Ah, the holiday season! It’s that magical time of year when the air is filled with the scent of pine and spices, and families gather to create beautiful memories. One of my favorite traditions is baking a *Christmas pound cake* that my grandmother passed down to me. This cake is rich, moist, and absolutely bursting with flavor, thanks to the delightful mix of dried fruits that remind me of festive cheer. It’s the perfect centerpiece for any holiday table, and trust me, the moment you slice into it, you’ll be enveloped in warmth and nostalgia. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that you’ll want to make it every year! Let’s dive into making this delicious cake that will surely become a beloved part of your holiday festivities too!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – This is the foundation of your cake, giving it a rich and creamy texture.
- 2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetness is key, and this will help create that lovely golden crust.
- 4 large eggs – They add moisture and structure, making your cake beautifully airy.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – The base for your batter, giving it body and that perfect pound cake density.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – This little helper ensures your cake rises beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to enhance all those wonderful flavors!
- 1 cup milk – It keeps the cake moist and adds a lovely richness.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – For that warm, comforting flavor we all adore.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract – A little twist that adds a delightful nutty aroma.
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits – The star of the show! This blend brings a burst of sweetness and festive flair to every slice.
How to Prepare *Christmas Pound Cake*
Making this *Christmas pound cake* is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with holiday cheer! Let’s get started, shall we? First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because you want your cake to bake evenly and beautifully. While that’s heating up, grab a large mixing bowl and cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes, and oh, the smell is heavenly!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Once your butter and sugar are fluffy, it’s time to add the eggs! Do this one at a time, mixing well after each addition. You want to ensure they’re fully incorporated—trust me, this makes a world of difference in texture!
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This blend is essential for giving your cake that perfect rise and crumb.
- Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to your butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. It’s like a little dance—mix, add, mix, add! This ensures everything is well combined without overmixing.
- Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts, and then gently fold in those lovely mixed dried fruits. The fruit adds such a festive touch and bursts of flavor in every bite!
- Finally, pour the batter into a greased loaf pan. Smooth the top a bit with a spatula, then pop it into the oven. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. The aroma that fills your home will have everyone eagerly waiting!
Once done, let it cool for a bit before slicing. You’ll want to savor every moist, delicious bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, Moist Flavor: This *Christmas pound cake* is a delightful blend of buttery goodness and sweet dried fruits, creating an irresistible flavor profile that’s perfect for the holidays.
- Festive Appeal: The vibrant colors from the mixed dried fruits make this cake a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table, instantly elevating your festive gatherings.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, even beginner bakers can whip up this cake without a hitch. It’s all about mixing and pouring!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This cake can be made in advance, letting you enjoy more time with family and friends during the busy holiday season.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it plain for a cozy treat or dress it up with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze—either way, it’s delightful!
- Perfect for Gifting: Wrap it up beautifully, and you’ve got a heartfelt gift that friends and family will cherish, making this cake a wonderful holiday tradition.
Tips for Success
To ensure your *Christmas pound cake* turns out perfectly every time, I’ve got a few handy tips that I swear by! First off, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before you start mixing. This helps it blend seamlessly with the sugar, creating that light and fluffy texture we love. If it’s too cold, you’ll end up with lumps—yikes!
Next, when adding the eggs, beat them slightly beforehand. This helps them incorporate better into the batter, making your cake more uniform. And don’t rush the mixing process; take your time to combine everything thoroughly, especially when alternating the dry ingredients and milk. This little step helps prevent overmixing, which can make your cake dense. Nobody wants that!
Also, keep an eye on your baking time! Every oven is different, so I recommend checking your cake around the 60-minute mark. If the toothpick comes out with a few crumbs but not wet batter, it’s perfect! If it needs a little more time, just keep checking every 5 minutes or so.
Finally, let your cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps it set and prevents it from breaking apart when you flip it out. Trust me, these little tips will make all the difference in achieving that deliciously moist *Christmas pound cake* that everyone will love!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your *Christmas pound cake*, the possibilities are as delightful as the cake itself! I love to slice it thick and pair it with a steaming cup of spiced chai or a rich hot chocolate—nothing beats that cozy combo on a chilly winter evening. For an extra festive touch, you can top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, letting it melt into the warm cake. Yum!
If you’re feeling fancy, why not drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of milk over the top? It adds a sweet finishing touch that looks beautiful. And don’t forget about garnishing with fresh berries or a sprinkle of nuts for a bit of crunch and color. Whatever you choose, your *Christmas pound cake* is sure to shine as the star of your holiday spread!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your *Christmas pound cake* properly is essential to keep it fresh and delicious! First off, once your cake has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps lock in moisture and prevents it from drying out. If you have a cake dome or a cake keeper, that works beautifully too!
You can store the wrapped cake at room temperature for up to a week. It’s perfect for those spontaneous holiday cravings! If you want it to last longer, I recommend freezing it. Just slice the cake first, then wrap each piece individually. Place them in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever the mood strikes!
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cake, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can also leave it at room temperature for a couple of hours. For a warm treat, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—just enough to take the chill off without drying it out. Trust me, that little bit of warmth makes the flavors sing! Enjoy your cake and the joy it brings throughout the season!
Nutritional Information
Before diving into the deliciousness of your *Christmas pound cake*, it’s good to know a bit about the nutrition. Just keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so they’re not set in stone!
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
So, whether you’re enjoying a slice as a festive treat or sharing it with family and friends, it’s nice to have a little insight into what’s in your cake. Happy baking!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit in the *Christmas pound cake*?
While fresh fruit is delicious, it contains more moisture and can affect the texture of your cake. I recommend sticking with dried fruits for that perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness!
How can I make my *Christmas pound cake* more festive?
You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, holiday flavor. Another fun idea is to glaze the cake with a simple icing made of powdered sugar and festive colors or top it with candied fruits for extra flair!
Can I make this *Christmas pound cake* gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just make sure to check that your other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free!
How do I know when my *Christmas pound cake* is done baking?
The best way to check is to insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is done. If there’s wet batter on it, give it a few more minutes!
Can I freeze the *Christmas pound cake*?
Yes, you can! Just slice it first and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then store in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months. Perfect for enjoying later!
Christmas Pound Cake: 7 Steps to Festive Perfection
- Total Time: 100 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and moist cake perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk.
- Stir in vanilla and almond extracts.
- Fold in mixed dried fruits.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool before serving.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Can be served plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Add nuts for extra texture if desired.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: christmas pound cake
