Traditional Christmas Cake
A rich, fruity cake symbolizing celebration, perfect for the festive season, enjoyed throughout the holidays with family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 cup 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup 1 cup (220g) granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 4 large 4 large eggs
- 2 cups 2 cups (300g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp 1 tsp baking powder
- ⅓ tsp 1/3 tsp salt
- 3 cups 3 cups (500g) sultanas
- 1.5 cups 1 1/2 cups (250g) mixed glacé fruit (cherries, pineapple, citrus peel, etc.)
- 1 cup 1 cup (150g) raisins (optional but traditional) Optional
- 1 cup 1 cup (120g) chopped almonds or mixed nuts
- ½ cup 1/2 cup (120ml) milk (or orange juice) Milk or orange juice can be used
- 1 tsp 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp 1 tsp almond extract (optional but delicious) Optional
- to taste Extra glacé fruit or almonds for decorating (optional) For decoration
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 150°C (300°F). Line an 8-inch (20 cm) deep round cake pan with baking paper.
- Beat the butter and sugar together until pale and fluffy. Then, add the lemon zest.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. If the mixture curdles, add 1 tablespoon of flour.
- In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add half of the dry mixture into the butter mixture. Then, add the milk (or orange juice), vanilla, and almond extract. Finally, mix in the remaining dry mixture gently.
- Fold in the sultanas, glacé fruits, raisins (if using), and almonds, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Scoop the batter into the lined pan and smooth the top. Optionally, decorate with whole glacé fruits or almonds.
Baking
- Bake at 150°C (300°F) for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then turn it out onto a rack to cool completely.
Notes
To keep your Traditional Christmas Cake fresh, wrap it tightly in baking paper or foil, and store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It can last for up to 4 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. Consider soaking the dried fruits in alcohol or juice for a richer flavor and moisture.
