The aroma of cinnamon and sweet fruits wafts through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy holiday gatherings with family and friends. As someone who cherishes homemade treats, I can’t resist the allure of this Easy Christmas Fruitcake Traybake. A jubilant twist on a traditional dessert, this recipe boasts a rich tapestry of brandy-soaked dried fruits nestled within a buttery cake base. It’s remarkably simple to whip up, making it perfect for both experienced bakers and those new to the kitchen. Not only does it shine as a stunning centerpiece for festive celebrations, but every bite is a delightful blend of flavors that evokes the warmth of the season. Curious about how this easy-to-make treat can elevate your holiday dessert table? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Choose This Easy Christmas Cake Traybake?
Simplicity: Whipping up this festive dessert is a breeze, requiring minimal baking expertise!
Rich Flavor: The delightful combination of brandy-soaked fruits and buttery cake creates an explosion of flavors in every bite.
Visual Appeal: Topped with a smooth layer of marzipan and fondant, this traybake will wow your guests and become a talk of the table!
Versatility: Feel free to swap ingredients for dietary needs—think flaxseed for eggs or a gluten-free flour blend for a lighter option!
Time-Saving: This recipe is not just quick to make, but it’s also perfect for batch baking ahead of holiday gatherings. Elevate your dessert table further by pairing it with Savory Baked Meatballs for a well-rounded feast!
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfectly suited for family dinners, holiday parties, or as a festive gift, it’s sure to win hearts and taste buds alike!
Easy Christmas Cake Traybake Ingredients
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For the Cake Base
• Dried Mixed Fruit – Adds natural sweetness and texture; substitute with figs, dates, or cranberries for a unique twist.
• Unsalted Butter – Ensures moisture and richness; margarine or dairy-free alternatives can work in a pinch.
• Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps the cake brown; swapping brown sugar enhances the flavor depth.
• Eggs – Binds the ingredients for structure; for a vegan option, consider using flaxseed meal or applesauce.
• All-Purpose Flour – The foundation of the cake; gluten-free alternatives are available for those with dietary restrictions.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Brandy – Infuses the cake with flavor and moisture; opt for orange juice or apple cider as a non-alcoholic substitute. -
For the Decoration
• Marzipan – Adds flavor and a smooth texture to the topping; can be exchanged for a simple icing if preferred.
• Fondant – Finishes the cake with a sweet layer; consider an icing glaze for a less complicated look.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Christmas Cake Traybake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the Easy Christmas Cake Traybake. This step is crucial, as it helps the cake rise beautifully and bake evenly. While waiting for the oven, gather your baking equipment, including a traybake pan, mixing bowls, and an electric mixer.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer. The fluffy texture signals that the butter has aerated properly, setting up your Easy Christmas Cake Traybake for success. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Continue until all eggs are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and pale in color. This process ensures that your cake has a rich structure. If you’re using any egg substitutes, blend them in well to maintain the desired consistency.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder until well combined. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just incorporated. The batter should be thick but not over-mixed, maintaining a light and airy structure for your Easy Christmas Cake Traybake.
Step 5: Add Fruits and Brandy
Once your batter is ready, fold in the dried mixed fruit and brandy gently to ensure even distribution throughout the cake. The fruity aroma will begin to fill your kitchen, hinting at the delightful flavors to come. Be careful not to overmix; a few gentle folds are all you need to incorporate the ingredients without deflating the batter.
Step 6: Bake the Traybake
Transfer the mixture into a greased traybake pan, smoothing the top with the back of a spoon or an offset spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This bake time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a moist and delicious Easy Christmas Cake Traybake.
Step 7: Cool the Cake
After baking, remove the traybake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is essential to prevent sogginess, setting the perfect foundation for your festive decorations once the cake is fully cooled.
Step 8: Decorate the Cake
Once the cake has cooled, it’s time to get creative with your decorations! Apply a smooth layer of marzipan over the top of your Easy Christmas Cake Traybake, followed by fondant for a traditional touch. If you prefer a simpler approach, you may also opt for a light icing glaze. This visually stunning finish will surely enhance your holiday gatherings and festive displays!
Easy Christmas Cake Traybake Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this festive recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
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Vegan Delight: Swap eggs for flaxseed meal mixed with water or applesauce and use dairy-free butter to make this cake eggless and plant-based.
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Flavor Boost: Experiment with spices by adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the cake batter for a warm, holiday-inspired flavor profile.
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Nutty Texture: Fold in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to add a delightful crunch and heartiness to each slice of the traybake.
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Fruit Variations: Change up the dried fruits in your cake; use sun-dried cherries, chopped apricots, or raisins for your own unique blend of flavors.
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Decadent Chocolate: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top before adding marzipan for a decadent chocolate layer that complements the fruity cake.
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Zesty Twist: Add a splash of fresh orange juice or zest to the batter to brighten up the flavors, giving it a refreshing citrus touch.
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Berry Goodness: For a festive twist, fold in some dried blueberries or cranberries, giving this cake a holiday-themed berry boost.
Pair this traybake with a warm cup of coffee or tea, or consider serving it alongside a dish of Classic Chicken Salad Dish to create a well-rounded celebration!
Expert Tips for Easy Christmas Cake Traybake
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Fruit Soaking: Allow your dried mixed fruits to soak in brandy for several hours or overnight; this intensifies the flavors and moisture in your cake.
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Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming with sugar; this helps achieve a light and fluffy batter for your Easy Christmas Cake Traybake.
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Do Not Overmix: When combining your dry ingredients with wet, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so be gentle!
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Cool Completely: Always let your cake cool completely before decorating; warm cake can cause icing to melt and ruin your festive look.
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Decorative Flexibility: Get creative with decorations! Use fruits, nuts, or edible glitter to personalize your Easy Christmas Cake Traybake and make it even more festive.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Christmas Cake Traybake
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Room Temperature: Store the Easy Christmas Cake Traybake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps the cake moist and delicious for your holiday gatherings.
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Fridge: If you prefer, you can keep the cake in the fridge for up to 10 days. Just ensure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent it from absorbing any odors.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unadorned traybake for up to 3 months. Wrap it in plastic wrap and then foil to secure freshness, and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator when ready to serve.
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Reheating: If desired, you can gently reheat the sliced cake in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This enhances the flavors and delivers a warm, inviting treat for your festive celebrations!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Christmas Cake Traybake delights are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cake base up to 3 days in advance by baking it, letting it cool completely, and then wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature to prevent drying out. For a visually appealing finish, decorate your traybake with marzipan and fondant just 24 hours before serving to ensure they look their best. This way, you can enjoy a beautifully festive dessert with minimal last-minute effort, allowing you to focus on other holiday preparations and festivities!
What to Serve with Easy Christmas Cake Traybake
The holiday season is all about creating joyful memories around the table, and what better way to complement your festive dessert than with delightful pairings?
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Spiced Mulled Wine: This warm, aromatic drink, infused with seasonal spices, enhances the cake’s fruity notes, creating a cozy holiday atmosphere.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this smooth treat adds a rich and cooling contrast to the warm cake, balancing flavors beautifully.
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Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with tangy dressing provides a refreshing contrast, clearing the palate between bites of rich fruitcake.
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Roasted Chestnuts: Their buttery flavor brings a comforting warmth that echoes the cake’s festive spirit, perfect for snacking during Christmas gatherings.
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Chocolate-Dipped Biscotti: These crunchy delights offer a touch of indulgence alongside your traybake, making for an elegant coffee break pair.
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Traditional English Tea: A perfectly brewed cup of tea complements the spiced flavors of the Easy Christmas Cake Traybake and rounds out a comforting holiday meal.
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Fruit Compote: Drizzling a homemade fruit compote over slices of cake adds an extra layer of fruity goodness and a touch of tartness that enhances the overall taste.
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Almond Milk Hot Chocolate: This creamy beverage, with its nutty undertones, pairs harmoniously with the cake’s rich flavors, inviting warmth and nostalgia.
These delicious accompaniments will ensure your holiday gatherings are filled with laughter, warmth, and the delightful flavors of Christmas!
Easy Christmas Cake Traybake Recipe FAQs
What kind of dried mixed fruits should I use?
Absolutely! The classic mixture includes raisins, sultanas, and currants, but feel free to get creative. You can substitute with dried figs, dates, or cranberries for a unique twist. Just ensure that whatever fruits you choose are plump and free from dark spots, as this can indicate they’ve gone bad.
How should I store the Easy Christmas Cake Traybake?
To keep your traybake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. It’s best enjoyed when moist, so wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap first can help maintain its delicious texture. If you’re looking to enjoy it longer, you can stick it in the fridge for up to 10 days.
Can I freeze the Easy Christmas Cake Traybake?
Yes, you can! For longer preservation, freeze the unadorned traybake for up to 3 months. Start by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, then cover with foil for added protection. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and you’ll have a delightful treat ready to serve!
What if my cake rises too much in the middle?
Very good question! If you notice this happening, it’s likely due to an overmixing during the batter preparation or an oven temperature that’s too high. To help create an even bake, whisk the dry ingredients just until combined with the wet ones, and make sure your oven temperature is accurate using an oven thermometer.
Can I make this recipe vegan or gluten-free?
Absolutely! For a vegan version, alternate the eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) or applesauce. For a gluten-free version, using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend will work beautifully. Just ensure to check other ingredients like the baking powder or substitutes for any hidden gluten.
Is this cake safe for pets or those with nut allergies?
Yes, as this Easy Christmas Cake Traybake primarily contains safe ingredients for humans, it is pet-friendly as long as your dog or cat doesn’t have sensitivities to any of the fruits used. However, if you’re serving this dessert to guests with nut allergies, be sure to omit any nuts from decorations and verify that all your ingredients are nut-free!
Easy Christmas Cake Traybake that Spreads Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the Easy Christmas Cake Traybake.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until the mixture is smooth and pale.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder, then gradually add to the wet ingredients, stirring gently.
- Fold in the dried mixed fruit and brandy gently to ensure even distribution.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased traybake pan and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the traybake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, apply a smooth layer of marzipan followed by fondant or a light icing glaze.