17+ Ultimate Christmas Cake Recipe Good Housekeeping Get Ready To Indulge!
Published on: Mar 6, 2024
The holiday season is upon us, and that means it's time to start planning for one of the most beloved traditions - baking a Christmas cake. This festive dessert is a staple at every holiday gathering, and it's the perfect way to spread some holiday cheer. But, with so many recipes to choose from, finding the ultimate Christmas cake recipe can be a daunting task. Look no further, as we've gathered the best tips and tricks for creating the perfect Christmas cake that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
Christmas is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a delicious homemade Christmas cake? This classic dessert is a staple during the holiday season, and there are countless variations to choose from. Whether you prefer a traditional fruit cake or something a little more unique, we've got you covered with our top 20 Christmas cake recipes. So grab your apron and get ready to bake up a storm!
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Cranberry Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Sugar, Butter, Vanilla, Flour, Fresh Cranberries
If you're looking for a festive and fruity twist on the classic Christmas cake, look no further than this cranberry Christmas cake. Made with fresh cranberries, orange zest, and a hint of almond extract, this cake is bursting with holiday flavors. Plus, the vibrant red color makes for a stunning presentation on your dessert table.
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, White Sugar, Brown Sugar, All Purpose
Also known as the Christmas log cake or bûche de Noël, this traditional French dessert is a must-try during the holiday season. Made with a light and fluffy sponge cake, filled with chocolate buttercream, and rolled into a log shape, this cake is sure to impress your guests. Top it off with some powdered sugar and a few sprigs of holly for the perfect Christmas touch.
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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 whip up a delicious Christmas cake, this simple recipe is for you. Made with just a handful of ingredients, this cake is easy to make but still packs a flavorful punch. Plus, it's perfect for those who aren't a fan of the traditional fruit cake, as this recipe uses apricots and pecans instead.
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Moist Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Fruit, Vanilla Extract, Malt Syrup, Sherry, Glucose
No one likes a dry cake, especially during the holidays. That's why this moist Christmas cake recipe is a game-changer. Made with juicy raisins and a splash of brandy, this cake is incredibly moist and full of flavor. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or custard for the ultimate indulgent dessert.
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Pandoro Christmas Tree Cake (Italian Christmas Cake)
Main Ingredients: Cake, Mascarpone, Vin Santo, Powdered Sugar
If you're looking to impress your guests with a show-stopping Christmas dessert, this Pandoro Christmas tree cake is just the ticket. Made with layers of fluffy Pandoro cake and filled with a decadent chocolate cream, this cake is shaped like a Christmas tree and dusted with powdered sugar to resemble snow. It's sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering.
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Fruit Cake - Plum Cake - Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt
There's no denying that fruit cake is a classic Christmas dessert. But this fruit cake recipe takes things up a notch with the addition of plums. The combination of dried fruits and fresh plums makes for a cake that is both sweet and tangy, perfect for satisfying all of your holiday cravings.
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Cranberry & Lime Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Sugar, Butter, Vanilla, Lime, Flour, Fresh
For a refreshing and zesty twist on the classic Christmas cake, try this cranberry and lime recipe. The tartness of the cranberries and lime is balanced out by the sweetness of the cake, making for a flavor combination that is out of this world. Plus, the vibrant red and green colors make it a festive addition to any holiday spread.
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Pistachio Cherry Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: White Or Yellow Cake Mix, Water, Pudding Mix
If you're a fan of pistachios, you'll love this pistachio cherry Christmas cake. Made with chopped pistachios, dried cherries, and a hint of almond extract, this cake is a delicious and unique take on the traditional fruit cake. It's also perfect for those who want a break from all the heavy and rich desserts that come with the holiday season.
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Fruit Cake | Christmas Cake | Plum Cake
Main Ingredients: Oil, Eggs, Spice, Baking Powder, Vanilla Essence, Lemon
Why choose between a fruit cake, Christmas cake, or plum cake when you can have all three in one? This recipe combines all the classic holiday flavors into one delicious and moist cake. Packed with dried fruits, nuts, and a splash of brandy, this cake is sure to become a new favorite in your household.
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Cranberry Almond Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Unsalted Butter, Almond
If you're a fan of the cranberry and almond flavor combination, you're in for a treat with this Christmas cake recipe. The tartness of the cranberries is complemented perfectly by the nutty and slightly sweet almond flavor. Plus, the almond slices on top add a nice crunch to the soft and moist cake.
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Plum Cake, Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Brown Sugar, Melted Butter, Maida, Baking Powder
This plum cake may look simple, but it's bursting with flavor. Made with plums, almonds, and a hint of cinnamon, this cake is a perfect balance of sweet and tart. It's also a great alternative to the traditional fruit cake for those who want something a little different this holiday season.
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Easy Christmas cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Firmly Packed Brown Sugar, Eggs, Orange
Don't let the holiday stress get to you – this easy Christmas cake recipe is here to save the day. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this cake is perfect for those who want a stress-free holiday dessert. But don't let the simplicity fool you – it's still bursting with delicious flavors.
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Classic Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Raisins, Sultanas, Dried Apricots, Dried Figs, Wine
Sometimes, you just can't beat a classic. This traditional Christmas cake recipe is a tried and true favorite, filled with all the classic holiday flavors like dried fruits, nuts, and spices. It's also perfect for those who want to make a cake that will last throughout the holiday season – just wrap it up well and enjoy a slice whenever you please.
No holiday dessert spread is complete without some festive sugar cookies. This recipe takes things up a notch with a hint of almond extract and a sprinkle of colorful sugar on top. Plus, they're perfect for getting the whole family involved in the baking process – have fun decorating them with different designs and colors.
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Christmas Peppermint Meringue Swirls
Main Ingredients: Egg Whites, Cream Of Tartar, Sugar, Peppermint Extract
Looking for a light and airy dessert to balance out all the rich and heavy holiday dishes? These Christmas peppermint meringue swirls are just the ticket. Made with egg whites, sugar, and a hint of peppermint extract, these melt-in-your-mouth treats are a perfect addition to any holiday dessert table.
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Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Pizza Bread
Main Ingredients: Finely Grated Parmesan Reggiano Cheese, Pizza Dough
Who says Christmas desserts have to be sweet? This Christmas tree pull-apart pizza bread is a fun and savory option for those who want something different this holiday season. Made with pizza dough, marinara sauce, and your favorite toppings, this festive dish is perfect for sharing with friends and family.
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Healthy Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Mixed Dried Fruit, Ground Cinnamon, Extract, Nutmeg
If you're trying to stick to a healthy diet during the holidays, you don't have to miss out on all the delicious desserts. This healthy Christmas cake is made with whole wheat flour, coconut oil, and natural sweeteners, making it a guilt-free treat. Plus, it's still packed with all the traditional holiday flavors.
In Japan, Christmas cakes are a popular tradition, and this Japanese Christmas cake is a must-try. Made with a light and airy sponge cake and filled with whipped cream and fresh strawberries, this dessert is light and refreshing – perfect for those who want a break from all the heavy holiday dishes.
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Cucidati Italian Christmas Fig Cookies
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar, Vanilla Extract
No Christmas dessert spread is complete without a batch of cookies, and these Italian Christmas fig cookies are sure to be a hit. Made with a buttery dough and filled with a delicious fig and nut filling, these cookies are a beloved Italian holiday tradition. Plus, they're perfect for gifting to friends and family.
Making the Perfect Christmas Cake
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When it comes to baking a Christmas cake, using the right ingredients is key. The base of any good fruit cake is dried fruits, and raisins, currants, and candied peel are a must-have. Almonds and pecans add a delicious crunch, while spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice give the cake a warm and festive flavor. Don't forget to include brandy or rum for that extra kick.
Soaking the Fruits
To ensure a moist and flavorful cake, it's essential to soak the dried fruits in alcohol for at least 24 hours before baking. This will plump up the fruits and infuse them with the flavors of the alcohol. For an added twist, try soaking the fruits in orange juice or apple cider for a non-alcoholic version.
Baking the Cake
When it comes to baking the cake, patience is key. This is not a dessert that can be rushed, as it needs to be baked slowly at a low temperature. Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit and bake the cake for about 3-4 hours. This slow and steady baking process will ensure that the cake is evenly cooked and not burnt on the outside.
Decorating the Cake
Once the cake is baked and cooled, it's time to get creative with the decorations. You can brush the top of the cake with apricot jam and then decorate it with marzipan and icing for a classic and elegant look. Or, if you want a more rustic and natural look, try topping the cake with dried fruits and nuts. The possibilities are endless, so have fun and let your creativity shine.
In Conclusion
With these tips and tricks, you'll have the ultimate Christmas cake recipe that is sure to impress your guests. Remember to use high-quality ingredients, be patient with the baking process, and have fun with the decorations. Your holiday season will be even more special with a delicious and festive Christmas cake on the table. Happy baking!
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