This classic Christmas Cake is packed with dried fruits, warm spices, and festive flavor! By substituting the brandy with fruit juice or tea, this version is alcohol-free, perfect for family gatherings. This dense, moist cake tastes even better as it ages, so you can make it in advance and let the flavors develop over time. 🎅✨
Ingredients:
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened 🧈
1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar 🍂
4 large eggs 🥚
Zest of 1 lemon 🍋
Zest of 1 orange 🍊
1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour 🌾
1/2 teaspoon baking powder 🧁
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 🍂
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 🥄
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 🌿
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 🍃
3 cups (500g) mixed dried fruits (such as raisins, currants, and sultanas) 🍇
1/2 cup (80g) candied peel 🍬
1/2 cup (80g) chopped glacé cherries 🍒
1/2 cup (120ml) apple juice, orange juice, or strong black tea ☕ (instead of brandy or rum)
Optional: Extra juice or tea for brushing 🍸
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper. 📏
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and dark brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. 💛
- Add Eggs and Zest: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon and orange zests for a burst of fresh flavor. 🍋🍊
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This will help distribute the spices evenly. 🌾🧂
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add Fruits and Liquid: Stir in the mixed dried fruits, candied peel, and cherries. Pour in the apple juice (or chosen substitute) and mix thoroughly, ensuring the fruits are well distributed. 🍇☕
- Prepare for Baking: Spoon the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to make sure it’s even. 🍴
- Bake: Place the cake in the oven and bake for 2 ½ to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. ⏲️
- Cool and Brush (Optional): Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. For added moisture and flavor, you can brush the cake with extra juice or tea. 🎄
- Optional: Wrap and Store: If you prefer to let the cake age, wrap it tightly in parchment paper and store it in an airtight container. Letting it rest for several weeks can deepen the flavors. 🎁
Serving and Storing:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 2.5-3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Calories: Approx. 350 kcal per slice
- Yield: 12 slices
Serve this festive treat at your holiday gathering or enjoy it as a cozy dessert for winter nights. The rich, spiced cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee and can be enjoyed by everyone, alcohol-free!