Christmas Cake Recipe: A Holiday Deligh

Christmas is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate the festive season than with a delicious homemade Christmas cake? This rich, flavorful cake, brimming with fruits and spices, is a holiday staple that brings joy to any gathering. Follow this tried-and-true recipe to create a show-stopping cake that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed

• 4 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup molasses

• 1/2 cup orange juice

• 1 cup chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts)

• 2 cups mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, currants, and candied orange peel)

For the Frosting:

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2-3 tablespoons milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Festive decorations (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and salt.

3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Gradually mix in the molasses and orange juice. Add the flour mixture in batches, mixing until just combined.

5. Fold in the chopped nuts and mixed dried fruits.

   
   

2. Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.

2. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

   
   

3. Frost and Decorate

1. In a medium bowl, beat the powdered sugar, butter, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

2. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.

3. Add your favorite festive decorations, like sprinkles, edible glitter, or even some extra dried fruits and nuts.

There you have it—a scrumptious Christmas cake that's sure to impress your family and friends. This cake is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Enjoy the baking process and savor every delicious bite!