If you’re dreaming of a festive centerpiece that bursts with rich flavors, moist texture, and nostalgic charm, this Traditional Christmas Cake Recipe is exactly what you need on your holiday table. Filled with a luscious array of dried fruits, warming spices, and a splash of brandy, this cake captures the very essence of Christmas. Every bite wraps you in a cozy, celebratory hug, making it a timeless treat that brings family and friends together year after year.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Traditional Christmas Cake Recipe lies in its simple yet powerful ingredients, each carefully chosen to create a perfect balance of taste and texture. From the soft butter that lends moisture to the rich spices that evoke holiday warmth, every ingredient plays its part to make this cake unforgettable.
- Unsalted butter, 1 cup: Softened to create a smooth, creamy base for the batter.
- Dark brown sugar, 1 cup: Adds deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the spices.
- Large eggs, 4: Help bind the ingredients and provide structure for a tender crumb.
- All-purpose flour, 2 cups: The foundation of the cake, balancing moisture and firmness.
- Baking powder, 1 teaspoon: Lightens the cake, helping it rise to the perfect fluffiness.
- Cinnamon, 1 teaspoon: Delivers warm spice notes essential for holiday baking.
- Ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon: Adds subtle nutty undertones that deepen the flavor.
- Ground ginger, ½ teaspoon: Gives the cake a gentle zing and vibrant aroma.
- Ground cloves, ¼ teaspoon: Brings a rich, slightly sweet pungency perfect for Christmas.
- Mixed dried fruits, 1 cup: Raisins, sultanas, and currants contribute chewy bursts of sweetness.
- Dried cranberries, ½ cup: Offer a tart contrast and beautiful color.
- Mixed candied peel, ½ cup: Adds a delightful citrusy texture and sweetness.
- Glace cherries, 1 cup: Halved to disperse pops of vibrant red throughout.
- Chopped almonds, ¼ cup (optional): Introduce a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
- Orange zest: Gives a fresh, zesty brightness that lifts the richness.
- Lemon zest: Provides a subtle citrus backdrop for nuanced flavor.
- Brandy, ¼ cup plus extra for brushing: Infuses the cake with warmth and helps preserve its moistness.
How to Make Traditional Christmas Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by warming your oven to 300°F (150°C), creating the perfect slow-cooking environment. Grease and line a 9-inch round cake tin—this ensures your cake releases easily when baked, maintaining its beautiful shape.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Beat together the softened butter and dark brown sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process traps air, which will help your cake rise gently and develop a tender crumb.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Zest
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each to keep the batter smooth and emulsified. Stir in the fresh orange and lemon zests, giving the batter a fragrant, citrus kick that brightens every bite.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and warming spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Gradually fold this dry mix into your butter mixture, being careful not to overwork the batter, which could make the cake tough.
Step 5: Fold in Fruits, Nuts, and Brandy
Gently stir in the colorful blend of dried fruits, cranberries, candied peel, halved glace cherries, optional chopped almonds, and the brandy. These ingredients imbue the cake with texture, bursts of flavor, and that signature festive character.
Step 6: Bake Slowly and Steadily
Transfer the batter into your prepared tin and smooth the top. Bake in the oven for approximately 2 ½ to 3 hours, testing doneness by inserting a skewer—it should come out clean when the cake is perfectly cooked. If you notice the cake coloring too fast, tent it with foil to protect the surface while it finishes baking through.
Step 7: Cool and Store Properly
Allow the cake to cool completely in its tin before removing it. Brush the surface with extra brandy to keep it moist and fragrant, then wrap it tightly first in parchment paper and then in foil. Storing in an airtight container helps develop the flavors beautifully over time—this cake gets better with age!
Step 8: Optional Decoration
If you want to elevate your Traditional Christmas Cake Recipe into a showstopper, cover it with marzipan or fondant icing. Add a smooth layer of royal icing on top, then let your creativity shine by decorating with edible holly leaves, silver balls, or delicate snowflakes. It’ll not only taste incredible but look absolutely stunning on your holiday table.
How to Serve Traditional Christmas Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Traditional Christmas cake is perfectly accented by a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a smear of rich clotted cream. A sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg or cinnamon on top can add a lovely aromatic touch that sparks the senses.
Side Dishes
A piece of this festive cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of mulled wine, spiced tea, or classic eggnog. For a contrasting texture, serve with crunchy toffee shards or spiced nuts to create a full sensory experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the cake into small bite-sized pieces and serving on festive skewers with chunks of sharp cheese and nuts to make a fun holiday dessert board. Alternatively, cut thick slices and toast them lightly, then drizzle with warm brandy butter for a decadent treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake actually improves over days as the flavors meld. Keep it wrapped tightly in parchment and foil inside an airtight container, stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It’s great for up to a month, perfect for stretching your festive indulgence.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy the cake later or get ahead on holiday prep, freezing is a fantastic option. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw it slowly overnight in the fridge to retain that moist, tender texture.
Reheating
For an extra-comforting treat, warm individual slices gently in a low oven or microwave just until tender and fragrant. This brings back that freshly baked richness and enhances the brandy aroma beautifully.
FAQs
Can I make this cake without alcohol?
Absolutely! You can substitute the brandy with fruit juice, apple cider, or even strong black tea for moisture and added flavor. Keep in mind some of that distinctive warmth might be missing, but it will still be wonderfully tasty.
How long does the Traditional Christmas Cake Recipe last?
Properly stored, this cake can keep well for up to a month, allowing the flavors to develop and deepen. Just be sure to wrap it tightly and store it in a cool place.
Can I use different dried fruits?
Yes! Feel free to customize with your favorite dried fruits or nuts. Just keep the total quantity consistent to maintain the cake’s texture and balance of flavors.
Is it okay to decorate the cake the same day I bake it?
It’s best to let the cake mature for several days before decorating, so the flavors settle and the texture firms up slightly. Decorating too early can result in a softer surface that may not hold the icing well.
Why bake the cake at a low temperature for so long?
Slow baking ensures an even cook throughout without drying the cake, keeping it moist while allowing all those rich flavors from spices and fruits to meld beautifully.
Final Thoughts
If you’re yearning to bring tradition, warmth, and true festive joy to your holiday celebrations, this Traditional Christmas Cake Recipe is a must-try. Its lovingly layered flavors and tender crumb are sure to become a cherished part of your Christmas memories. I can’t wait for you to share it with your loved ones and watch their faces light up with each bite.
Print
Traditional Christmas Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 9-inch round cake, serves about 12
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
A rich and fruity Traditional Christmas Cake, packed with dried fruits, spices, and a hint of brandy. This cake is slow-baked to perfection, making it moist and flavorful, perfect for festive celebrations and long-term storage.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, sultanas, currants)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup mixed candied peel
- 1 cup glace cherries, halved
- ¼ cup chopped almonds (optional)
- Zest of 1 orange
- Zest of 1 lemon
- ¼ cup brandy (plus extra for brushing)
For Decorating (Optional):
- Marzipan or fondant icing
- Royal icing
- Edible decorations (like holly leaves, silver balls, or snowflakes)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake tin with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and dark brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the cake.
- Add Eggs and Zest: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then fold in the zest of one orange and one lemon to add citrus fragrance.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and ground spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the butter and egg mixture, being careful not to overmix to keep the batter light.
- Add Fruits, Nuts, and Brandy: Stir in the mixed dried fruits, dried cranberries, candied peel, glace cherries, chopped almonds if using, and the brandy. This combination infuses the cake with rich flavors and moisture.
- Bake the Cake: Spoon the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top flat. Bake in the preheated oven for 2 ½ to 3 hours. To prevent the cake from browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil if needed. To test doneness, insert a skewer into the center; it should come out clean.
- Cool and Store: Allow the cake to cool completely in the tin. Once cooled, brush the top and sides with extra brandy to keep it moist and enhance the flavor. Wrap the cake tightly with parchment paper and foil, then store in an airtight container for up to a month to develop its taste.
- Optional Decoration: When ready to serve, you may cover the cake with marzipan or fondant icing. Finish with royal icing and decorate with edible accents like holly leaves, silver balls, or snowflakes to make it festive.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, feed the cake with brandy every few days while storing.
- This cake improves in taste the longer it is stored, making it ideal to prepare well in advance for Christmas.
- You can substitute almonds with other nuts like walnuts or pecans if preferred.
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before wrapping to avoid condensation and sogginess.
- If you prefer, soak the dried fruits in brandy or orange juice overnight for extra moisture.
- Use a slow cooker or oven at low heat to keep the cake moist if desired.
- Adjust spices to taste for more or less warmth and sweetness.
