Oh, there’s just something magical about holiday baking, isn’t there? The warm spices, the sweetness wafting through the kitchen, and the joy of sharing treats with loved ones. Every year, I find myself excitedly diving into my favorite recipes, but this *Christmas cookie cake* has quickly become a beloved tradition in my household. It’s like a big, cozy hug in cake form, combining all those classic cookie flavors we adore—think chocolate chips and a hint of peppermint from crushed candy canes. Yum!
Let me tell you, one of my fondest memories is baking with my grandma during the holidays. She would always have her trusty apron on, and we’d spend hours mixing, rolling, and decorating cookies. While we made a mess (and probably ate more dough than we should have), the laughter and love were what made those moments special. This cake reminds me of those sweet times, and I love how it brings that festive spirit to the table without all the fuss of individual cookies. It’s perfect for gatherings, and trust me, everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delightful *Christmas cookie cake*. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This is your base—make sure it’s spooned and leveled for accuracy!
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: I always let mine sit out for a bit before mixing; it helps create that creamy texture we want.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: A classic sweetener that adds just the right touch of sweetness.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar: Make sure to pack it in tightly for a rich, caramel-like flavor.
- 2 large eggs: These add moisture and help bind everything together, so don’t skip them!
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Pure vanilla is best for that warm, inviting aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: This is your leavening agent, helping the cake rise and become fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
- 1 cup chocolate chips: I love using semi-sweet, but feel free to go dark or milk chocolate if that’s more your style!
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes: These give a festive crunch and a pop of peppermint flavor that screams holiday cheer.
How to Prepare the *Christmas Cookie Cake*
Making this *Christmas cookie cake* is a breeze, and I promise you’ll have it ready in no time! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a festive dessert that everyone will love. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: First things first, set that oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is key to ensuring your cake bakes evenly, so don’t skip this step!
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for getting that perfect texture!
- Add the eggs and vanilla: Crack in those two large eggs and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth. You’ll love that sweet aroma filling your kitchen!
- Mix the dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking soda, so your cake rises perfectly.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your cake tender and soft!
- Fold in the goodies: Now for the fun part! Gently fold in the chocolate chips and crushed candy canes. The crunch from the candy canes and the gooey chocolate will make this cake irresistible!
- Pour into the pan: Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and pour your lovely batter into it, spreading it out evenly. Make sure it’s nice and smooth on top.
- Bake it up: Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
- Cool before serving: Once done, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps set the flavors and makes it easier to cut!
And there you have it! Simple, straightforward, and oh-so-delicious. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this festive cake comes together, and I guarantee it’ll be a hit at your holiday gatherings!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This cake comes together in just about 50 minutes, making it the perfect last-minute dessert for any holiday gathering!
- Festive Flavors: It captures all the deliciousness of classic Christmas cookies—think chocolate, peppermint, and buttery goodness—in every bite.
- Beautiful Centerpiece: The vibrant colors from the chocolate chips and crushed candy canes make this cake visually appealing, making it a stunning addition to your dessert table.
- Perfect for Sharing: It yields 12 generous slices, so there’s plenty to go around for family and friends—everyone loves a slice of holiday cheer!
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite mix-ins or toppings, like nuts or a drizzle of frosting, to make it your own!
- A Memory Maker: Just like my grandma’s baking brought joy to our holidays, this cake is sure to create sweet memories with your loved ones.
Tips for Success
To make sure your *Christmas cookie cake* turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips I’ve picked up along the way:
- Measure Carefully: Baking is a science, so it’s crucial to measure your ingredients accurately. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour—spoon it into your measuring cup and then level it off with a knife. This helps avoid a too-dense cake!
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start mixing. This allows for better incorporation and results in a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, and we want it to be soft and tender!
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test if your cake is done. Insert it into the center, and if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready! If it’s got wet batter on it, give it a few more minutes.
- Let It Cool: Patience is key! Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps it set properly and makes for easier slicing.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for longer freshness, just let it come to room temperature before serving.
Following these tips will help ensure that your *Christmas cookie cake* turns out delightful, just like the ones I remember from my holiday baking days. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s chat about the nutritional side of this delicious *Christmas cookie cake*. Here’s what you can expect per slice, which is typically a generous portion:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 3g
Keep in mind, these values are based on typical ingredients, and they can vary depending on the brands you choose. So, if you’re counting anything specific, just double-check those labels! Regardless, this cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for the holidays. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
I know you might have some questions about this *Christmas cookie cake*, so let’s dive into a few common ones I often get!
Can I add nuts to the cake?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would make a lovely addition, adding some crunch and depth to the flavor. Just fold them in along with the chocolate chips and crushed candy canes.
What if I don’t have crushed candy canes?
No worries at all! You can substitute them with other festive mix-ins like mini marshmallows, toffee bits, or even dried cranberries for a different twist. It’s all about what you love!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it fresh longer, pop it in the fridge. Just let it come back to room temperature before serving again. Trust me, it’s still delicious!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just bake it a day or two before your gathering and keep it covered until you’re ready to serve.
How can I adjust the sweetness?
If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the granulated sugar by about 1/4 cup. Just keep in mind that it might affect the texture a bit, but it’ll still be tasty!
Can I frost this cake?
Oh, definitely! A simple cream cheese frosting or a light whipped cream topping would be heavenly on this *Christmas cookie cake*. Just don’t overdo it—this cake is sweet enough on its own!
Can I freeze the cake?
You sure can! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying!
I hope these answers help you as you embark on your baking adventure! Enjoy every slice of your *Christmas cookie cake* and all the memories it brings!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After you’ve enjoyed the deliciousness of your *Christmas cookie cake*, you might be wondering how to keep those leftover slices fresh and tasty. Here’s how to store and reheat it, so you can savor that festive flavor even after the holiday party!
To store your cake, simply place any leftovers in an airtight container. If you’re using a cake pan, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. It’ll stay good at room temperature for about 3 days. If you want to extend its life a little longer, pop it in the fridge, where it can last for up to a week. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before diving in for the best flavor and texture!
If you find yourself with some slices still lingering after a few days, or if you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cake! Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. This way, they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. You can also warm it up in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if you want that cozy, just-baked feeling again. Trust me, it’s like a little piece of holiday magic in every bite!
Drucken
Christmas Cookie Cake: 7 Steps to Holiday Bliss
- Gesamtzeit: 50 minutes
- Ertrag: 12 servings 1x
- Ernährung: Vegetarisch
Beschreibung
A festive cake that combines the flavors of Christmas cookies in a delicious dessert.
Zutaten
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes
Anweisungen
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and crushed candy canes.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Can be topped with frosting or whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Kochen Zeit: 30 minutes
- Kategorie: Dessert
- Methode: Baking
- Küche: American
Ernährung
- Portionsgröße: 1 slice
- Kalorien: 250
- Zucker: 18g
- Natrium: 150mg
- Fett: 12g
- Gesättigte Fettsäuren: 7g
- Ungesättigte Fette: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Kohlenhydrate: 35g
- Faser: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterin: 40mg
Keywords: christmas cookie cake











