Christmas Cake Recipe Australia

Vonbon Hill

2 min read

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22-11-2024

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Christmas in Australia is synonymous with sunshine, barbeques, and – surprisingly – rich, decadent Christmas cakes. While our festive season might differ climatically from traditional Christmas celebrations, our love for a good fruitcake remains steadfast. This recipe offers a delicious, Australian-inspired take on this classic dessert.

A Unique Aussie Christmas Cake

This recipe isn't your grandmother's heavy, overly-fruity Christmas cake. We've tweaked the traditional recipe to incorporate some uniquely Australian ingredients and flavours, resulting in a lighter, more refreshing take on this festive favourite. The subtle hint of citrus and the inclusion of local nuts creates a delicious balance, perfectly complementing the traditional spices.

Ingredients:

• 250g dried mixed fruit: Choose a mix including sultanas, raisins, currants, and cranberries. Consider adding some chopped dried apricots for extra flavour.
• 100g chopped mixed nuts: Macadamia nuts, pecans, or even roasted peanuts add a lovely crunch and a uniquely Australian touch.
• 100ml brandy or rum: Soak the fruit in this overnight for enhanced flavour.
• 200g plain flour: Sieve this for a lighter texture.
• 200g caster sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with texture.
• 1 tsp baking powder: For a lovely rise.
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon: A classic Christmas spice.
• ¼ tsp ground cloves: Adds warmth and depth of flavour.
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg: A subtle but important spice.
• 175g unsalted butter, softened: Ensures a moist and tender cake.
• 4 large eggs: At room temperature for best results.
• Zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon: Adds brightness and a refreshing citrus note.
• 1 tbsp milk: For adjusting consistency if needed.
• Icing and decorations of your choice: Get creative!

Instructions:

1. Soak the fruit: Combine the mixed fruit and nuts with the brandy or rum in a bowl. Cover and leave overnight (or for at least 4 hours) to allow the fruit to plump up and absorb the alcohol.
2. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Grease and line a 20cm round cake tin.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
4. Cream Butter & Sugar: Cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add Eggs: Gradually add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. Add Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. Add Fruit & Zest: Stir in the soaked fruit, along with the orange and lemon zest. Add a tablespoon of milk if the mixture is too thick.
8. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared tin and bake for approximately 2-2.5 hours, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
9. Cool: Allow the cake to cool completely in the tin before icing and decorating.

Icing and Decorating Ideas:

Use your creativity! Classic marzipan and royal icing are always a winner. For an Aussie twist, consider using a passionfruit curd icing or a white chocolate ganache with fresh Australian berries.

Enjoy your delicious, uniquely Australian Christmas cake! Remember to share your creations with friends and family this festive season.