Introduction
Christmas is a time for celebration, and one delightful tradition that many families cherish is baking a fruit cake. This Christmas cake recipe offers a moist and easy-to-follow approach, ensuring that even novice bakers can create a festive masterpiece. With a blend of fruits and spices, this cake is perfect for sharing with loved ones during the holiday season.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 1/2 cups mixed dried fruit
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts
– 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time
Preparation for the Christmas cake takes approximately 20 minutes, allowing you to gather all ingredients and prepare the batter for baking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The baking time for this moist fruitcake is about 1 hour. Once cooled, the total time invested in this recipe rounds up to 1 hour and 20 minutes. This recipe yields a delicious cake that serves about 10 people, making it an ideal dessert for holiday gatherings.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preparation of the Fruit Mixture
Soak mixed dried fruits in orange juice for 2 hours. Ensure that all fruits are thoroughly coated in the juice for the best flavor infusion.
Preparing the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). Grease and line a round cake tin with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and spices. Mix well to ensure the spices and baking powder are evenly distributed.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a moist cake texture.
Incorporating Eggs
Add eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition. Ensure that the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Combining Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; stop as soon as the flour mixture is incorporated.
Adding Soaked Fruits and Nuts
Gently stir in the soaked dried fruits and nuts into the batter. Make sure they are distributed evenly throughout the mixture.
Baking the Cake
Pour the cake batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 2 hours or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooling the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tin for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storing the Cake
Once cooled, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. This will help enhance its moisture and flavor over time.
Notes
Fruit Variations
Feel free to substitute the mixed dried fruits with your choice, such as raisins, apricots, or cranberries for different flavors.
Sugar Options
You can use lighter brown sugar for a milder flavor or stick to dark brown sugar for a richer taste.
Alcohol**
If desired, consider adding a splash of rum or whiskey to the soaked fruits for an extra depth of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This cake can be served plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar. It pairs well with a dollop of cream or a scoop of ice cream.
Storage Duration
The cake can last several weeks when stored properly. It can be wrapped and frozen for longer preservation if needed.
Cook techniques
Soaking the Fruit
Soaking the dried fruits in alcohol, such as rum or brandy, enhances their flavor and helps to keep the cake moist.
Mixing the Batter
Gently fold in the dry ingredients to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a denser cake.
Baking at Low Temperature
Bake the cake at a low temperature to ensure even cooking throughout and to prevent burning.
Using Parchment Paper
Line the cake pan with parchment paper to make removal easier and to help prevent sticking.
Storing the Cake
Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container to keep it moist.
FAQ
Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried fruits?
It is not recommended to use fresh fruits as they have a higher moisture content, which can affect the cake’s texture and baking time.
How long can I store the fruitcake?
When stored properly, fruitcake can last for several weeks or even months, making it ideal for holiday celebrations.
Can I make the cake in advance?
Yes, fruitcake improves in flavor over time, so it can be made weeks ahead of time and stored.
Is it necessary to add alcohol?
While alcohol helps to preserve the cake and adds flavor, it is not strictly necessary; you can substitute it with fruit juice if preferred.
What should I do if my cake is sinking in the middle?
A sinking cake can be due to underbaking or overmixing the batter, so be sure to bake thoroughly and handle the batter gently.
Conclusion
The moist and easy fruit cake is a wonderful addition to any holiday celebration. Its rich flavors and delightful texture make it a perennial favorite, while the versatility of ingredients allows for personal touches to suit individual tastes. With its ability to improve in flavor over time, this cake is perfect for making ahead of the festive season.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spiced Apple Cake
Try adding warm spices and grated apples for a delicious twist that embodies the essence of autumn.
Chocolate Fruit Cake
Incorporate cocoa powder and dark chocolate chunks for a decadent take on the traditional fruitcake.
Coconut Fruit Cake
Substitute some of the dried fruits with shredded coconut to create a tropical flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Nuts Delight Cake
Add a variety of nuts like walnuts, almonds, and pecans for added crunch and richness.
Glazed Orange Fruit Cake
Drizzle a citrus glaze over the cake after baking for a refreshing, tangy finish that complements the fruit flavors.