Fiona Cairns is renowned for her delectable Christmas cake recipe that has become a staple in many households during the holiday season. With over 30 years of experience as a professional baker and author of several cookbooks, Cairns has perfected the art of creating a rich and moist fruit cake that is packed with festive flavors. In this article, we will delve deeper into Cairns' famous Christmas cake recipe and discover the secrets behind its irresistible taste.
When it comes to baking a Christmas cake, Fiona Cairns believes that using high-quality ingredients is crucial. She emphasizes the importance of using fresh and organic ingredients to achieve the best results. Cairns' recipe calls for a combination of dried fruits such as raisins, sultanas, currants, and candied orange and lemon peel. These fruits are soaked in brandy and orange juice overnight to infuse them with a rich and boozy flavor.
The Secret Ingredient
One of the key ingredients that sets Cairns' Christmas cake apart from others is the addition of ground almonds. This gives the cake a moist and light texture, making it stand out from the usual dense and heavy fruit cakes. Along with the almonds, Cairns also adds a generous amount of mixed spice and ground cinnamon to give the cake a warm and spicy flavor.
Baking Tips from the Expert
According to Cairns, the key to a perfectly baked Christmas cake lies in the baking process. She recommends lining the cake tin with double layers of baking parchment to prevent the cake from burning. She also suggests placing a bowl of water in the oven while the cake is baking to keep the moisture level high. This will prevent the cake from drying out and ensure it stays moist and tender.
Decorating the Christmas Cake
Once the cake is baked and cooled, it's time to add the final festive touch. Cairns' recipe includes a simple yet elegant decoration of marzipan and fondant icing. She advises to brush the cake with apricot jam before adding the marzipan to help it stick to the cake. For a more decorative look, you can use cutters to create Christmas-themed shapes with the fondant icing.
In conclusion, with Fiona Cairns' Christmas cake recipe, you can create a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday table that is not only visually appealing but also delicious. So why not give it a try this festive season and impress your friends and family with your baking skills? Don't forget to share your creation with us and spread the joy and love of Christmas through this delectable treat.
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