19+ Jamaican Christmas Cake Recipe Ignite Your Passion For Cooking!
Published on: Mar 4, 2024
For many Jamaicans, Christmas is the most anticipated time of the year. It's a time to gather with loved ones, exchange gifts, and indulge in delicious, traditional foods. One staple of a Jamaican Christmas celebration is the Christmas cake. This rich and flavorful cake is a beloved part of the holiday season and is often passed down through generations. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history and ingredients of a Jamaican Christmas cake, as well as provide a step-by-step recipe for you to try at home.
Christmas is a time for celebration and indulgence, and what better way to do both than with a delicious Christmas cake? Whether you prefer a classic fruit cake, a modern twist on the traditional recipe, or a completely new flavor combination, there's a Christmas cake recipe out there for everyone. Here are 20 mouth-watering options to choose from for your holiday dessert table.
Jamaican Christmas cake, also known as black cake or fruit cake, is a beloved holiday treat in the Caribbean. This rich and boozy cake is made with rum-soaked fruits and spices, giving it a unique and irresistible flavor. Try out this recipe for the best Jamaican Christmas cake and impress your friends and family with a taste of the islands.
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Jamaican Christmas Cake (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
Main Ingredients: Fruits, Grape Juice, Molasses, Butter, Almond Extract
If you have dietary restrictions but still want to enjoy the flavors of Jamaican Christmas cake, this vegan and gluten-free version is perfect for you. Made with almond flour, coconut oil, and flax eggs, this cake is just as delicious as the traditional version. Don't miss out on this festive dessert because of dietary restrictions.
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Cranberry Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Sugar, Butter, Vanilla, Flour, Fresh Cranberries
For a festive and fruity twist on the classic Christmas cake, try this cranberry version. Loaded with fresh cranberries and topped with a sweet glaze, this cake is sure to be a hit with everyone at your holiday gathering. Plus, the vibrant red color makes it a beautiful addition to any dessert table.
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, White Sugar, Brown Sugar, All Purpose
The Yule log, or Buche de Noel, is a classic French Christmas dessert that is traditionally made to resemble a log. This recipe takes the traditional concept to the next level with layers of chocolate cake, chocolate ganache, and chocolate mousse. The result is a decadent and impressive Christmas log cake that will be the star of your holiday 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 make a delicious Christmas cake, this simple recipe is perfect for you. Made with just a few basic ingredients, this cake is quick and easy to make, but still packs a punch in terms of flavor. It's also a great option for those who are new to baking or looking for a beginner-friendly recipe.
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Moist Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Fruit, Vanilla Extract, Malt Syrup, Sherry, Glucose
One of the biggest challenges with Christmas cakes is keeping them moist, but this recipe has that covered. With the addition of applesauce and buttermilk, this cake stays incredibly moist and tender. Plus, the combination of warm spices and sweet dried fruits makes it a perfectly festive dessert for the holiday season.
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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 and show-stopping Christmas cake, look no further than this Pandoro Christmas tree cake. This Italian dessert is made with a sweet, buttery bread called Pandoro, which is shaped into a Christmas tree and decorated with chocolate and powdered sugar. It may take a bit of time and effort, but the end result is absolutely stunning.
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Fruit Cake - Plum Cake - Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt
Whatever you call it, fruit cake is a quintessential Christmas treat that has been enjoyed for centuries. This recipe uses a combination of dried fruits and nuts, along with warm spices and brandy, to create a rich and flavorful cake that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Serve it with a cup of tea or coffee for the perfect holiday snack.
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Cranberry & Lime Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Sugar, Butter, Vanilla, Lime, Flour, Fresh
Inspired by the classic combination of cranberry and lime, this Christmas cake is a refreshing and zesty take on the traditional recipe. The tangy lime complements the tart cranberries perfectly, while the warm spices and rum add a festive touch. This cake is sure to be a hit with those who prefer a lighter and less sweet dessert option.
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Pistachio Cherry Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: White Or Yellow Cake Mix, Water, Pudding Mix
If you're a fan of pistachio and cherry flavor combinations, this Christmas cake is a must-try. The nutty and slightly salty pistachios pair perfectly with the sweet and tart cherries, creating a deliciously balanced cake that is perfect for the holiday season. Plus, the vibrant red and green colors make it a beautiful addition to any Christmas dessert spread.
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Fruit Cake | Christmas Cake | Plum Cake
Main Ingredients: Oil, Eggs, Spice, Baking Powder, Vanilla Essence, Lemon
Another classic fruit cake recipe, this version is made with a combination of dried fruits, candied citrus peel, and warm spices. The addition of dark rum and brandy adds a rich and boozy flavor to the cake, making it a perfect treat for adults. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
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Cranberry Almond Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Unsalted Butter, Almond
This cranberry almond cake is a delicious and festive option for those with nut allergies. Made with almond extract for a hint of flavor, this cake is studded with tart cranberries and topped with a sweet glaze. It's a simple and delicious option for those who want a little something different from the traditional fruit cake.
If you're a fan of Jamaican Christmas cake, here's another recipe to add to your collection. This version uses a combination of dried fruits and nuts, along with a generous amount of rum and brandy, to create a rich and flavorful cake that is sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering. Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of dried fruits and nuts to create your own unique version.
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Classic Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Raisins, Sultanas, Dried Apricots, Dried Figs, Wine
For those who prefer to stick with the classics, this recipe for a traditional Christmas fruit cake is a must-try. Made with a combination of dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices, this cake is moist, rich, and full of flavor. It's a timeless option that will never go out of style.
No Christmas dessert spread is complete without a batch of sugar cookies. This recipe uses a simple and delicious sugar cookie base, with the addition of festive holiday sprinkles for a pop of color. Get creative and use different cookie cutters to make a variety of holiday-themed shapes.
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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 option for your Christmas table, these peppermint meringue swirls are a perfect choice. Made with just a few ingredients, these cookies are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside, with a refreshing hint of peppermint. Plus, the festive red and white swirls make them a beautiful addition to any dessert spread.
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Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Pizza Bread
Main Ingredients: Finely Grated Parmesan Reggiano Cheese, Pizza Dough
For a savory option on your dessert table, try this Christmas tree pull-apart pizza bread. Made with pizza dough, cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings, this bread is shaped into a festive Christmas tree and can be pulled apart for a fun and delicious snack. It's a great option for those who prefer a more savory treat.
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Healthy Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Mixed Dried Fruit, Ground Cinnamon, Extract, Nutmeg
For those who want to indulge in a Christmas dessert without the guilt, this healthy Christmas cake is the answer. Made with whole wheat flour, applesauce, and a small amount of sugar, this cake is a healthier option that still delivers on taste. Plus, the addition of dried fruits and nuts makes it a nutritious and delicious choice for the holiday season.
In Japan, Christmas cake is a popular dessert that is traditionally made with light and fluffy sponge cake, whipped cream, and strawberries. This recipe takes that concept and adds a festive twist with the addition of cranberries and pistachios. The result is a beautiful and delicious Christmas cake that will be a hit with everyone at your holiday gathering.
The History of Jamaican Christmas Cake
Roots in British Influence
The tradition of making Christmas cake in Jamaica can be traced back to the country's colonial past under British rule. British settlers brought with them the tradition of Christmas pudding, a dense and moist fruit cake usually served during the holiday season. Over time, as the recipe made its way to the Caribbean, it evolved to incorporate local ingredients and flavors, creating what is now known as Jamaican Christmas cake.
Symbols of Prosperity and Good Luck
In Jamaican culture, Christmas cake is not only a delicious treat but also a symbol of prosperity and good luck. The rich and decadent cake is often reserved for special occasions, making it a highly anticipated treat during the holiday season. It is also believed that the fruits and spices used in the cake represent the diverse and bountiful harvest of the island, bringing good fortune to those who consume it.
The Ingredients of Jamaican Christmas Cake
Fruits and Spices: The key to a flavorful Jamaican Christmas cake is the use of a variety of fruits and spices. These may include raisins, currants, prunes, cherries, and mixed peel, as well as cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
Rum: No Jamaican Christmas cake would be complete without a generous splash of rum. This not only adds a rich depth of flavor but also helps to preserve the cake, making it last for weeks.
Browning: Another essential ingredient in Jamaican Christmas cake is browning, a dark caramelized sauce that gives the cake its signature dark color.
Flour and Eggs: To bind all the ingredients together, flour and eggs are used in the cake batter, creating a dense and moist texture.
The Recipe for Jamaican Christmas Cake
Now that we know the history and ingredients of Jamaican Christmas cake, let's dive into the recipe. Keep in mind that this is a traditional recipe, and you can always add your own twist to make it your own.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb mixed fruit (raisins, currants, prunes, cherries, mixed peel)
- 1 cup rum
- 1 cup browning
- 1 cup flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp ground allspice
- 1 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 4 eggs
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, soak the mixed fruit in rum and browning for at least 24 hours.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and spices.
4. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Gradually add in the flour mixture, mixing until well combined.
6. Fold in the soaked fruit, making sure to evenly distribute it in the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool before removing it from the pan and serving.
In Conclusion
Jamaican Christmas cake is a delicious and meaningful part of the holiday season in Jamaica. With its rich history and flavorful ingredients, it is a must-try for anyone looking to experience a taste of Caribbean Christmas traditions. So why not give this recipe a try and add a touch of Jamaican flavor to your holiday celebrations?
