Oh, let me tell you about my favorite *merry christmas cake*! It’s become a cherished tradition in my family during the holidays. Every December, I whip up this festive delight, filling my home with the warm, sweet aroma of baked goodness. The combination of dried fruits and nuts gives it that special holiday flair, and trust me, it’s a showstopper at any Christmas gathering! I love serving slices topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a swirl of frosting—it looks like a snowy wonderland! This cake isn’t just delicious; it’s a piece of my heart, a slice of joy that brings everyone together, celebrating the spirit of Christmas. You’re going to love it!

Ingredients List

Gather these simple yet delightful ingredients to create your very own *merry christmas cake*. I promise, they’ll come together beautifully!

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup whole milk
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup dried fruit (like raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots)
1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work great)
1/4 teaspoon salt

These ingredients come together to create a cake that’s not only festive but also packed with flavor and texture. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get baking!

How to Prepare Instructions

Getting ready to whip up this festive *merry christmas cake* is half the fun! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious cake that fills your home with holiday cheer. Just remember, take your time, and enjoy the process!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important for even baking, so don’t skip this step!
While the oven is warming up, grab your favorite cake pan and grease it with some butter, then dust it with flour. This helps the cake come out easily after baking.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. You’ll want to beat it well—this is where the magic begins!
Next, beat in the eggs, one at a time. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This gives the cake that wonderful structure.
Now, add in the milk and vanilla extract, mixing everything together until it’s smooth and lovely. The aroma will start to make your mouth water!
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This is your dry mixture.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix; just stir until you see no flour pockets left!
Finally, fold in the dried fruit and chopped nuts. This adds that delightful crunch and festive flavor. Yum!
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing it out a bit if needed.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Wow, the smell will be heavenly!
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience is key here!

And just like that, you’ve created a festive masterpiece! The hard part is waiting for it to cool before you dig in. But trust me, it’ll be worth it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: You can whip this cake up in just about an hour, leaving you more time to enjoy the holiday festivities!
Festive Flavor: The combination of dried fruits and nuts creates a delightful taste that screams Christmas cheer!
Delicious Texture: With a light and fluffy crumb, every bite is a perfect mix of moistness and crunch.
Simple Ingredients: You likely already have these pantry staples on hand—no last-minute grocery runs needed!
Customizable: Feel free to switch up the fruits or nuts to match your family’s taste preferences.
Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields enough to serve a crowd, making it ideal for holiday gatherings.
Beautiful Presentation: A dusting of powdered sugar or a simple frosting makes it look as good as it tastes—perfect for your holiday table!

Tips for Success

Making the perfect *merry christmas cake* is all about a few little tricks that can make a big difference! Here are my go-to tips to ensure your cake turns out wonderfully every time:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before you start. This helps everything mix together smoothly and creates a lovely texture!
Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and nobody wants that!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Check that your baking powder is fresh—it should bubble when mixed with wet ingredients. Stale baking powder can cause your cake to not rise properly.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness, but remember it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs—not wet batter. If it’s browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil!
Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This allows it to set and makes it easier to handle.
Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze slices for later indulgence—just wrap them tightly!
Get Creative: Feel free to add your favorite holiday spices, like nutmeg or cinnamon, to enhance that festive flavor even more!

Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to baking a *merry christmas cake* that’s sure to impress your friends and family. Happy baking!

Variations

The beauty of the *merry christmas cake* is its versatility! You can easily customize it to make it uniquely yours. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Spice it Up: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor that screams holiday cheer!
Fruit Medley: Swap out the dried fruits for your favorites—try adding chopped dates, candied orange peel, or even some chopped apples for a different twist!
Nuts About Nuts: Instead of just walnuts or pecans, why not mix in some slivered almonds or hazelnuts? Each nut brings its own delightful crunch!
Chocolate Lovers: Stir in some chocolate chips or chunks for a rich, decadent touch. Dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweet flavors!
Citrus Zing: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrus burst. It brightens the flavors and adds a lovely aroma.
Festive Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cake for an extra sweet touch and a beautiful finish!
Vegan Version: Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water, and use plant-based milk and butter for a delicious vegan-friendly option.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and mix and match these ideas. The *merry christmas cake* is a canvas for your imagination, so have fun and make it your own! Each variation will bring its own festive flair to your holiday celebrations.

Nutritional Information Section

When you indulge in a slice of my *merry christmas cake*, it’s nice to know what you’re enjoying! Here’s an estimate of the nutritional values per serving. Keep in mind, these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. But here’s a good ballpark:

Calories: 250
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total Carbohydrates: 35g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 15g
Protein: 4g

Remember, this cake is all about joy and celebration, so enjoy every delightful bite! Happy holidays!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After you’ve enjoyed your *merry christmas cake*, you’ll want to store any leftovers properly to keep it tasting fresh and delicious. Here’s how to do it:

Cool Completely: First, make sure your cake has cooled completely before storing it. This prevents any condensation from forming, which can make it soggy.
Airtight Container: Place the cake in an airtight container. If you don’t have one, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Just be sure it’s well-covered to lock in moisture.
Room Temperature: You can store your *merry christmas cake* at room temperature for up to three days. It’ll stay soft and flavorful!
Refrigeration: If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for about a week. Just remember that refrigeration can sometimes change the texture a bit, making it a little denser.
Freezing: For extended storage, the cake freezes beautifully! Slice it first, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to two months. Just make sure to label it so you don’t forget about it!

When you’re ready to enjoy a slice from the freezer, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. No need to reheat if you prefer it chilled, but if you want it warm, pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy the festive flavors all over again!

FAQ Section

Got questions about the *merry christmas cake*? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries and my answers to help you bake the perfect festive treat.

Can I use a different type of flour?

Absolutely! If you want a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just make sure to check that it includes a binding agent, like xanthan gum, to help with texture.

What can I use instead of eggs?

If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit until it thickens). Both work wonders in baking!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can bake it a day or two in advance, just make sure to store it properly as mentioned earlier.

What’s the best way to serve the cake?

I love serving it with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side also makes it extra special! You could even add some festive berries for a pop of color!

Can I add more dried fruits or nuts?

Definitely! Feel free to adjust the amounts based on your taste preferences. Just keep in mind that too much added fruit or nuts can affect the cake’s texture, so balance it out with a little extra flour if you go overboard!

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The toothpick test is your best friend! Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready. If it’s wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store your leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly and freeze individual slices. They’ll be perfect for a quick treat later on!

Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further tips! I’m always here to help you create a *merry christmas cake* that will become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.

Merry Christmas Cake: 7 Steps to Holiday Joy

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A festive cake perfect for Christmas celebrations.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a cake pan.
In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar.
Beat in eggs, one at a time.
Add milk and vanilla extract, mixing well.
In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
Fold in dried fruit and nuts.
Pour batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Decorate with frosting or powdered sugar if desired.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 250
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: merry christmas cake

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