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Christmas Cake No Nuts Recipe

Christmas Cake No Nuts Recipe

2 min read 22-11-2024
Christmas Cake No Nuts Recipe

The holidays are fast approaching, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious, festive Christmas cake? This recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic, perfect for those who prefer a nut-free experience. Let's get baking!

Ingredients:

  • For the Cake:
    • 175g (6 oz) softened unsalted butter
    • 175g (6 oz) caster sugar
    • 4 large eggs
    • 175g (6 oz) self-raising flour
    • 1 tsp baking powder
    • 1 tsp mixed spice
    • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
    • Zest of 1 orange
    • 1 tbsp milk
    • 1 tbsp brandy or orange juice (optional)
  • For the Icing:
    • 225g (8 oz) icing sugar
    • 50g (2 oz) softened unsalted butter
    • 2-3 tbsp milk
    • Red and green food coloring (optional)
    • Festive sprinkles (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Cake:

  1. Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F/Gas Mark 2). Grease and flour a 20cm (8 inch) round cake tin.
  2. Cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is best achieved using an electric mixer.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
  4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, mixed spice, and cinnamon.
  5. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  6. Stir in the orange zest and brandy or orange juice (if using).
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Making the Icing:

  1. Once the cake is completely cool, prepare the icing. Beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
  2. Gradually add the icing sugar, beating until smooth.
  3. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
  4. If using, add food coloring to achieve your preferred festive colors.

3. Decorating the Cake:

  1. Once the icing is ready, frost the cake generously.
  2. Decorate with festive sprinkles (optional).

Tips and Variations:

  • For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of caster sugar.
  • Dried cranberries or cherries can be added to the batter for extra festive flavor and texture.
  • A layer of jam can be added between two cake layers for an even more indulgent treat.
  • Get creative with your decoration! Use different types of sprinkles, edible glitter, or even create a simple design with the icing.

This nut-free Christmas cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser this holiday season. Enjoy baking and happy holidays!