When the holiday season rolls around, the kitchen transforms into a haven of warmth and cheer. The idea of crafting an Easy Moist Christmas Cake brings a delightful thrill that ignites my festive spirit and floods my senses with nostalgia. As dried fruits simmer in apple juice, filling the kitchen with their sweet scent, I’m transported back to cozy family gatherings where laughter and love mingled with delicious aromas.
This recipe is more than just a cake; it’s a treasured tradition that effortlessly brings joy to any holiday table. Picture a beautifully moist cake, rich with the flavors of spices and fruits, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo with a cup of tea. Best of all, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it an ideal project for both seasoned bakers and those new to the kitchen.
So roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and let’s create a scrumptious holiday masterpiece that’s sure to impress, no matter how busy the season gets!
Why You'll Love This Easy Moist Christmas Cake
- This Easy Moist Christmas Cake is a breeze to make, even for novice bakers, ensuring that anyone can enjoy the holiday cheer without stress.
- The incredible blend of spices and fruits creates an exceptional flavor profile that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.
- Its versatility means you can customize decorations to fit your holiday theme, making it a stunning centerpiece on any festive table.
- Plus, this cake is an absolute crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings, ensuring that everyone will be asking for seconds.
Easy Moist Christmas Cake Ingredients
For the Fruit Mixture
• Raisins – 300g, for a naturally sweet flavor that adds depth to the cake.
• Dried apricots – 150g, chopped for a chewy texture and bright color.
• Mixed peel – 75g, finely chopped to bring a citrusy zing.
• Glacé cherries – 150g, chopped for a festive touch and sweetness.
• Dates – 180g, diced to enhance the cake's moisture with natural sweetness.
For the Wet Ingredients
• Apple juice – 1 cup + 2 tbsp, or for a festive twist, substitute with ⅓ cup brandy + ⅔ cup juice.
• Unsalted butter – 120g, softened to ensure a rich and tender crumb.
• Dark brown sugar – 1 ½ cups, or light brown sugar if preferred, for a deeper caramel flavor.
• Vegetable oil – ½ cup, adds moisture and keeps the cake tender.
• Molasses – 3 tbsp, or golden syrup, for an extra layer of flavor.
For the Dry Ingredients
• Salt – ½ tsp, to balance the sweetness.
• Allspice – ½ tsp, for warmth and a touch of spice.
• Cinnamon – ½ tsp, adds a cozy aroma that enchants the senses.
• Nutmeg – ½ tsp, to elevate the festive flavor profile.
• Large eggs – 3, essential for binding and structure.
• Baking powder – ½ tsp, to help the cake rise beautifully.
• All-purpose flour – 1 ⅔ cups, the base of this Easy Moist Christmas Cake, creating a delightful texture.
Optional Ingredients
• Chopped walnuts – ¾ cup, a crunchy addition for extra texture.
• Pouring custard – 500ml, perfect for serving alongside the cake.
• Marzipan – 250g, for a classic decorative touch.
• White fondant – 250g, optional for a smooth finish.
• Cherries, icing sugar, white glaze – for decorative elements to enhance presentation.
How to Make Easy Moist Christmas Cake
-
Soak the Fruit: Place the chopped dried fruit and apple juice or brandy in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 1.5 minutes until hot, then stir, cover, and let soak for 1 hour. This step ensures the fruit absorbs moisture for a luscious texture.
-
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) or 140°C for fan-assisted baking. Grease and line an 8–9 inch round cake pan. A well-prepared pan helps the cake release easily after baking!
-
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and dark brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Then, incorporate the vegetable oil and molasses, blending until well combined.
-
Mix in Spices: Add the salt, allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the mixture. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next for a rich flavor profile.
-
Combine the Dry Ingredients: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Once mixed, add the soaked fruit along with any remaining liquid and walnuts for extra crunch, if desired.
-
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, cover with foil, and bake for 2.5 hours. Check for doneness by removing the foil and baking for an additional 30–45 minutes until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
-
Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. This cooling period allows the flavors to settle before serving. Enjoy it once fully cooled for the best texture!
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of pouring custard for a decadent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Moist Christmas Cakes are perfect for busy moments during the holiday season! You can prepare the fruit mixture by soaking the chopped dried fruits in apple juice or brandy up to 24 hours in advance. Simply microwave the mixture for 1.5 minutes and let it sit covered for an hour. For the cake batter, you can mix the dry ingredients and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just allow the batter to come to room temperature before pouring it into the pan and baking. This way, you'll maintain the cake's delightful moisture and flavor, ensuring it’s just as delicious when you serve it fresh!
What to Serve with Easy Moist Christmas Cake?
The holiday table isn’t complete without the right accompaniments to this delightfully spiced creation.
-
Pouring Custard: A luxurious drizzle of warm custard enhances the flavors and adds creaminess, making each bite a heavenly experience.
-
Fresh Berries: A mix of raspberries or cranberries brings a tart contrast, brightening the rich sweetness of the cake with a pop of color and flavor.
-
Spiced Tea: Pair with a cup of ginger or chai tea to mirror the warming spices in the cake. This comforting duo creates a cozy moment on chilly days.
-
Coffee: A rich espresso complements the cake's sweetness, making it the perfect afternoon treat to bring everyone together.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream against the moist cake creates a delightful contrast—simply irresistible!
-
Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses paired with the cake can create an unexpected but delightful savory-sweet balance, inviting everyone to indulge.
-
Chocolate Fondue: Dipping slices of cake into a warm chocolate fondue adds another level of decadence—perfect for a festive celebration!
-
Mulled Wine: A warm glass of mulled wine, rich with spices and citrus, serves as a delightful drink that beautifully complements the flavors in the cake.
-
Dark Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling dark chocolate sauce over slices elevates the dessert experience. The richness harmonizes perfectly with the cake’s spiced sweetness.
Enjoy crafting a full festive meal that brings joy and warmth to your holiday gatherings!
Easy Moist Christmas Cake Variations
Feel free to explore your creativity in the kitchen with these simple twists on the classic recipe!
-
Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts and replace them with ¾ cup of pumpkin seeds for added crunch without the nuts.
-
Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Most blends work great here for a deliciously moist cake.
-
Fruit Medley: Get adventurous by using different dried fruits, like figs or cranberries, for a unique flavor combination. Each bite will be a delightful surprise!
-
Spice It Up: Want more warmth? Increase cinnamon and nutmeg to 1 teaspoon each for an autumnal explosion of flavors, perfect for cozying up around the fire.
-
Citrus Zest: Adding the zest of an orange or lemon brightens the batter, infusing your cake with a refreshing brightness that balances the richness beautifully.
-
Vegan Delight: Replace eggs with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg and use coconut oil instead of butter for a compassionate version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
-
Boozy Boost: For adults only, use spiced rum instead of apple juice for a festive twist that packs a flavorful punch, evoking memories of holiday cheer.
-
Decadent Drizzle: Top your cake with a warm caramel sauce or a rich chocolate ganache drizzled over the cooled cake for an indulgent finish that feels extra special.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Moist Christmas Cake
Room Temperature: Keep your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor while preventing it from drying out.
Fridge: If you'd like to extend its shelf life, store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from absorbing any odors.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to preserve its moisture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy your Easy Moist Christmas Cake, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Warm slices gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a cozy, fresh-from-the-oven experience!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Easy Moist Christmas Cake, soaking the dried fruit not only enhances the flavor but also keeps the cake moist, so don't skip this step.
- Ensure to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy to incorporate air, which helps in achieving a tender crumb.
- When mixing in the spices, make sure they are evenly distributed to ensure every bite is flavorful, and remember to add eggs one at a time for proper emulsification.
- Baking at the correct temperature is crucial, so invest in an oven thermometer to verify your oven's accuracy and check for doneness by slicing into the cake rather than relying solely on time.
Easy Moist Christmas Cake Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe dried fruit for the cake?
Absolutely! When choosing dried fruit, look for options without added sugars or preservatives. The fruit should feel plump and slightly moist, with vibrant colors—avoid any that are excessively shriveled or have dark spots all over, as these may indicate spoilage or lack of flavor.
How should I store the Easy Moist Christmas Cake to keep it fresh?
For optimal freshness, store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To extend its life, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in the fridge, where it can last up to 2 weeks. Keeping it properly sealed helps maintain its moisture and depth of flavor.
Can I freeze my Easy Moist Christmas Cake, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in multiple layers of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This will protect it from freezer burn and maintain its moisture. You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—pure bliss!
What should I do if my cake comes out too dry?
If you find that your cake is dry after baking, there are a few things you can do to revive it. Drizzle simple syrup (made of equal parts sugar and water heated until dissolved) over the cake to add moisture. Alternatively, serve it with a rich pouring custard which can enhance the overall experience and hide any dryness.
Are there any dietary considerations for the Easy Moist Christmas Cake?
Certainly! If you have guests with common allergies, consider using gluten-free all-purpose flour and checking that your dried fruits are free from added sugars or allergens. For those with nut allergies, simply omit the walnuts and choose a nut-free recipe for decoration. As always, it’s wise to inquire about any specific dietary restrictions before serving.
How can I ensure the spices are evenly distributed in the cake?
To ensure your spices are evenly distributed, I recommend combining them with the flour before folding into your batter. This helps to avoid clumps and guarantees that every slice is bursting with the cozy flavors you’ve incorporated. Mixing them in right at the beginning makes a world of difference in flavor distribution throughout!
Easy Moist Christmas Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the fruit: Place the chopped dried fruit and apple juice or brandy in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 1.5 minutes until hot, then stir, cover, and let soak for 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) or 140°C for fan-assisted baking. Grease and line an 8–9 inch round cake pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and dark brown sugar until smooth. Incorporate the vegetable oil and molasses.
- Add the salt, allspice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Beat in the eggs one at a time.
- Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and baking powder, then add the soaked fruit and walnuts.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan, cover with foil, and bake for 2.5 hours. Check for doneness.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Leave a Reply