The traditional Christmas cake is a rich and moist fruitcake, often made with a mix of dried fruits, nuts, and spices. The key ingredients include raisins, currants, and candied peel, soaked in alcohol for flavor. The cake is generously spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, giving it a warm and festive aroma. It is typically adorned with a layer of marzipan and icing, creating a sweet and decorative finish. Served during the holiday season, this classic Christmas dessert is a symbol of joy and celebration, enjoyed by families around the world.
Ingredients:
For the Fruit Mixture:
- 500g (about 3 1/2 cups) mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas, candied peel)
- 150g (1 cup) glace cherries, halved
- 100g (2/3 cup) chopped almonds or mixed nuts
- Zest and juice of 1 orange
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 150ml (2/3 cup) brandy or rum
For Cake:
- 250g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 250g (1 cup) brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
For Decorating Cake:
- 500g (1 lb) marzipan
- 500g (1 lb) royal icing (ready-made or homemade)
Also Read: The Simple Chocolate Cream Cake for this Christmas
Instructions:
- Prepare the Fruit Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits, halved glace cherries, chopped nuts, orange zest, lemon zest, and the juice of both the orange and lemon. Pour the brandy or rum over the fruit mixture, cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and let it soak overnight or for at least 8 hours.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Line a 9-inch round cake tin with parchment paper.
- Make the Cake Batter: In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice). Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the egg and butter mixture until you have a smooth batter. Stir in the soaked fruit mixture until evenly distributed.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared cake tin, and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 3 to 3 1/2 hours, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the cake begins to brown too quickly, cover it with foil. Allow the cake to cool completely in the tin before removing it.
- Decorating: Roll out the marzipan to fit the top of the cake and use it to cover the cake’s surface. Roll out the royal icing and use it to cover the marzipan layer.
You can decorate the icing with festive designs, shapes, or even use food coloring to add color.
Your authentic Christmas cake is now ready to be enjoyed! Remember to store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for a few weeks to allow the flavors to mature. Enjoy this festive treat with your loved ones during the holiday season.
