Christmas Cake Recipe Ireland

Vonbon Hill

2 min read

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22-11-2024

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Christmas in Ireland wouldn't be the same without the rich, fruity aroma of a well-made Christmas cake. This recipe offers a classic take on this beloved festive treat, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:

  • 225g/8oz butter, softened
  • 225g/8oz dark brown sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 225g/8oz self-raising flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp mixed spice
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ tsp ground cloves
  • 200g/7oz mixed dried fruit (raisins, sultanas, currants, cranberries)
  • 100g/3.5oz chopped candied peel
  • 50g/1.75oz glacé cherries, halved
  • 2 tbsp Irish whiskey (optional, but highly recommended!)
  • 1 tbsp black treacle (optional, adds depth of flavour)

• For the Icing:

  • 250g/9oz icing sugar
  • 2-3 tbsp milk
  • 1 tbsp apricot jam, melted (for glazing)

Instructions:

1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 150°C/300°F/Gas Mark 2. Grease and line a 20cm/8 inch round cake tin.

2. Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This is best done with an electric mixer.

3. Add Eggs: Gradually beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

4. Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and spices.

5. Combine: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix.

6. Fruit & Flavour: Stir in the mixed dried fruit, candied peel, glacé cherries, whiskey (if using), and black treacle (if using).

7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared tin and bake for 2-2 ½ hours, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

8. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Make the Icing: Once the cake is completely cool, whisk together the icing sugar and milk until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency.

10. Ice & Glaze: Spread the icing evenly over the top of the cake. Brush the top with the melted apricot jam for a lovely sheen.

11. Store: Store the iced cake in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It will keep for several weeks, allowing the flavours to mature and deepen.

Serving Suggestions:

This rich cake is delicious served on its own, with a dollop of cream or custard, or even with a warm brandy butter. Enjoy!

Note: This recipe can be easily adapted to your preferences. Feel free to adjust the amount of fruit or spices to your liking. For a richer flavour, consider soaking the dried fruit in whiskey or brandy overnight before adding it to the batter. Happy baking!