Immerse yourself in the warmth of Christmas tradition with the timeless delight of the Christmas cake, a rich and flavorful confection brimming with the spirit of the season.
ingredients
350g mixed dried fruits, 175g self-raising flour, 175g ground almonds, 175g soft butter, 175g light muscovado sugar, 4 eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp mixed spice, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, 100ml brandy or orange juice
Begin by soaking the dried fruits in brandy or orange juice, allowing them to plump up and infuse with rich flavors.
In a large bowl, whisk together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, creating a base for the cake's rich texture.
Gradually add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, whisking gently to incorporate them without deflating the airiness.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, almonds, mixed spice, and nutmeg. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently to combine.
Gently fold the soaked dried fruits into the batter, distributing their rich flavors throughout the mixture.
Pour the batter into a greased and lined cake tin and bake until golden brown, allowing the cake to rise and develop its moist and flavorful texture.
Unleash your creativity by decorating the cake with festive icing, dried fruits, and holly sprigs, transforming it into a centerpiece of Christmas cheer.
Savor the rich flavors and Christmas spirit embodied in each slice of the cake, carrying on the culinary traditions that make this dessert so cherished.