Let me tell you about my absolute favorite holiday treat: the *Christmas cake simple*! This delightful cake is a staple in my home during the festive season, and it never fails to bring a warm, cozy feeling as it fills the air with its sweet aroma while baking. It’s so easy to whip up, making it perfect for those busy holiday days when you want something special but don’t have all day to spend in the kitchen. I love how it combines the sweetness of dried fruits and the warmth of cinnamon, creating a flavor that just screams “holiday cheer.” Plus, it’s a cake that brings the family together—whether we’re enjoying a slice with coffee on Christmas morning or serving it up at family gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a cherished part of your holiday traditions too!
Ingredients List
Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create your delightful *Christmas cake simple*. Each one plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture:
- 200g all-purpose flour – this is the foundation of your cake, giving it structure and a lovely crumb.
- 200g sugar – for that sweet touch that complements the dried fruits and spices beautifully.
- 100g butter – unsalted and softened, it adds richness and moisture to your cake.
- 3 large eggs – they help bind everything together and create a lovely, fluffy texture.
- 1 tsp baking powder – this little helper ensures your cake rises perfectly, giving it that airy quality.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – because who doesn’t love the warm, inviting aroma of vanilla?
- 100g mixed dried fruits – a delightful assortment that adds sweetness and a pop of color!
- 50g chopped nuts – for a bit of crunch and added flavor; walnuts or pecans work beautifully.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon – this spice infuses your cake with that classic holiday warmth.
Make sure you measure everything precisely, and you’ll be well on your way to baking a delicious holiday cake!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the simple steps to create your *Christmas cake simple*. Follow along, and I promise it’ll be a breeze!
- First, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This is super important because a well-preheated oven helps your cake rise beautifully!
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or just a good old wooden spoon—whichever you prefer!
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to incorporate them fully into the batter, so don’t rush this step!
- Next, sift the flour, baking powder, and ground cinnamon into the bowl. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want a nice, tender cake!
- Now, stir in the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts. This is where the magic happens! The fruits and nuts will add that festive touch you’re looking for.
- Pour the batter into a greased cake pan, spreading it evenly. I like to use a round or square pan, but feel free to use what you have on hand!
- Bake in your preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!
- Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. The aroma will be irresistible!
And there you have it! A simple and delightful Christmas cake that’s sure to be a hit this holiday season. Enjoy every slice!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly simple to make—perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros!
- Quick prep time of just 15 minutes means you can whip it up even on the busiest holiday mornings.
- Uses everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, so no last-minute grocery runs!
- Delightfully moist and flavorful with the perfect blend of spices, dried fruits, and nuts.
- This cake fills your home with a heavenly aroma that makes the holidays feel even more special.
- It’s versatile—enjoy it plain, or dress it up with a dusting of icing sugar or festive frosting!
- Great for sharing with family and friends, making it a wonderful addition to your holiday gatherings.
- Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a lovely treat for cozy afternoons.
Tips for Success
To make sure your *Christmas cake simple* turns out absolutely perfect, here are some of my favorite tips and tricks that I’ve learned along the way:
- Check for doneness: Besides the toothpick method, you can gently press the top of the cake. If it springs back, it’s ready! If it leaves an indentation, give it a few more minutes.
- Don’t open the oven door too soon: This can cause your cake to sink! Wait until the last 10 minutes to peek in and check on it.
- Variations in baking times: Keep in mind that ovens can vary. If your cake is browning too quickly on top, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil while it continues to bake.
- Ingredient substitutions: If you’re low on eggs, you can use a flaxseed meal as a binder (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg). Also, feel free to swap in your favorite dried fruits or nuts based on what you have on hand!
- For added flavor: A splash of orange juice or zest can really brighten up the flavor profile. I love adding a bit of citrus during the holidays!
- Let it cool: Be patient! Let the cake cool completely before slicing. It helps the flavors meld together and makes for cleaner cuts.
- Storing for later: If you want to make it ahead of time, this cake actually tastes even better the next day! Just wrap it well and store it at room temperature.
With these little nuggets of wisdom, you’ll be well on your way to baking a *Christmas cake simple* that’s not only delicious but also a true celebration of the season!
Nutritional Information Section
Here’s a quick glance at the typical nutritional values for each slice of your *Christmas cake simple*. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what to expect:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 15g
This cake is not only a festive treat but also a delightful balance of flavors and nutrients, making it a lovely addition to your holiday celebrations!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making and enjoying your *Christmas cake simple*? Don’t worry! I’ve got you covered with some of the most common queries I get about this delightful recipe:
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this cake often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have a chance to meld together. Just wrap it well and store it at room temperature until you’re ready to serve.
How should I store leftover cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It’ll last up to a week on the counter, or if you want to keep it longer, you can freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to two months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
What if I don’t have mixed dried fruits?
No problem! You can use any dried fruits you have on hand, like raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates. You can even mix and match to create your own delightful combination.
Can I substitute the nuts?
Yes, feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or even leave them out if you prefer a nut-free cake. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be a great alternative if you still want that crunch!
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Definitely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a good gluten-free flour blend, and make sure your baking powder is gluten-free as well. It should work beautifully!
Can I add frosting to the cake?
Of course! While this cake is delightful on its own, a simple icing sugar glaze or cream cheese frosting can take it to the next level. Just remember, it’s delicious even without any frosting!
What should I serve with this cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can also serve it alongside some whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!
Hopefully, these answers help you on your journey to baking the perfect *Christmas cake simple*! If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious *Christmas cake simple*, you’ll want to make sure it stays fresh for as long as possible! Here’s how to store it properly and reheat it if needed:
To store any leftover cake, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can sit at room temperature for up to a week. This cake is quite forgiving, so don’t worry about it drying out too quickly!
If you want to keep it for longer, you can freeze individual slices. Just wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll stay good for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, just transfer it to the fridge to thaw overnight—so simple!
Now, if you’re looking to reheat a slice, I recommend using the microwave for a quick fix. Just pop it in for about 10-15 seconds to warm it up without drying it out. You could also place it in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 5-10 minutes to enjoy it warm, which brings back that freshly-baked vibe!
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, your *Christmas cake simple* will remain a delightful treat whenever you crave a slice of holiday cheer!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve baked your delicious *Christmas cake simple*, let’s talk about how to serve it up for maximum enjoyment! This cake is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of treats and drinks that will elevate your festive experience.
- Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee is the perfect companion for your cake. The rich flavors of the cake blend wonderfully with the warmth of your favorite hot beverage.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side adds an extra touch of indulgence. It’s light and airy, complementing the dense texture of the cake!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For a delightful twist, serve a slice of cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy coldness pairs so well with the warm spices in the cake!
- Fruit Compote: A spoonful of warm fruit compote (like cranberry or apple) drizzled over your cake adds a touch of tartness that balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Festive Cocktails: If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, consider serving the cake with a festive cocktail, like a spiced apple cider or a holiday-themed punch. The flavors will definitely enhance your celebration!
- Cheese Platter: For a unique pairing, try serving your cake alongside a cheese platter. A mild cheese like brie or a sharp cheddar can create a delightful contrast with the sweetness of the cake.
These serving suggestions will not only enhance the flavors of your *Christmas cake simple* but also make for a memorable holiday gathering. Enjoy every bite and the joy it brings to your festive celebrations!
Print
Christmas Cake Simple: 7 Sweet Secrets Revealed
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious Christmas cake recipe.
Ingredients
- 200g all-purpose flour
- 200g sugar
- 100g butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 100g mixed dried fruits
- 50g chopped nuts
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a bowl, cream butter and sugar together.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Sift flour, baking powder, and cinnamon into the mixture.
- Stir in dried fruits and nuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased cake pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool before serving.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can be decorated with icing if desired.
- Best served with tea or coffee.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Western
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: christmas cake simple, easy christmas cake, holiday cake
