15 Italian Christmas Fruit Cake Recipe You Must Try Them!
Published on: May 3, 2024
Christmas is a time for indulging in delicious treats and one of the most beloved desserts during this festive season is Italian Christmas fruit cake. This traditional dessert has been a part of Italian holiday celebrations for centuries and is known for its rich, dense texture and flavorful combination of fruits, nuts, and spices. Whether you are a seasoned baker or just starting out, this Italian Christmas fruit cake recipe is sure to impress your family and friends at your next holiday gathering.
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Lukewarm Water, White Sugar, Eggs
Christmas in Italy is never complete without a slice of Panettone bread. This sweet, fluffy bread is studded with raisins, candied fruit, and almonds, making it the perfect indulgent treat for the holiday season. And the best part? It's surprisingly easy to make at home!
2of 40
Pandoro Christmas Tree Cake (Italian Christmas Cake)
Main Ingredients: Cake, Mascarpone, Vin Santo, Powdered Sugar
Looking for a show-stopping dessert to impress your guests this Christmas? Look no further than the Pandoro Christmas Tree Cake. This Italian Christmas cake is shaped like a Christmas tree and dusted with powdered sugar for a festive touch. It's also incredibly delicious, with a light and airy texture that will have everyone asking for seconds.
If you've always wanted to make your own Panettone bread but were intimidated by the process, this recipe is for you. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of patience, you can whip up a delicious homemade version of this classic Italian Christmas bread. Serve it warm with a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate holiday treat.
4of 40
Christmas Italian Spice Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Polenta, Blanched Almonds, Cocoa
Spice up your Christmas with this delicious Italian spice cake. Bursting with warm flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this cake is the perfect dessert for a cozy holiday gathering. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can even add a splash of rum or brandy for an extra kick.
5of 40
Kerala Christmas Fruit Cake | Xmas Fruit Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Salt, Ground Cloves
In the southern Indian state of Kerala, Christmas fruit cake is a staple during the holiday season. Made with a mix of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, this cake is full of flavor and will keep for weeks, making it the perfect gift for friends and family. So, if you're looking for a unique twist on the traditional Christmas fruit cake, give this Kerala version a try.
Christmas cookies are a beloved tradition in many households, and the Italians have their own unique versions. From colorful almond cookies to buttery shortbread cookies, there's no shortage of delicious options to choose from. And the best part? These cookies make for a wonderful homemade gift for your loved ones.
7of 40
Italian Christmas strudel
Main Ingredients: Dried Figs, Marsala, Raisins, Walnuts, Almonds, Lemon
If you're a fan of strudel, you'll love this Italian Christmas version. Filled with a mix of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, this strudel is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a late-night snack. And with its flaky pastry and sweet filling, it's sure to be a hit with everyone at your holiday gathering.
8of 40
Cucciddati | Italian Christmas Cookies
Main Ingredients: Figs, Raisins, Unsalted Butter, Powdered Sugar, Orange
Cucciddati, also known as Italian fig cookies, are a traditional Christmas treat in many Italian households. These cookies are made with a sweet fig filling and a buttery pastry dough, making them irresistible. They may take a bit of time to make, but they are well worth the effort.
9of 40
Traditional Italian Christmas Eve Doughnuts
Main Ingredients: Flour, Salt, Sugar, Dried Yeast, Water, Orange, Rum
In Italy, Christmas Eve is celebrated with a big feast, and no feast is complete without a sweet treat like these traditional Italian Christmas Eve doughnuts. These light and fluffy doughnuts are flavored with orange zest and vanilla and are perfect for dipping in your favorite hot beverage or drizzled with honey.
10of 40
Italian Ricotta Cookies (Italian Christmas Cookies)
Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Large Egg, Almond Extract, Baking Soda
If you love soft and chewy cookies, you have to try these Italian Ricotta Cookies. These cookies are made with ricotta cheese, giving them a light and fluffy texture, and are flavored with lemon and vanilla. They are also topped with a lemon glaze, making them the perfect balance of sweet and tart.
11of 40
Spiced Italian Christmas Fig Cookies
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Granulated Sugar, Baking Powder
Another variation of the classic Italian fig cookie, these spiced fig cookies are a must-try for any Christmas cookie lover. Made with a mix of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, these cookies have a deliciously festive flavor that will make your home smell like Christmas.
12of 40
Panettone (Italian Christmas Bread)
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Instant Yeast, Lukewarm Water, Large
Originating from Milan, Panettone is a traditional Italian Christmas bread that has gained popularity all over the world. This tall and fluffy bread is studded with dried fruits and nuts and has a light and airy texture. It's perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea on a cozy winter morning.
If you're looking for a simple yet impressive dessert for your holiday gathering, this Panettone Italian Christmas sweet bread is the perfect choice. This recipe uses store-bought Panettone, which is then soaked in a mixture of eggs, milk, and sugar before being baked to perfection. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
These Italian Ricotta Christmas Cookies are a delicious and unique addition to any Christmas cookie tray. Made with ricotta cheese, they have a delicate texture and are flavored with almond extract and lemon zest. They are also rolled in a mixture of powdered sugar and cinnamon, making them extra festive.
15of 40
Italian Christmas Salad / Insalata Di Natale
Main Ingredients: Fennel, Celery, Endive, Oranges, Olives, Capers
While most Christmas meals are centered around hearty and indulgent dishes, Italians like to balance out their feasts with a refreshing and light salad. This Italian Christmas salad, also known as Insalata Di Natale, is made with a mix of seasonal greens, oranges, pomegranate seeds, and a tangy vinaigrette. It's the perfect palate cleanser between bites of rich holiday dishes.
16of 40
Christmas Panettone – Traditional Italian Fruit Bread...
Main Ingredients: White Flour, Active Dry Yeast, Water, Sugar, Salt
If you're a fan of fruit bread, you have to try this traditional Christmas Panettone. This version is loaded with dried fruits, nuts, and chocolate chips, making it a delicious and indulgent treat for the holiday season. And with its festive packaging, it also makes for a lovely gift for your loved ones.
17of 40
Kerala Christmas Fruit Cake
Main Ingredients: Plain Flour, Cashew Nuts, Raisins, Fruits, White Sugar
Another variation of the classic Christmas fruit cake, this Kerala version is a popular choice in many Indian households during the holiday season. Made with a mix of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, this cake has a distinct Indian flavor and is a must-try for anyone looking to add some diversity to their Christmas menu.
18of 40
Boozy Christmas Cake (Paleo Fruit Cake)
Main Ingredients: Fruit, Dried Fruit, Rum, Pistachios, Lemon Zest, Orange
If you're following a Paleo diet or have dietary restrictions, you don't have to miss out on all the delicious Christmas treats. This boozy Christmas cake is made with almond flour, coconut sugar, and a mix of dried fruits and nuts, making it a healthier alternative to traditional fruit cakes. Plus, the addition of brandy or rum adds a festive touch.
19of 40
Traditional Christmas Plum Cake / Fruit Cake
Main Ingredients: Flour, Baking Powder, Salt, Brown Sugar, White Sugar
In many European countries, including Italy, a traditional Christmas fruit cake is also known as a plum cake. This cake is made with a mix of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, and is often baked in a bundt pan for a beautiful presentation. It's a classic Christmas dessert that will never go out of style.
If you're new to making Christmas fruit cakes and want to start with a simple and foolproof recipe, this basic Christmas fruit cake is the one for you. Made with pantry staples like flour, sugar, eggs, and dried fruits, this cake is easy to whip up and is perfect for those who prefer a less sweet and heavy dessert.
21of 40
Italian Panettone Bread (Christmas Fruit Cake)
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Lukewarm Water, White Sugar, Eggs
One of the most beloved Christmas traditions in Italy is the famous Panettone bread. This sweet and fluffy bread is filled with candied fruits, raisins, and sometimes even chocolate. It's a staple dessert during the holiday season and is often given as a gift to friends and family.
For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding some orange zest for a burst of citrus flavor or almonds for a little crunch. You can even drizzle some honey on top for a touch of sweetness. However you choose to make it, this Italian Christmas bread is sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings.
22of 40
Pandoro Christmas Tree Cake (Italian Christmas Cake)
Main Ingredients: Cake, Mascarpone, Vin Santo, Powdered Sugar
Another traditional Italian Christmas dessert is the Pandoro cake. This dome-shaped cake is often topped with powdered sugar to resemble a snow-covered tree. It's light and airy with a buttery flavor, perfect for enjoying after a big holiday meal.
To add a festive touch, top your Pandoro cake with some red and green sprinkles or candied cherries for a pop of color. You can also serve it with a side of chocolate hazelnut spread for a decadent dipping sauce.
If you're feeling ambitious and want to try making your own Panettone bread from scratch, we have an easy recipe for you to follow. All you need is some flour, yeast, sugar, butter, eggs, and your choice of dried fruits and nuts. The result is a beautiful and delicious homemade Italian Christmas bread that will impress your guests.
Don't be intimidated by the long rise time, as the end result is well worth the wait. Plus, your house will be filled with the warm and inviting aroma of freshly baked bread.
24of 40
Christmas Italian Spice Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Polenta, Blanched Almonds, Cocoa
This Italian spice cake is a staple in many households during the holiday season. It's a moist and flavorful cake filled with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. You can even add in some orange juice and zest for an extra burst of flavor.
Top it off with some whipped cream or vanilla gelato for a delicious and festive dessert. You can also serve it with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for the perfect ending to your holiday meal.
25of 40
Kerala Christmas Fruit Cake | Xmas Fruit Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Salt, Ground Cloves
In the southern Indian state of Kerala, Christmas is celebrated with a special fruit cake that is made with a unique blend of spices and fruits. This cake is packed with cashews, raisins, and dates and is flavored with cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon.
The result is a rich and flavorful cake that is perfect for the holiday season. Don't forget to soak your fruits in some rum or brandy for an extra kick of flavor.
No holiday celebration is complete without some delicious Christmas cookies. In Italy, there are many different types of cookies that are enjoyed during the holiday season. From almond biscotti to chocolate hazelnut cookies, there's something for everyone.
You can get creative and decorate your cookies with some colored frosting or sprinkles. Or keep it simple and enjoy them with a cup of hot tea or coffee. Either way, these Italian Christmas cookies are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
27of 40
Italian Christmas strudel
Main Ingredients: Dried Figs, Marsala, Raisins, Walnuts, Almonds, Lemon
This flaky and delicious Christmas strudel is a must-try for any holiday gathering. It's filled with a mixture of apples, cranberries, and walnuts and is flavored with cinnamon and orange zest. The end result is a warm and comforting dessert that is perfect for chilly winter nights.
Serve your strudel with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent treat. You can also top it with some caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.
28of 40
Cucciddati | Italian Christmas Cookies
Main Ingredients: Figs, Raisins, Unsalted Butter, Powdered Sugar, Orange
Cucciddati, also known as fig cookies, are a traditional Italian Christmas cookie that is often enjoyed during the holiday season. These cookies are filled with a delicious fig and nut mixture and are flavored with orange zest and vanilla extract.
They are usually shaped into little fig-shaped cookies and can be decorated with some powdered sugar or sprinkles. They are the perfect accompaniment to a hot cup of cappuccino or espresso.
29of 40
Traditional Italian Christmas Eve Doughnuts
Main Ingredients: Flour, Salt, Sugar, Dried Yeast, Water, Orange, Rum
In some regions of Italy, it is tradition to have a big feast on Christmas Eve, also known as the Feast of the Seven Fishes. And no feast would be complete without some delicious Italian doughnuts. These doughnuts, also known as zeppole, are fried to perfection and can be filled with jam, chocolate, or custard.
You can make them even more festive by dusting them with powdered sugar or cinnamon. They are best enjoyed warm and are a delicious addition to your holiday spread.
30of 40
Italian Ricotta Cookies (Italian Christmas Cookies)
Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Large Egg, Almond Extract, Baking Soda
These soft and fluffy Italian ricotta cookies are a must-try during the holiday season. They are made with a mixture of ricotta cheese, butter, and sugar and are flavored with lemon and almond extract. They are then topped with a delicious lemon glaze for a burst of tangy sweetness.
These cookies are perfect for gifting to friends and family or for enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa or tea. They are sure to become a new holiday favorite in your household.
31of 40
Spiced Italian Christmas Fig Cookies
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Granulated Sugar, Baking Powder
These spiced fig cookies are another traditional Italian Christmas cookie that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. They are filled with a mixture of figs, nuts, and spices and are flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
These cookies can be rolled into little logs or balls and can be topped with some powdered sugar or chopped nuts. They are a delicious and festive addition to any holiday cookie platter.
32of 40
Panettone (Italian Christmas Bread)
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Instant Yeast, Lukewarm Water, Large
Panettone is a traditional Italian Christmas bread that is enjoyed during the holiday season. It's a sweet and fluffy bread that is often filled with candied fruits and raisins. The dough is also enriched with butter and eggs, giving it a rich and decadent flavor.
You can serve your Panettone with some honey or chocolate spread for a touch of sweetness. You can also toast it and top it with some ricotta cheese and jam for a delicious breakfast treat.
For a twist on the classic Panettone bread, try making a version with some chocolate chips or hazelnuts. You can also add some lemon or orange zest for a refreshing citrus flavor.
This sweet bread is perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee on a chilly winter day. It's also a great option for gifting to loved ones during the holiday season.
These Italian ricotta cookies are a delicious and festive treat to enjoy during the holiday season. They are filled with a mixture of ricotta cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract and are flavored with orange zest and almond extract.
These cookies are soft and pillowy, with a delicate almond flavor. You can top them with some chocolate chips or chopped nuts for an extra crunch. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family during the holidays.
35of 40
Italian Christmas Salad / Insalata Di Natale
Main Ingredients: Fennel, Celery, Endive, Oranges, Olives, Capers
For a lighter option to balance out all the indulgent holiday dishes, try making an Italian Christmas salad. This salad is filled with greens, tomatoes, olives, and cheese and is dressed with a lemon and olive oil dressing.
You can also add some roasted nuts or dried fruits to give it a festive touch. This salad is a refreshing and delicious addition to any holiday meal.
36of 40
Christmas Panettone – Traditional Italian Fruit Bread...
Main Ingredients: White Flour, Active Dry Yeast, Water, Sugar, Salt
This traditional Italian Christmas fruit bread is a must-have for any holiday celebration. It's packed with candied fruits, raisins, and nuts and is often topped with a sweet glaze. It's a beautiful and delicious centerpiece for any holiday table.
You can get creative and add your own twist to this classic recipe. Try adding some chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a different flavor profile. Or drizzle some chocolate or caramel sauce on top for an extra indulgent touch.
37of 40
Kerala Christmas Fruit Cake
Main Ingredients: Plain Flour, Cashew Nuts, Raisins, Fruits, White Sugar
This traditional Christmas fruit cake from Kerala is a delicious and unique take on the classic fruit cake. It's made with a mixture of spices, dried fruits, and nuts and is flavored with rum and vanilla.
This cake is usually baked in a special round pan with a hole in the center, giving it a distinctive shape. Serve it with some whipped cream or custard for a delicious holiday dessert.
38of 40
Boozy Christmas Cake (Paleo Fruit Cake)
Main Ingredients: Fruit, Dried Fruit, Rum, Pistachios, Lemon Zest, Orange
For those looking for a healthier and alcohol-free option, this boozy Christmas cake is the perfect choice. It's made with almond flour, dried fruits, and nuts and is sweetened with honey or maple syrup.
The cake is packed with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves and is flavored with orange juice and zest. It's a guilt-free and delicious option for those following a Paleo diet.
39of 40
Traditional Christmas Plum Cake / Fruit Cake
Main Ingredients: Flour, Baking Powder, Salt, Brown Sugar, White Sugar
This traditional Christmas plum cake, also known as fruit cake, is a staple in many households during the holiday season. It's made with a mixture of spices, dried fruits, and nuts and is often soaked in brandy or rum.
This cake is rich and flavorful, with a dense texture. It's perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee on a cold winter night.
For those looking for a simple and no-fuss Christmas fruit cake recipe, we have got you covered. This basic fruit cake is made with flour, sugar, eggs, and dried fruits and is flavored with vanilla extract and warm spices.
This cake is moist and delicious, with a beautiful golden crust. You can add your own twist by using different types of dried fruits and nuts or by adding some cocoa powder or chocolate chips for a chocolatey flavor.
Ingredients for Italian Christmas Fruit Cake
1. Fruits and Nuts
The key to making a delicious Italian Christmas fruit cake is using the right combination of fruits and nuts. Raisins, currants, candied orange peel, and candied lemon peel are essential in this recipe. You can also add candied cherries, citron, and apricots for a burst of color and flavor. Almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts are the popular nuts used in this cake, but you can also use pecans or pistachios according to your preference.
2. Spices
The warm and comforting flavors of traditional Italian spices are what make this fruit cake stand out. Cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves bring a depth of flavor and aroma to the cake. You can also add a pinch of cardamom or ginger to give it a twist.
3. Liquids
To keep the cake moist and give it a rich flavor, you will need brandy or rum. You can also use red wine or orange juice as a substitute. These liquids also help in preserving the cake for a longer time.
4. Flour and Butter
For the base of the cake, use all-purpose flour and butter. The butter should be at room temperature for easy mixing and to ensure a fluffy texture.
Instructions
1. Soak the Fruits and Nuts
To achieve a moist and flavorful cake, it is essential to soak the fruits and nuts in the liquor of your choice for at least 24 hours. This helps in infusing the fruits and nuts with the flavors of the liquor.
2. Prepare the Batter
In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. In a separate bowl, mix the dry ingredients - flour, spices, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the soaked fruits and nuts. Mix until well combined.
3. Bake the Cake
Grease a cake pan and pour in the batter. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Let it Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan. Once cooled, you can serve it as is or top it with a glaze or icing of your choice.
In conclusion, this Italian Christmas fruit cake recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of Italian tradition to their holiday celebrations. The combination of fruits, nuts, and spices, along with the addition of liquor, makes this cake a decadent and indulgent treat. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your loved ones with this mouth-watering dessert.
![Panettone [Italian Christmas Bread] | Brown Eyed Baker | Bloglovin’](http://www.browneyedbaker.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/panettone-33-600.jpg)
/GettyImages-589893687-5824a8d15f9b58d5b174d139.jpg)
