15 Dark Christmas Cake Recipe Uk Savor The Mouthwatering Goodness!
Published on: Apr 28, 2024
The Christmas season is just around the corner, and for many people in the UK, that means one thing - it's time to start planning for the traditional holiday feast. While turkey, ham, and all the trimmings may be the stars of the show, no Christmas meal is complete without a slice of rich, decadent dark Christmas cake. This iconic dessert has been a staple of British holiday celebrations for centuries, and for good reason. With its deep, spicy flavors and dense, moist texture, dark Christmas cake is the perfect indulgence to round off the festivities. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the history of this beloved dessert and provide you with a professional and well-organized recipe to make your very own dark Christmas cake at home.
Christmas is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious Christmas cake? From traditional fruit cakes to modern twists, there is a Christmas cake recipe for everyone to enjoy. Here are 20 mouth-watering recipes to make your holiday season even more festive.
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Cranberry Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Sugar, Butter, Vanilla, Flour, Fresh Cranberries
This cranberry Christmas cake is a beautiful and festive addition to any holiday table. The tartness of the cranberries perfectly balances the sweetness of the cake, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the vibrant red color adds a pop of holiday cheer to the dessert table.
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, White Sugar, Brown Sugar, All Purpose
The Yule log cake, also known as the Christmas log cake, is a traditional dessert that originated in France. This ultimate Christmas Yule log cake recipe takes the classic dessert to the next level with its rich chocolate sponge cake and decadent chocolate ganache filling. It's the perfect centerpiece for any Christmas feast.
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Simple Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar, All Purpose Flour
If you're short on time but still want to impress your guests with a delicious Christmas cake, this simple recipe is for you. Made with basic pantry ingredients, this cake is easy to make but still packs a festive flavor with the addition of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
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Moist Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Fruit, Vanilla Extract, Malt Syrup, Sherry, Glucose
There's nothing worse than a dry Christmas cake, but with this recipe, you'll never have to worry about that again. This moist Christmas cake is made with a combination of butter and oil, making it incredibly rich and moist. Paired with a creamy vanilla frosting, it's a holiday treat that everyone will love.
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Pandoro Christmas Tree Cake (Italian Christmas Cake)
Main Ingredients: Cake, Mascarpone, Vin Santo, Powdered Sugar
If you're looking for a unique Christmas cake recipe, look no further than this Pandoro Christmas tree cake. This Italian cake is shaped like a Christmas tree and is made with a rich, buttery dough. It's the perfect dessert to impress your guests with this holiday season.
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Fruit Cake - Plum Cake - Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt
There's no Christmas cake more classic than a fruit or plum cake. This recipe combines both, making for a delicious and traditional holiday treat. Packed with dried fruits and nuts, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Cranberry & Lime Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Sugar, Butter, Vanilla, Lime, Flour, Fresh
This cranberry and lime Christmas cake is a refreshing twist on the classic fruit cake. The tanginess of the lime pairs perfectly with the tartness of the cranberries, making for a bright and flavorful dessert. Plus, the bright red cranberries add a festive touch to the cake.
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Pistachio Cherry Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: White Or Yellow Cake Mix, Water, Pudding Mix
This pistachio cherry Christmas cake is a show-stopping dessert that is sure to impress your guests. The bright red cherries add a pop of color to the cake, while the pistachios add a delightful crunch. It's a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors.
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Fruit Cake | Christmas Cake | Plum Cake
Main Ingredients: Oil, Eggs, Spice, Baking Powder, Vanilla Essence, Lemon
If you can't decide between a fruit cake, Christmas cake, or plum cake, why not have all three? This recipe combines all three to create a delicious and festive holiday treat. The combination of dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices makes for a rich and flavorful cake.
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Cranberry Almond Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Unsalted Butter, Almond
This cranberry almond Christmas cake is a perfect dessert for those with nut allergies. Made with almond flour, it's gluten-free and has a lovely nutty flavor. The tartness of the cranberries balances out the sweetness of the cake, making it a delicious holiday treat for everyone to enjoy.
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Plum Cake, Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Brown Sugar, Melted Butter, Maida, Baking Powder
This plum cake, also known as a Christmas cake in some parts of the world, is a traditional holiday dessert that is sure to bring back memories of Christmases past. Made with juicy plums and warm spices, it's a delicious and comforting cake that is perfect for the holiday season.
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Easy Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Firmly Packed Brown Sugar, Eggs, Orange
If you're short on time but still want to impress your guests with a homemade Christmas cake, this easy recipe is for you. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this cake is quick and easy to make but still packs a festive flavor. It's the perfect last-minute addition to any holiday celebration.
This dark Christmas cake is perfect for those who prefer a richer, darker cake. Made with dark brown sugar and dark chocolate, it has a deep, caramel-like flavor that pairs perfectly with the warm spices and dried fruits. It's a must-try for any chocolate lover.
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Classic Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Raisins, Sultanas, Dried Apricots, Dried Figs, Wine
This classic Christmas cake recipe is a tried and true favorite for many families. Made with a combination of dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, it's a deliciously rich and flavorful cake that is perfect for any holiday celebration.
No Christmas celebration is complete without sugar cookies. These festive cookies are not only delicious but also make for a fun and festive activity to do with your family. Use brightly-colored icing and festive Christmas cookie cutters to make them even more special.
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Christmas Peppermint Meringue Swirls
Main Ingredients: Egg Whites, Cream Of Tartar, Sugar, Peppermint Extract
These Christmas peppermint meringue swirls are a light and airy dessert that is perfect for the holiday season. The addition of peppermint extract and crushed candy canes gives them a festive touch, making them a perfect addition to any holiday dessert spread.
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Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Pizza Bread
Main Ingredients: Finely Grated Parmesan Reggiano Cheese, Pizza Dough
Looking for a savory Christmas treat? This Christmas tree pull-apart pizza bread is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Made with store-bought pizza dough and your favorite pizza toppings, it's an easy and delicious way to add some holiday cheer to your meal.
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Dark Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
Main Ingredients: Dark Chocolate, Dried Cranberries, Pecans, Unsalted
These dark chocolate cranberry cookies are a decadent and indulgent treat for the holiday season. The combination of dark chocolate and tart cranberries is a match made in heaven, making these cookies perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
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Healthy Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Mixed Dried Fruit, Ground Cinnamon, Extract, Nutmeg
Just because it's the holiday season doesn't mean you can't enjoy a delicious and healthy dessert. This healthy Christmas cake is made with whole wheat flour and natural sweeteners, making it a guilt-free treat that you can feel good about indulging in.
Christmas is a time to indulge in delicious treats and what better way to celebrate the festive season than with a homemade Christmas cake? Whether you prefer a traditional fruit cake or a modern twist, there are endless variations to try. So, get your baking apron on and let's explore the top 20 Christmas cake recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends.
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Cranberry Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Sugar, Butter, Vanilla, Flour, Fresh Cranberries
If you love the tart and tangy flavor of cranberries, then this cranberry Christmas cake is a must-try. The combination of moist vanilla cake and juicy cranberries creates a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, the vibrant red color of the cranberries adds a festive touch to the cake. It's a showstopper dessert that will be the star of your Christmas party.
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, White Sugar, Brown Sugar, All Purpose
Also known as a Christmas log cake, this traditional dessert is a classic French creation that has been enjoyed for centuries. This rich and decadent cake is made with a light and airy sponge, filled with cream and rolled into a log shape. The best part? You can decorate it with chocolate shavings, fresh berries, or even a dusting of powdered sugar to make it look like a real log.
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Simple Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar, All Purpose Flour
If you're short on time or don't consider yourself a skilled baker, then this simple Christmas cake is the perfect recipe for you. It's quick, easy, and requires minimal ingredients. This moist and flavorful cake is made with pantry staples like flour, sugar, butter, and eggs. To add a festive touch, you can top it with a layer of icing and some Christmas sprinkles.
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Moist Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Fruit, Vanilla Extract, Malt Syrup, Sherry, Glucose
One of the biggest challenges with fruit cakes is keeping them moist. But fear not, as this recipe for a moist Christmas cake will ensure your cake stays moist and flavorful for days. The secret ingredient? A splash of brandy or rum in the batter. This traditional fruit cake is packed with dried fruits, nuts, and spices, making it a delicious and traditional Christmas dessert.
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Pandoro Christmas Tree Cake (Italian Christmas Cake)
Main Ingredients: Cake, Mascarpone, Vin Santo, Powdered Sugar
Get a taste of Italy with this Pandoro Christmas tree cake. This is a traditional Italian Christmas cake that is shaped like a Christmas tree and dusted with powdered sugar to resemble snow. The cake itself is light and fluffy, with a hint of citrus. Serve it as a festive centerpiece at your Christmas dinner and watch it disappear in no time.
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Fruit Cake - Plum Cake - Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt
This recipe may have three names, but it's all the same delicious Christmas cake. This fruit cake is loaded with plump, juicy dried fruits and nuts, making it a popular choice for the holiday season. The addition of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice gives it a warm and cozy flavor that is perfect for Christmas. Serve it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
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Cranberry & Lime Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Sugar, Butter, Vanilla, Lime, Flour, Fresh
If you want to add a modern twist to your Christmas cake, then this cranberry and lime version is just the recipe for you. The combination of tangy cranberries and zesty lime creates a refreshing and unique flavor profile. It's a great alternative for those who don't enjoy traditional fruit cakes. Plus, the bright red and green colors make it a festive addition to any Christmas table.
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Pistachio Cherry Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: White Or Yellow Cake Mix, Water, Pudding Mix
Pistachios and cherries may not be the first ingredients that come to mind when you think of Christmas, but they make a surprisingly delicious combination in this cake. The vibrant green and red colors of the pistachios and cherries make it a visually stunning dessert. The addition of almond extract adds a subtle nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the fruits.
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Fruit Cake | Christmas Cake | Plum Cake
Main Ingredients: Oil, Eggs, Spice, Baking Powder, Vanilla Essence, Lemon
Don't let the name confuse you, this is another traditional fruit cake recipe that is a must-try for the holiday season. The beauty of this recipe is that you can use any dried fruits you have on hand, making it a versatile and budget-friendly option. So, if you have a mix of raisins, currants, cherries, and apricots in your pantry, this is the perfect cake to use them in.
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Cranberry Almond Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Unsalted Butter, Almond
The combination of cranberries and almonds is a match made in heaven, and this Christmas cake is proof of that. The tartness of the cranberries is balanced perfectly by the nutty and slightly sweet flavor of the almonds. It's a delicious and festive cake that is sure to impress your guests. You can also add a drizzle of white chocolate over the top for an extra touch of sweetness.
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Plum Cake, Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Brown Sugar, Melted Butter, Maida, Baking Powder
This plum cake is a classic Christmas dessert that is a staple in many homes during the holiday season. It's a rich and dense cake that is loaded with dried fruits and spices, making it a delicious treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. The longer you let it sit, the better it gets, so make sure to plan ahead and bake this cake a few days before Christmas.
This dark Christmas cake is a rich and decadent dessert that is perfect for those who love a strong and intense flavor. The combination of dark chocolate, coffee, and brandy creates a depth of flavor that is unmatched. It's a cake that is meant to be savored, so take your time and enjoy each bite. You can also decorate it with dried fruits and nuts for a festive touch.
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Classic Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Raisins, Sultanas, Dried Apricots, Dried Figs, Wine
If you're a fan of traditional Christmas cakes, then this classic recipe is a must-try. It's a moist and flavorful cake that is packed with dried fruits and nuts. The addition of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice gives it a warm and cozy flavor that is perfect for the holiday season. You can also top it with marzipan and icing to give it a beautiful and festive appearance.
Christmas wouldn't be complete without some festive sugar cookies. These cookies are easy to make and can be decorated in so many ways. You can use icing, sprinkles, or even edible glitter to make them look like stars, snowflakes, or Christmas trees. Get creative and have fun with decorating these delicious cookies.
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Christmas Peppermint Meringue Swirls
Main Ingredients: Egg Whites, Cream Of Tartar, Sugar, Peppermint Extract
If you're looking for a light and airy dessert to serve on Christmas day, then these peppermint meringue swirls are the perfect choice. They are crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside, with a subtle minty flavor. The red and white swirls make them look like little candy canes, adding a festive touch to your dessert table.
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Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Pizza Bread
Main Ingredients: Finely Grated Parmesan Reggiano Cheese, Pizza Dough
If you're tired of the traditional sweet Christmas desserts, then this savory Christmas tree pull-apart pizza bread is a fun and delicious alternative. The dough is shaped into a Christmas tree and filled with your favorite pizza toppings. You can use pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, or any other toppings you like. Serve it as an appetizer or a main dish, and watch it disappear in no time.
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Dark Chocolate Cranberry Cookies
Main Ingredients: Dark Chocolate, Dried Cranberries, Pecans, Unsalted
For all the chocolate lovers out there, these dark chocolate cranberry cookies are a must-try. The combination of rich dark chocolate and tart cranberries creates a flavor explosion in your mouth. The best part? These cookies are gluten-free and vegan, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions. You can also add some chopped pecans for a bit of crunch.
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Healthy Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Mixed Dried Fruit, Ground Cinnamon, Extract, Nutmeg
If you're trying to eat healthier during the holiday season, this healthy Christmas cake is the perfect guilt-free treat. It's made with wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour, honey, and applesauce, making it a healthier alternative to traditional Christmas cakes. But don't worry, it's still packed with delicious dried fruits and spices, so you won't feel like you're missing out.
Last but not least, we have the Japanese Christmas cake. This light and airy sponge cake is filled with whipped cream and fresh strawberries, making it a refreshing and delicious dessert to enjoy after a big Christmas dinner. The top of the cake is usually decorated with a cute Christmas design made out of whipped cream, making it a visually stunning dessert.
The Origins of Dark Christmas Cake
The Influence of Medieval Plum Porridge
While the exact origins of dark Christmas cake are unknown, it is believed to have evolved from a popular medieval dish known as plum porridge. This porridge was made by boiling dried fruit, spices, and oats in a pot, and was often served as a fasting meal on Christmas Eve. Over time, the recipe evolved to include more luxurious ingredients, such as sugar, eggs, and exotic spices, and eventually transformed into the dark Christmas cake we know and love today.
The Symbolism of the Ingredients
The ingredients used in dark Christmas cake hold a deeper meaning and symbolism, making it a truly special part of the holiday feast. The dried fruits, such as raisins, currants, and sultanas, represent the gifts brought by the three wise men to baby Jesus. The spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, symbolize the exotic spices brought by the wise men as well. The addition of brandy or rum not only adds flavor but also represents the gifts of the shepherds who visited the manger. And finally, the dense, dark cake itself symbolizes the stable where Jesus was born.
The Perfect Recipe for Dark Christmas Cake
Now that you know the history and symbolism behind dark Christmas cake, it's time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! This professional and well-organized recipe will guide you through every step and ensure that your dark Christmas cake turns out just right.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups raisins
- 1 ½ cups sultanas
- 1 ½ cups currants
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup chopped dates
- 1 ¼ cups brandy or rum
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup slivered almonds
- ½ cup chopped candied ginger
- ½ cup chopped candied orange peel
- ½ cup chopped candied lemon peel
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the raisins, sultanas, currants, cranberries, and dates. Pour over the brandy or rum and stir to coat. Cover and let soak overnight.
2. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake tin with parchment paper.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
4. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
6. Fold in the soaked fruits, almonds, ginger, and candied peels.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. Bake for 2 ½ - 3 hours, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool completely in the tin before removing and serving.
With its rich history and symbolic ingredients, dark Christmas cake is more than just a dessert - it's a beloved tradition in the UK. Now, armed with this professional and well-organized recipe, you can create your own dark Christmas cake and continue the tradition in your own home. Happy baking and Merry Christmas!
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