Jessica’s Magical Christmas Cake Recipe
Introduction
Jessica’s Magical Christmas Cake is a festive treat that brings warmth and tradition to your holiday table. This rich, dense cake is packed with dried fruit and aromatic spices, perfect for celebrating the season.
Ingredients
- Dried fruit (such as raisins, currants, and chopped dates) – 2 cups
- All-purpose flour – 2 cups
- Butter – 1 cup (softened)
- Eggs – 3 large
- Mixed spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves) – 2 teaspoons
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and flour a cake pan.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth. Gradually beat in the eggs one at a time.
- Step 3: Combine the flour and mixed spices in a separate bowl, then slowly add to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Step 4: Fold in the dried fruit evenly into the batter.
- Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 6: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, soak the dried fruit in brandy or orange juice overnight before using.
- Swap out mixed spices for your favorite warm spice blend or add a hint of vanilla extract for a different twist.
- If you prefer a lighter texture, you can replace half the butter with applesauce.
Storage
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or enjoy at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?
Fresh fruit contains more moisture, which can change the texture of the cake. It’s best to use dried fruit or drain fresh fruit well and adjust the baking time accordingly.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done baking.
PrintJessica’s Magical Christmas Cake Recipe
Jessica’s Magical Christmas Cake is a rich and dense holiday dessert filled with traditional dried fruits and warm spices. This classic Christmas cake combines butter, eggs, and a blend of fragrant spices, creating a moist and flavorful treat perfect for festive celebrations.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus soaking time if soaking fruits overnight)
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (excluding soaking time)
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
Dried Fruit
- 2 cups mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, chopped dates, and glacé cherries)
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup brandy or orange juice (optional, for soaking fruits)
Instructions
- Prepare the dried fruits: If desired, soak the dried fruits in brandy or orange juice for at least 1 hour or overnight to enhance moisture and flavor. Drain before use.
- Mix the batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. In another bowl, sift together the flour, spices, and baking powder. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, then gently fold in the dried fruits.
- Bake the cake: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the pan, spreading evenly. Bake for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake is rich and dense.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before removing. This cake improves in flavor when stored wrapped for a few days, making it ideal for preparing ahead for the holidays.
Notes
- Soaking the dried fruits overnight enhances moisture and flavor but is optional.
- You can substitute brandy with orange juice for a non-alcoholic version.
- Store the cake wrapped in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend.
Keywords: Christmas cake, holiday cake, dried fruit cake, spiced cake, festive dessert
