk.
- Fold in dried fruits and nuts.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best served with whipped cream.
- Can be decorated with icing and festive toppings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: cake, christmas, holiday dessert, festive cake
