16+ War Time Christmas Cake Recipe Prepare To Be Amazed!
Published on: Apr 7, 2024
The holiday season is often associated with joy, laughter, and delicious food. However, during times of war, these traditions are often put on hold as families and communities struggle to survive. The war time Christmas cake recipe is a testament to the resilience and creativity of those who faced the challenges of wartime. This simple yet hearty recipe not only brings comfort to those in difficult times, but also serves as a reminder of the enduring human spirit. In this article, we will explore the history and ingredients of this unique cake, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to recreate it.
Christmas is the time for indulging in delicious treats, and what better way to celebrate than with a rich and moist Christmas cake? This classic dessert never fails to impress and is a staple in many households during the holiday season. From traditional fruit cakes to more modern variations, there's a Christmas cake recipe for everyone. So, get your apron on and let's dive into the top 20 beer can chicken recipes for a mouth-watering Christmas cake.
2of 20
Cranberry Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Sugar, Butter, Vanilla, Flour, Fresh Cranberries
This festive cake is bursting with tangy cranberries and warm spices, making it the perfect addition to your Christmas spread. The combination of sweet and tart flavors creates a delicious balance that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Plus, the vibrant red color adds a touch of holiday cheer to any table.
Main Ingredients: Large Eggs, White Sugar, Brown Sugar, All Purpose
The Yule log, also known as the Christmas log cake, is a classic holiday dessert that originated in France. This indulgent treat is made with a light and airy sponge cake that is rolled with a rich chocolate filling. The cake is then decorated to resemble a log, making it the perfect centerpiece for any Christmas gathering.
4of 20
Grandma’s War Time Peanut Drop Cookies
Main Ingredients: Butter, Honey, Egg, All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder
For a taste of nostalgia, try these peanut drop cookies that were popular during World War II. Made with simple ingredients, these cookies are a perfect balance of sweet and salty. Grandma's recipe has stood the test of time and is sure to become a new favorite in your household.
5of 20
Grandma’s War Time Orange Drop Cookies
Main Ingredients: Orange Rind, Flavoring, Orange, Butter, Honey, Egg, All
Another recipe from Grandma's cookbook, these orange drop cookies are a refreshing twist on a classic cookie. The addition of orange zest gives these cookies a burst of citrus flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of hot cocoa on a cold Christmas evening.
6of 20
Simple Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Granulated Sugar, All Purpose Flour
If you're short on time but still want to impress your guests with a homemade Christmas cake, then this recipe is for you. This simple cake is made with basic ingredients and can be whipped up in no time. Don't let the simplicity fool you, this cake is packed with flavor and will have everyone asking for the recipe.
7of 20
Moist Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Fruit, Vanilla Extract, Malt Syrup, Sherry, Glucose
A common complaint with fruit cakes is that they can be dry and dense. But fear not, this recipe guarantees a moist and tender cake that will have you coming back for seconds. The secret? A generous amount of butter and eggs in the batter for a rich and decadent cake.
8of 20
Pandoro Christmas Tree Cake (Italian Christmas Cake)
Main Ingredients: Cake, Mascarpone, Vin Santo, Powdered Sugar
Take a trip to Italy with this traditional Christmas cake that is shaped like a Christmas tree. Pandoro, which translates to "golden bread", is a light and fluffy cake that is coated with powdered sugar for a snowy effect. This show-stopping dessert is sure to impress your guests and is perfect for those who prefer a lighter and less dense cake.
9of 20
Fruit Cake - Plum Cake - Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Powder, Baking Soda, Salt
Whatever you call it, this fruit cake is a classic Christmas dessert that is packed with dried fruits and nuts. The plump fruits are soaked in rum or brandy for weeks, resulting in a rich and boozy cake that is full of holiday flavors. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.
10of 20
Cranberry & Lime Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Sugar, Butter, Vanilla, Lime, Flour, Fresh
For a twist on the traditional fruit cake, try this cranberry and lime version. The tart cranberries are balanced out by the zesty lime, creating a refreshing and festive flavor. Plus, the bright red cranberries add a pop of color to the cake, making it a beautiful addition to any holiday table.
11of 20
Pistachio Cherry Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: White Or Yellow Cake Mix, Water, Pudding Mix
Another non-traditional fruit cake, this pistachio cherry cake is a unique and delicious option for your Christmas dessert. The pistachios add a crunch to the cake, while the cherries add a burst of sweetness. Top it off with a cream cheese frosting and you have a show-stopping cake that will have everyone asking for your secret.
12of 20
Fruit Cake | Christmas Cake | Plum Cake
Main Ingredients: Oil, Eggs, Spice, Baking Powder, Vanilla Essence, Lemon
Whatever you want to call it, this fruit cake is a must-have for any Christmas celebration. This recipe combines the best of all worlds, with a mix of dried fruits, nuts, and a generous splash of alcohol. The result? A moist and flavorful cake that will have you singing "Jingle Bells" all night long.
13of 20
Plum Cake, Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Brown Sugar, Melted Butter, Maida, Baking Powder
This plum cake is a classic Christmas dessert that is packed with dried plums and spices. The plums are soaked in brandy or rum, giving the cake a rich and boozy flavor. A sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and depth to this holiday treat.
14of 20
Easy Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Firmly Packed Brown Sugar, Eggs, Orange
If baking isn't your forte, don't worry, this easy Christmas cake recipe is foolproof. With minimal ingredients and simple instructions, you'll have a delicious cake ready in no time. It may be easy, but it certainly doesn't skimp on flavor.
15of 20
Cranberry Almond Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Unsalted Butter, Almond
For a nutty twist on a classic fruit cake, try this cranberry almond version. The almonds add a crunch to the cake, while the cranberries provide a tart and tangy flavor. This cake is perfect for those who want a festive treat without all the traditional dried fruits.
16of 20
Classic Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Raisins, Sultanas, Dried Apricots, Dried Figs, Wine
For those who love tradition, this classic Christmas cake is a must. Made with a generous amount of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, this cake is packed with the flavors of the holiday season. Soak it in brandy or rum for an extra indulgent treat.
No Christmas celebration is complete without a plate of festive sugar cookies. These soft and buttery cookies are a crowd-pleaser and can be decorated with colored icing for a fun and festive touch. Get creative with your designs and have fun with the whole family.
18of 20
Christmas Peppermint Meringue Swirls
Main Ingredients: Egg Whites, Cream Of Tartar, Sugar, Peppermint Extract
If you're looking for a lighter dessert option, these peppermint meringue swirls are for you. These airy and delicate cookies have a hint of peppermint and are perfect for those who want a sweet treat without all the heaviness of a traditional Christmas cake.
19of 20
Christmas Tree Pull-Apart Pizza Bread
Main Ingredients: Finely Grated Parmesan Reggiano Cheese, Pizza Dough
For a savory twist on Christmas desserts, try this pull-apart pizza bread that is shaped like a Christmas tree. This fun and festive appetizer is perfect for a holiday party and is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, you can customize the toppings to your liking.
20of 20
Healthy Christmas Cake
Main Ingredients: Mixed Dried Fruit, Ground Cinnamon, Extract, Nutmeg
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to traditional Christmas desserts, this recipe is for you. Made with whole wheat flour and honey, this cake is a guilt-free option that still delivers on flavor. Plus, the addition of dried fruits and nuts adds a nutritious boost to this holiday treat.
The History of War Time Christmas Cake
The Impact of War on Holiday Traditions
During times of war, food shortages and rationing were a harsh reality for many families. As a result, traditional holiday recipes that required expensive ingredients or long preparation times were often adapted or abandoned altogether. However, the spirit of Christmas and the desire to celebrate persisted, leading to the creation of war time Christmas cake.
The Origins of the Recipe
The exact origins of this recipe are unclear, but it is believed to have emerged during World War II in Britain. The recipe was designed to use basic ingredients that were readily available and could be easily sourced through rationing. This allowed families to still have a special treat on Christmas day, despite the difficult circumstances.
The Ingredients and Method
Ingredients
The ingredients for war time Christmas cake are simple and affordable, making it accessible to all. Flour, sugar, butter, raisins, and spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg are the main components. The use of dried fruit was also common as it could be stored for long periods of time without spoiling.
Method
The method for making this cake is also straightforward. The dry ingredients are mixed together and then combined with melted butter and a small amount of milk. The batter is then poured into a greased cake tin and baked for approximately an hour. The result is a rich and flavorful cake that is perfect for the holiday season.
In Conclusion
The war time Christmas cake recipe may have been born out of necessity, but it has become a cherished tradition for many families. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a timeless recipe that can be enjoyed by all, regardless of the circumstances. So this holiday season, why not honor the resilience of those who came before us and add this delicious cake to your festive menu?
