Christmas Cake Recipe Nz

Vonbon Hill

2 min read

·

22-11-2024

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Christmas in New Zealand is a unique experience, often filled with sunshine and summery vibes. But one tradition that remains steadfast is the delicious Christmas cake. This recipe offers a Kiwi twist on this festive classic, incorporating local ingredients and flavours to create a truly special treat.

Ingredients:

This recipe yields a rich, moist cake perfect for sharing.

• Fruit:
  • 250g mixed dried fruit (sultanas, raisins, currants – consider adding some chopped cranberries for a pop of colour and tartness)
  • 100g chopped dried apricots (a distinctly Kiwi addition!)
  • 50g chopped dates (another local favourite)
  • 1 tbsp mixed spice
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp brandy or rum (optional, but enhances flavour)
• Cake:
  • 200g unsalted butter, softened
  • 200g caster sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 200g self-raising flour
  • 50g ground almonds (adds richness and texture)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • Zest of 1 orange (for a bright, citrusy note)
• Icing & Decoration:
  • 200g icing sugar
  • 4-6 tbsp milk
  • Festive sprinkles, glace cherries, and candied peel (to your liking)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fruit: In a large bowl, combine all the dried fruit, spices, and brandy (if using). Mix well and set aside to soak for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is crucial for a moist cake.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar: Cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. This is best achieved using an electric mixer.

3. Add Eggs: Gradually add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients evenly.

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

5. Fold in Ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, alternating with the soaked fruit mixture. Do this carefully to avoid knocking out too much air.

6. Add Zest: Stir in the orange zest.

7. Bake: Pour the batter into a greased and lined 20cm round cake tin. Bake in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for approximately 2-2.5 hours, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool: Let the cake cool completely in the tin before turning it out onto a wire rack.

9. Make the Icing: Once the cake is completely cool, whisk together the icing sugar and milk until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.

10. Ice and Decorate: Ice the cake generously with the icing and decorate with your chosen festive sprinkles, cherries, and candied peel.

Tips for Success:

• Soaking is Key: The longer the fruit soaks, the more flavour it will impart to the cake.
• Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough cake.
• Check for Doneness: Use a skewer to check if the cake is baked through. If it comes out with wet batter, bake for a little longer.
• Get Creative: Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits and spices to create your own unique flavour combinations.

Enjoy your delicious, uniquely Kiwi Christmas cake! Merry Christmas!