Christmas Cake Recipe Old Fashioned

Vonbon Hill

2 min read

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22-11-2024

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The aroma of warm spices, the rich, dark fruit, the comforting weight of a perfectly baked cake – these are the hallmarks of a truly traditional Christmas cake. This recipe, passed down through generations, promises a festive treat that’s as delicious as it is nostalgic. Get ready to bake a slice of Christmas history!

Ingredients:

This recipe yields a generously sized cake, perfect for sharing (or enjoying a generous slice yourself!).

• 250g (2 cups) Dried Mixed Fruit: This is the heart of the cake! Use a blend of raisins, currants, sultanas, and cranberries for a complex flavor profile. Chopped candied peel adds a lovely citrus note.
• 175g (1 1/2 cups) Self-raising Flour: For a lighter texture, opt for self-raising. If using plain flour, add 2 teaspoons of baking powder.
• 175g (1 1/4 cups) Caster Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps create a moist crumb.
• 175g (6 oz) Butter, softened: Unsalted butter is preferred for better flavor control.
• 4 Large Eggs: Ensure they're at room temperature for optimal mixing.
• 1 Teaspoon Mixed Spice: Cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger create a warm, festive aroma.
• 1 Teaspoon Baking Powder (if using plain flour): This helps the cake rise evenly.
• 2 Tablespoons Brandy or Dark Rum (optional): Adds a lovely boozy depth to the flavor (omit for alcohol-free).
• Icing Sugar and Milk (for icing): For a simple yet elegant finish.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fruit: Soak the dried fruit in the brandy or rum (if using) overnight. This will plump up the fruit and infuse it with flavor. If you’re short on time, a few hours will suffice.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. This is best done using an electric mixer.
3. Add the Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is incorporated.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, mixed spice, and baking powder (if using).
5. Fold in the Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
6. Add the Fruit: Drain the soaked fruit and fold it gently into the batter.
7. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a well-greased and lined 20cm (8-inch) round cake tin. Bake in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F/Gas Mark 2) for approximately 2.5-3 hours, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Ice: Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, frost with a simple icing made from icing sugar and milk. Get creative with your decorations!

Tips for Success:

• Don't Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Fold the ingredients gently until just combined.
• Check for Doneness: Use a skewer or toothpick to check if the cake is baked through. If it comes out clean, it's ready.
• Store Properly: Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in cling film or foil to prevent it from drying out. It will keep for several weeks, allowing the flavors to deepen.

This old-fashioned Christmas cake is a labor of love, but the result is undeniably worth the effort. Enjoy the process, and savor every delicious bite!