Christmas in Newfoundland is a special time filled with cherished traditions and delicious food. The centerpiece of any holiday feast in this Canadian province is the iconic Newfoundland Christmas cake. This rich and decadent dessert is a staple in every household and is a must-have for any festive gathering. In this article, we will dive into the history and ingredients of this beloved Christmas cake and provide you with a step-by-step recipe to make it yourself. Get ready to indulge in a slice of Newfoundland's holiday charm with this mouth-watering cake.
If you're looking for the perfect Christmas dessert, look no further than these delicious and creative Christmas cake recipes. These cakes are sure to impress your friends and family and become a staple in your holiday celebrations. From traditional fruit cakes to unique flavor combinations, there's something for everyone on this list.
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Cranberry Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Sugar, Butter, Vanilla, Flour, Fresh Cranberries
This festive cake is bursting with fresh cranberries and a hint of orange, making it the perfect holiday treat. The tartness of the cranberries pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cake, creating a delicious balance of flavors. Top it off with a simple glaze and enjoy this delightful dessert with a cup of hot cocoa by the fire.
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Newfoundland Style Cherry Cake – a traditional...
Main Ingredients: Glace Cherries, Flour, Butter, Sugar, Eggs, Vanilla
This traditional Newfoundland cake is packed with juicy cherries and a touch of brandy for a rich and indulgent flavor. The recipe has been passed down for generations and is a beloved Christmas tradition in many households. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream and savor this classic holiday dessert.
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, White Sugar, Brown Sugar, All Purpose
The Yule log cake, also known as Buche de Noel, is a classic French dessert that is often served during Christmas. This decadent cake is made with chocolate sponge cake, filled with a creamy chocolate ganache, and decorated with adorable meringue mushrooms. It's a show-stopping dessert that will impress your guests and be the talk of the party.
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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 recipe is for you. It's a no-fuss, easy-to-follow recipe that uses basic ingredients and can be whipped up quickly. The result is a moist and flavorful cake that is perfect for any holiday gathering.
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Moist Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Fruit, Vanilla Extract, Malt Syrup, Sherry, Glucose
One of the biggest challenges when it comes to making a Christmas cake is keeping it moist. This recipe solves that problem by using a combination of applesauce and oil to ensure a moist and flavorful cake. Top it with your favorite icing and indulge in this delicious holiday treat.
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Newfoundland Christmas Slush
Main Ingredients: Simple Syrup, Golden Pineapple, Amber Rum, Lemon Juice
This non-alcoholic drink is a favorite in Newfoundland during the holiday season. It's made with a combination of juices, ice, and spices for a refreshing and festive beverage. Serve it at your Christmas party and impress your guests with this unique and delicious drink.
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Pandoro Christmas Tree Cake (Italian Christmas Cake)
Main Ingredients: Cake, Mascarpone, Vin Santo, Powdered Sugar
This Italian Christmas cake is not only delicious but also a beautiful centerpiece for your holiday table. The pandoro cake is shaped like a Christmas tree and adorned with colorful candy and sprinkles. It's a fun and festive cake that will add a touch of Italian flair to your holiday celebrations.
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Fruit Cake - Plum Cake - Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt
For a classic and traditional Christmas cake, look no further than this fruit and plum cake recipe. It's packed with dried fruit, nuts, and a hint of brandy for a rich and decadent flavor. Bake it ahead of time and let it mature for a few weeks for the best results.
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Cranberry & Lime Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Sugar, Butter, Vanilla, Lime, Flour, Fresh
If you're tired of the traditional fruit cake, this cranberry and lime cake is a refreshing and delicious alternative. The tartness of the cranberries pairs perfectly with the zesty lime, creating a zingy and delightful dessert. Top it with a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
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Pistachio Cherry Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: White Or Yellow Cake Mix, Water, Pudding Mix
This pistachio and cherry cake is a unique twist on the traditional Christmas fruit cake. The combination of flavors creates a delightful and nutty cake that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Serve it with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy holiday treat.
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Fruit Cake | Christmas Cake | Plum Cake
Main Ingredients: Oil, Eggs, Spice, Baking Powder, Vanilla Essence, Lemon
This recipe for fruit cake, also known as Christmas cake or plum cake, is a tried and true classic. It's packed with dried fruits, nuts, and spices for a rich and decadent flavor. Make it ahead of time and let it mature for a few weeks for the best results.
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Cranberry Almond Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Unsalted Butter, Almond
The combination of tart cranberries and crunchy almonds makes this Christmas cake a delightful and textural treat. The cake is topped with a sweet and tangy glaze for the perfect balance of flavors. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
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Plum Cake, Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Brown Sugar, Melted Butter, Maida, Baking Powder
This plum cake recipe is a delicious and moist alternative to the traditional fruit cake. It's made with fresh plums and a touch of brandy for a rich and indulgent flavor. Top it with a dollop of whipped cream and savor this festive dessert.
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Classic Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Raisins, Sultanas, Dried Apricots, Dried Figs, Wine
For a classic and traditional Christmas cake, this recipe is a must-try. It's a decadent and moist fruit cake that is packed with dried fruits and nuts. Make it ahead of time and let it mature for a few weeks for the best results. Serve it with a glass of mulled wine for the ultimate holiday treat.
No Christmas is complete without a batch of festive sugar cookies. This recipe uses a classic sugar cookie base and is decorated with colorful icing and sprinkles to add a festive touch. These cookies are perfect for a cookie exchange or a sweet treat to leave out for Santa.
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Christmas Peppermint Meringue Swirls
Main Ingredients: Egg Whites, Cream Of Tartar, Sugar, Peppermint Extract
These adorable and delicious meringue swirls are a fun and festive addition to your holiday dessert table. They are flavored with peppermint extract and topped with crushed candy canes for a sweet and crunchy treat. Serve them alongside your favorite Christmas cookies for a fun and colorful display.
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Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Pizza Bread
Main Ingredients: Finely Grated Parmesan Reggiano Cheese, Pizza Dough
This savory Christmas tree bread is a fun and creative twist on traditional holiday desserts. It's made with pizza dough, cheese, and your favorite toppings, making it perfect for a holiday party or a cozy night in. Pull apart a slice and enjoy this delicious and festive treat.
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Healthy Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Mixed Dried Fruit, Ground Cinnamon, Extract, Nutmeg
If you're looking for a healthier option for your Christmas cake, this recipe is for you. It uses whole wheat flour and applesauce to make a moist and delicious cake that is lower in calories and fat. It's a guilt-free indulgence that you can enjoy without feeling guilty.
This Japanese Christmas cake, also known as a strawberry shortcake, is a popular holiday dessert in Japan. It's made with light and airy sponge cake, whipped cream, and sweet and juicy strawberries. The result is a delicate and decadent cake that is sure to impress.
The History of Newfoundland Christmas Cake
The origins of Newfoundland Christmas cake can be traced back to the early settlers who brought their traditions and recipes from England and Ireland. Over the years, the cake has evolved to include ingredients that are locally available in Newfoundland such as berries, rum, and molasses. It has become a symbol of the province's rich culture and heritage, and is a reminder of the resilience and resourcefulness of its people.
Main Ingredients
The main ingredients of Newfoundland Christmas cake include flour, butter, sugar, eggs, raisins, and candied fruit. These are mixed together to create a dense and moist cake that is bursting with flavor. The use of molasses, which is a staple in Newfoundland cooking, gives the cake its dark color and distinctive taste. The addition of rum adds a subtle kick and enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
The Significance of the Cake
In Newfoundland, Christmas is a time for family and friends to come together and celebrate. The Christmas cake plays a crucial role in this celebration as it is often served as a dessert after the main feast. It is also a popular gift to give to loved ones during the holiday season. The act of making the cake itself is a cherished tradition, with many families passing down their recipes from generation to generation.
Make Your Own Newfoundland Christmas Cake
Now that you know the history and ingredients of Newfoundland Christmas cake, it's time to roll up your sleeves and make your own. Follow this simple recipe to create a delicious and authentic cake that will transport you to the heart of Newfoundland.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup butter
- 1 ½ cups brown sugar
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup raisins
- 1 cup candied fruit
- ½ cup molasses
- ¼ cup rum
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp allspice
- 1 tsp nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and spices.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing until well combined.
6. Fold in the raisins and candied fruit.
7. Finally, stir in the molasses and rum.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
9. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before removing it from the pan.
11. Serve and enjoy your homemade Newfoundland Christmas cake!
In Conclusion
The Newfoundland Christmas cake is more than just a dessert, it is a symbol of the province's culture and traditions. Whether you are a native Newfoundlander or just looking to add a new dish to your holiday spread, this cake is sure to be a hit. So, gather your loved ones and indulge in a slice of this delicious and meaningful dessert.
