Christmas and New Year Cake: 7 Festive Delights Await

christmas and new year cake

By:

Julia marin

There’s just something magical about the holiday season that makes me want to fill my kitchen with the warm, sweet aroma of baking. Every year, as soon as December rolls around, I dust off my mixing bowls and embrace the joyful tradition of making my Christmas and New Year cake. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a symbol of celebration, family, and festivity! I remember my grandmother would always whip up a stunning cake, and I loved helping her mix in the dried fruits and nuts. The best part? Sharing a slice with loved ones while reminiscing about cherished memories. Trust me, this cake is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday gatherings, bringing everyone together in a delicious way. So, let’s dive into this recipe that’s sure to become a festive favorite!

Ingredients for Christmas and New Year Cake

Alright, let’s get everything we need to make this festive cake that will surely impress your family and friends! Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup mixed dried fruits, chopped if large (think raisins, currants, and diced apricots!)
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work great)

Make sure to have everything at room temperature before you start; it really makes a difference in how well everything blends together. And trust me, when you see that colorful mix of fruits and nuts, you’ll be even more excited to bake this cake!

How to Prepare the Christmas and New Year Cake

Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s get into the fun part—making this delightful cake! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a gorgeous cake to share with your loved ones in no time.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for getting that perfect rise! While the oven warms up, grab your cake pan (a 9-inch round works beautifully) and grease it well with a bit of unsalted butter. Then, sprinkle a little flour over the butter, shaking out the excess. This ensures your cake will pop right out without any fuss. Oops! Don’t forget to set your greased pan aside for now.

Mixing the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The texture should be smooth and pale, and you can totally feel that holiday spirit kicking in! Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. You want to make sure each egg is fully incorporated before moving on. Then, pour in the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is combined and deliciously fragrant.

Combining Dry Ingredients

Now, let’s tackle those dry ingredients! In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently to combine. Here’s a little tip: don’t overmix! Just fold in the dry ingredients until you see no big flour streaks. Finally, it’s time to fold in that colorful mix of dried fruits and chopped nuts. This will give your cake its festive charm, so be gentle to keep the fruits and nuts evenly distributed!

Baking the Cake

Pour that luscious batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Then, pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You can tell it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—just a few crumbs, not wet batter. Wow, the smell in your kitchen will be heavenly! Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. I can’t wait for you to taste this festive delight!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s talk numbers! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values for each slice of this festive Christmas and New Year cake. Keep in mind that these values can vary a bit depending on the specific ingredients you use, but they should give you a good idea:

  • Calories: 250
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Protein: 4g

These tasty slices are not only festive but also packed with flavor! Enjoying a piece of this cake as part of your holiday celebrations is totally worth it! Just remember, everything in moderation, right? Happy baking!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas and New Year Cake

  • Festive Flavors: This cake is bursting with the wonderful flavors of dried fruits and nuts, making it a true holiday treat!
  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip this up with confidence.
  • Deliciously Moist: The combination of butter and milk ensures a moist and tender crumb that everyone will adore.
  • Perfect for Gatherings: This cake is ideal for sharing at holiday parties, making it the centerpiece of your dessert table.
  • Versatile Options: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite spices or swapping in different dried fruits to suit your taste!
  • Great for All Diets: With a vegetarian-friendly recipe, it accommodates a variety of dietary preferences, so everyone can enjoy a slice.
  • Leftover Delight: If you happen to have any leftovers, this cake stays delicious for days, making it perfect for snacking throughout the holidays.

Tips for Success

To make sure your Christmas and New Year cake turns out absolutely perfect, I’ve got some fantastic tips that I swear by! Trust me, these little tricks can make a big difference in your baking journey.

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are all at room temperature before you start. This helps everything blend together smoothly, giving you a light and fluffy cake.
  • Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until everything is combined—lumps are okay!
  • Measure Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid packing it down. Too much flour can make your cake dry, and nobody wants that!
  • Add a Splash of Festivity: For a fun twist, sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter. It’ll add a warm, holiday flavor that everyone will love!
  • Garnish Delightfully: Once your cake is cooled, consider decorating it with a simple glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar. Fresh fruits like pomegranate seeds or citrus slices also add a beautiful pop of color!
  • Testing for Doneness: Remember, every oven is a bit different! Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time. If your toothpick comes out clean, you’re good to go!
  • Let it Rest: Allow your cake to cool completely before slicing. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully and makes for cleaner slices!

With these tips in your back pocket, I have no doubt you’ll create a stunning cake that’s not only delicious but also a joy to share with your loved ones during the holiday season!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve baked this delightful Christmas and New Year cake, let’s talk about how to make your festive spread even more special! Here are some delicious serving suggestions that pair perfectly with this cake:

  • Warm Beverages: A hot cup of spiced cider or rich eggnog can really complement the flavors of your cake. Imagine sipping on that cozy drink while enjoying a slice—pure holiday bliss!
  • Tea Time: A fragrant cup of chai or a classic Earl Grey tea works wonderfully too. The aromatic spices in the tea will enhance the fruity notes of the cake beautifully.
  • Ice Cream Delight: Serve a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream alongside a warm slice of cake. The creaminess will balance out the moist texture of the cake, creating an irresistible dessert combo!
  • Fruit Compote: Drizzle some homemade fruit compote or a berry sauce over your cake for an extra burst of flavor and a touch of elegance. It adds that gorgeous pop of color and freshness!
  • Cheese Platter: For something a bit different, pair slices of the cake with a selection of cheeses. Creamy brie or tangy goat cheese can offer a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
  • Festive Salads: Consider serving the cake after a light, fresh salad made with seasonal greens, pomegranate seeds, and a citrus vinaigrette. It’s a great way to balance out the richness of the cake!

No matter how you choose to serve it, this Christmas and New Year cake is sure to be the star of your festive gatherings. Enjoy the smiles and happy moments it brings to your table!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve baked this scrumptious Christmas and New Year cake, it’s important to store it properly to keep it fresh and delicious for those holiday gatherings. Here’s how to do it:

  • Storing Leftovers: If you happen to have any cake left (which is rare, trust me!), let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also place it in an airtight container to keep it moist. This way, you can enjoy a slice of holiday cheer even after the celebrations are over!
  • Refrigeration: This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to take it out about 30 minutes before serving to let it come to room temperature—this enhances the flavor and texture!
  • Freezing: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cake! Slice it up and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. It’ll stay good for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready for a slice, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
  • Reheating: If you prefer your cake warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place a slice on a baking sheet. Heat it for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quick reheat—just 15-20 seconds should do the trick! Just be careful not to overdo it, or you might end up with a dry slice.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor the flavors of your Christmas and New Year cake long after the last guest has left. Enjoy every delightful bite!

Share Your Experience

I absolutely love hearing from you, so after you try this fabulous Christmas and New Year cake, please share your thoughts! Did your cake turn out as beautifully as you hoped? What unique twists did you add? I’m all ears and can’t wait to see how you made this recipe your own!

Feel free to leave a comment below to share your experience or any tips you discovered along the way. And if you’re active on social media, snap a pic of your cake and tag me! I’d be thrilled to see your beautiful creations and celebrate this festive season together. Let’s spread the joy of baking and make this holiday even more special!

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christmas and new year cake

Christmas and New Year Cake: 7 Festive Delights Await


  • Autor: Julia marin
  • Gesamtzeit: 55 minutes
  • Ertrag: 12 servings 1x
  • Ernährung: Vegetarisch

Beschreibung

A festive cake perfect for Christmas and New Year celebrations.


Zutaten

Skala
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup mixed dried fruits
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts

Anweisungen

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease and flour a cake pan.
  3. In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar together.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  5. Stir in the milk and vanilla extract.
  6. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
  7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
  8. Fold in the dried fruits and nuts.
  9. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
  10. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  11. Let it cool before serving.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container.
  • Decorate with icing or fresh fruits if desired.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Kochen Zeit: 35 minutes
  • Kategorie: Dessert
  • Methode: Baking
  • Küche: International

Ernährung

  • Portionsgröße: 1 slice
  • Kalorien: 250
  • Zucker: 15g
  • Natrium: 150mg
  • Fett: 10g
  • Gesättigte Fettsäuren: 5g
  • Ungesättigte Fette: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Kohlenhydrate: 35g
  • Faser: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterin: 50mg

Keywords: christmas cake, new year cake, festive cake

Über mich

Hallo, ich bin Julia, das Herz hinter Vihaad Rezepte und eine leidenschaftliche Feinschmeckerin. Meine Liebe zum Kochen begann in meiner Kindheit, inspiriert von den herzhaften Mahlzeiten meiner Großmutter. Heute teile ich schmackhafte Rezepte, die Menschen durch gutes Essen zusammenbringen.

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