Oh wow, can you feel the festive spirit in the air? Every year, as Christmas approaches, I get this irresistible craving to whip up my favorite cake Christmas recipe! It’s a tradition in my family, and I can almost smell the warm spices and sweet dried fruits wafting through the house as it bakes. I remember gathering around the kitchen with my loved ones, laughter bubbling over as we decorated the cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a glossy icing. It just brings everyone together, doesn’t it? This cake is not just any dessert; it’s a celebration in itself! Perfectly moist and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to be the star of your holiday feast. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it every year too!

Ingredients List

You’ll want to gather these simple ingredients to make your festive cake Christmas. Each one adds a unique flavor and texture, making this cake truly special!

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
4 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup mixed dried fruits (like raisins and cranberries)
1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work beautifully)

Make sure your butter is nice and soft; it helps to create that fluffy texture I love so much. And if you can, let your eggs and milk sit out for a bit before mixing—trust me, it makes a difference in the batter! Gather these goodies, and you’re on your way to a delightful Christmas treat!

How to Prepare the Cake Christmas

Alright, let’s dive into making this delightful cake Christmas! It’s easier than you might think, and every step is filled with holiday cheer. Grab your apron, and let’s get started!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for getting that perfect rise in your cake!
Next, grease and flour a cake pan—this helps the cake slide out easily once it’s baked. I like to use a 9-inch round pan, but you can also use a bundt pan for a festive shape!
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes. You’ll love how it smells as it comes together!
Add in the eggs, one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air, giving your cake that lovely texture.
Stir in the vanilla extract—can you smell that warm goodness already?
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; don’t overdo it!
Finally, gently fold in your dried fruits and chopped nuts. This is where you can really make it your own, so feel free to add a little extra if you like!
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.
Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This is the hardest part—waiting! But trust me, it’s worth it!

And there you have it! Your cake is prepped and ready to shine at your holiday gatherings. Enjoy the process and the delicious aroma that fills your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Cake Christmas

Festive Flavor: This cake is bursting with the rich, warm flavors of the holiday season, thanks to the dried fruits and nuts. Each bite feels like a cozy celebration!
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together!
Moist and Delicious: The combination of butter, eggs, and milk creates a wonderfully moist cake that stays fresh for days, perfect for enjoying with family and friends.
Versatile Decoration: Whether you prefer a dusting of powdered sugar or a creamy icing, this cake can be dressed up or down to suit any holiday occasion.
Great for Sharing: Yielding 12 generous servings, this cake is perfect for gatherings, ensuring everyone gets a slice of joy during the festive season!
Flavor Gets Better: It tastes even better after a day or two as the flavors meld together, making it a great make-ahead dessert for your holiday feasts!

Tips for Success

To make sure your cake Christmas turns out absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few handy tips that I swear by! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference.

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before you start. This helps them blend better and creates a smoother batter!
Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want it light and fluffy!
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Ovens can vary a bit, so start checking at the 30-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Customize Your Mix-ins: Feel free to switch up the dried fruits and nuts based on your preference. Diced apples or fresh cranberries can add a fun twist, and chocolate chips would make it even more indulgent!
Cool Completely: Be patient and let the cake cool completely before icing or serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to slice.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container. This cake actually gets better as it sits, so don’t hesitate to enjoy it a day or two later!

With these tips in your back pocket, I know you’ll nail it! Happy baking, and get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful holiday treat!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made this gorgeous cake Christmas, and now you’re wondering how to keep it fresh for those sweet holiday moments? No worries, I’ve got you covered! To store your cake, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will help keep it moist and delicious for up to 5 days at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, you can store it in the refrigerator, but be mindful that it may dry out a bit faster there.

If you happen to have leftovers (again, who could resist?), you can freeze the cake! Just slice it into individual pieces and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, just take it out and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. No need to reheat; it’s delicious served chilled or at room temperature! But if you prefer it warm, pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to take it to that cozy, comforting level. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information

Now, I know you’re curious about the nutritional side of this delightful cake Christmas. Just a quick heads-up: nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are approximate. But here’s a typical breakdown for a slice of this festive cake:

Calories: 320
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Sugar: 15g

So, while you indulge in this cake, you can enjoy it knowing it’s not just a treat for the taste buds but also has some nutrients. Just remember, everything in moderation, right? Happy baking and enjoy every slice of this festive joy!

FAQ Section

Can I substitute the dried fruits in the cake?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite dried fruits, like apricots or figs. Just remember to chop them up a bit if they’re large. You can even mix it up with some chocolate chips for a fun twist!

How should I decorate my cake Christmas?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can go for a simple dusting of powdered sugar for a classic look, or if you’re feeling fancy, whip up a cream cheese frosting or a chocolate ganache. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of festive nuts on top make it visually stunning too!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Definitely! In fact, I recommend making it a day or two in advance. The flavors deepen and meld together beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container, and you’ll have a delightful treat ready for your holiday gatherings!

What size cake pan should I use?
A 9-inch round cake pan works perfectly, but if you want to be extra festive, go for a bundt pan. Just make sure to grease it well so your cake comes out beautifully!

Can I freeze the cake Christmas for later?
Yes! Once it’s fully cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight, and you’re all set for a cozy slice!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve baked this delightful cake Christmas, let’s talk about how to make your holiday spread even more festive! There are so many delicious ways to serve this cake that will have your guests raving about it.

With Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a lovely lightness and creaminess that complements the rich flavors of the cake. You can sweeten it with a hint of vanilla for an extra treat!
Ice Cream Delight: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. The contrast of warm cake and cold ice cream is simply heavenly!
Fruit Compote: Drizzle some homemade fruit compote—think berries or a spiced apple mix—over the cake for a fruity and tangy contrast that brightens each bite.
Cheese Pairing: For a unique twist, try serving slices with a bit of cream cheese or mascarpone. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the cake, making it feel extra indulgent!
Festive Beverages: Don’t forget to pair your cake with some holiday drinks! A warm spiced cider or a nice cup of coffee can enhance the flavors and make your gathering feel cozy and complete.

Whichever way you choose to serve it, your cake Christmas is bound to be the highlight of the table, bringing everyone together over delicious bites and joyful moments. Enjoy every scrumptious slice!

Cake Christmas: 7 Festive Flavors for Holiday Joy

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

A festive cake perfect for Christmas celebrations.

Instructions

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

Notes

Can be decorated with icing or powdered sugar.
Store in an airtight container.
Tastes better after a day or two as flavors meld.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 320
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: cake, christmas, holiday dessert, festive cake

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