Christmas Cake Recipe | Ingredients, Steps, Tips

Christmas is a time for joy, celebration, and, of course, indulgence in delicious treats. Among the most beloved festive traditions is the classic Christmas cake—a rich, fruit-filled dessert that brings warmth and flavour to the holiday season. Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying your hand at making this festive staple for the first time, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

In this post, I’ll guide you through a simple yet traditional Christmas cake recipe, perfect for creating a centrepiece worthy of your holiday table. So, put on your apron, grab your mixing bowl, and let’s bring some festive cheer into the kitchen!

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make a classic Christmas cake. Be sure to measure accurately for the best results!

For the Soaked Fruits

• 500g mixed dried fruits (raisins, sultanas, currants)
• 100g chopped dried apricots
• 100g glacé cherries, halved
• 100g chopped mixed peel
• 150ml brandy, rum, or orange juice (for a non-alcoholic version)

For the Cake Batter

• 250g unsalted butter, softened
• 250g dark brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 250g plain flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp mixed spice
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• Zest of 1 orange
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 50g ground almonds

Optional Decorations

• Marzipan
• Royal icing or fondant
• Nuts, dried fruits, or festive sprinkles for topping

For Feeding the Cake (Optional)

• Additional brandy, rum, or orange juice

With these ingredients, you’ll have all you need to create a moist, flavourful Christmas cake that’s perfect for the holiday season!

Preparation Steps

Follow these steps to create your delicious Christmas cake:

Step 1: Soak the Fruits (Ideally in Advance)

1. Place the mixed dried fruits, apricots, cherries, and mixed peel into a large bowl.
2. Pour over the brandy, rum, or orange juice and stir well.
3. Cover the bowl with cling film and leave to soak overnight, or for up to a week for deeper flavour. Stir occasionally to ensure the fruits absorb the liquid evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 150°C (130°C fan) or gas mark 2. Grease and line a deep 20cm (8-inch) round cake tin with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and dark brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Sift the plain flour, baking powder, mixed spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg into the bowl. Add the orange and lemon zest, then gently fold everything together.
5. Mix in the soaked fruits (including any remaining liquid) and ground almonds until evenly combined.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Wrap the outside of the tin with a double layer of brown paper or parchment to prevent over-browning.
3. Bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
4. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the tin for 30 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Feed and Store the Cake

1. Once cooled, poke small holes across the top of the cake using a skewer. Spoon over 2–3 tablespoons of brandy, rum, or orange juice to “feed” the cake.
2. Wrap the cake tightly in parchment paper, then in foil. Store in an airtight container.
3. Repeat feeding the cake once a week until ready to decorate or serve.

Step 5: Decorate the Cake (Optional)

1. Roll out marzipan and lay it over the cake for a smooth base layer.
2. Top with royal icing or fondant for a traditional finish, or decorate with nuts, dried fruits, or festive sprinkles for a simpler look.

My 10 Tips for Success

Making a perfect Christmas cake can be a rewarding experience with the right techniques. Keep these tips in mind for the best results:

1. Soak the Fruits in Advance: For a richer flavour, soak your dried fruits for at least a week, or even up to a month. Stir occasionally to ensure even absorption of the liquid.
2. Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality butter, sugar, and dried fruits to enhance the taste of your cake. Fresh spices will also make a noticeable difference.
3. Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, so use precise measurements for the ingredients to maintain the right balance.
4. Prevent a Dry Cake: Avoid overbaking by checking your cake 10-15 minutes before the suggested baking time ends. Insert a skewer into the centre; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
5. Wrap the Cake While Baking: Protect your cake from over-browning by wrapping the outside of the tin with parchment paper or brown paper.
6. Feed the Cake Regularly: To keep the cake moist and flavourful, “feed” it weekly with brandy, rum, or orange juice. Poke holes in the top to help the liquid soak in.
7. Allow the Cake to Rest: Let the cake cool completely before wrapping it up for storage. This helps it mature and develop its flavours over time.
8. Customise to Taste: Substitute ingredients to suit your preferences, such as swapping alcohol for orange juice or using your favourite nuts and spices.
9. Plan Ahead for Decoration: Leave enough time for the marzipan to dry before adding the icing to prevent it from becoming sticky.
10. Store Properly: Wrap the cake tightly in parchment paper and foil, then store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from drying out.

With these tips, you’ll create a Christmas cake that’s not only delicious but also a showstopper on your festive table!

Conclusion

A homemade Christmas cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a labour of love and a cherished tradition that adds warmth and joy to the holiday season. By following this recipe and the tips shared, you can create a beautifully moist and flavourful cake that will impress your family and friends. Whether you opt for a classic decoration or something more creative, your cake is sure to be the highlight of your festive celebrations.

So, gather your ingredients, put on some Christmas music, and enjoy the process of baking your perfect Christmas cake. Here’s to a season filled with delicious moments and sweet memories—Merry Christmas!