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Easy Christmas Cake Traybake

Easy Christmas Cake Traybake
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Enjoy a festive and easy-to-make Christmas Cake Traybake filled with warm spices, succulent dried fruits, and optional nuts. This moist and richly flavored cake is perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holiday season. Simple preparation and versatile variations make it ideal for busy cooks looking to spread holiday joy effortlessly.

Ingredients

Scale

Fruits and Nuts

  • 200g dried mixed fruit (raisins, sultanas, cherries, citrus peel)
  • Optional: 50g chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts, almonds) or seeds for nut-free version

Wet Ingredients

  • 150g unsalted butter, softened (or plant-based margarine for vegan)
  • 100ml milk or orange juice (for soaking and moisture)
  • 3 eggs (or flaxseed eggs for vegan alternative)
  • Optional: splash of brandy or spiced rum for soaking fruits

Dry Ingredients

  • 200g self-raising flour (or gluten-free flour blend as substitute)
  • 150g brown sugar
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp mixed spice
  • Optional: zest of 1 orange or lemon for citrus burst

Instructions

  1. Prepare the dried fruits: Soak the dried mixed fruit in warm orange juice or a splash of brandy/spiced rum for at least one hour to boost moisture and intensify sweetness.
  2. Cream butter and sugar: Beat softened butter and brown sugar together in a large bowl until fluffy and light, ensuring a moist and tender crumb.
  3. Add eggs and flavorings: Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in ground cinnamon, mixed spice, and orange or lemon zest if using until well combined.
  4. Mix dry ingredients and fruit: Gently fold in self-raising flour, chopped nuts or seeds if using, and the soaked dried fruits, mixing just until evenly distributed without overmixing.
  5. Transfer and bake: Pour batter into a lined or greased rectangular baking tray, smooth the top evenly, and bake in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 45-55 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the tray before slicing into squares to reveal a dense, festive interior perfect for sharing.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients for smoother blending and better texture.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the crumb light and avoid a dense cake.
  • Line your baking tray with parchment paper with overhangs to remove the cake easily.
  • Test doneness by inserting a skewer in the center; it should come out clean.
  • Allow the cake to cool fully before slicing to improve flavor and ease of cutting.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
  • Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months; defrost overnight in fridge before serving.
  • Warm slices gently in a low oven or microwave to refresh texture and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas cake, traybake, festive dessert, dried fruit cake, holiday baking, easy Christmas cake, moist cake, spiced cake

Find it online: https://elenaglam.com/easy-christmas-cake-traybake/