Christmas is just around the corner, and let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the joy of gathering with loved ones over delicious food for Christmas! The smell of freshly baked treats wafting through the air, the laughter around the table, and the sparkle of festive decorations all come together to create a magical atmosphere. I absolutely adore whipping up holiday recipes that not only taste amazing but also bring a sense of warmth and cheer to any gathering. Trust me, this recipe is a perfect way to celebrate the season! It’s simple, scrumptious, and will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into some delightful holiday baking that’s bound to make your Christmas extra special!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
How to Prepare Instructions
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s get that oven warmed up! Preheating is crucial because it helps your cake bake evenly and rise just right. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it heat up while you get the rest of the ingredients ready. Trust me, this little step makes a big difference in the final result!
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking powder. I like to whisk them together until they’re well blended, which helps prevent any lumps. This also makes sure the baking powder is evenly distributed, so your cake rises beautifully. It’s a quick and easy step that sets the foundation for your delicious treat!
Combine Wet Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add the fun stuff! Toss in the softened butter, eggs, whole milk, and pure vanilla extract into the dry mixture. I usually use a hand mixer for this part, but you can mix by hand if you prefer. Blend everything until the batter is smooth and creamy—don’t worry if it’s a little thick; that’s just how we want it!
Prepare for Baking
Next, grab a greased baking pan and pour in your batter. Make sure to spread it evenly with a spatula, which helps it bake uniformly. If you’re feeling fancy, you can sprinkle some festive decorations right on top before it goes into the oven. It’s such a fun way to add that holiday cheer!
Baking Time
Pop your pan into the preheated oven and set a timer for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges start pulling away from the sides and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Ooh, the smell is going to be heavenly!
Cooling
Once baked, take the cake out and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This is the perfect time to set up your serving platter! When it’s nice and cool, slice it up, and don’t forget to add your favorite toppings or decorations for that extra festive touch. Everyone will love it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make, perfect for those busy holiday schedules!
- Deliciously festive flavor that captures the essence of Christmas.
- Ideal for gatherings—everyone will rave about it!
- Customizable with nuts or festive decorations to suit your taste.
- Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) can be enjoyed for days—what a treat!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After you’ve enjoyed this delightful cake, you might have some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). To keep it fresh, let the cake cool completely and then store it in an airtight container. It’ll stay good at room temperature for about 2 days, but if you want to keep it for longer, pop it in the fridge where it can last up to a week. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best taste!
If you’re craving a slice later on, you can easily reheat it. Just pop a piece in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or you can warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will bring back that deliciously soft texture and warm aroma—perfect for cozying up on a chilly day! Enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the numbers! While I always focus on the deliciousness, it’s good to know what’s in our festive treats, right? Here’s the estimated nutritional data for each slice of this scrumptious cake:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 3g
Keep in mind that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to check labels if you’re watching your intake. But hey, during the holidays, a little indulgence is what it’s all about, right? Enjoy every slice guilt-free!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your cake turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite pro tips that I swear by:
- Check for Doneness: To avoid overbaking, start checking your cake a few minutes before the timer goes off. Insert a toothpick in the center, and if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, you’re golden! If it’s wet, give it a couple more minutes.
- Adjust Sugar to Your Taste: If you like things a little less sweet (or sweeter!), don’t hesitate to adjust the sugar. It’s all about what you enjoy! Just remember, sugar contributes to moisture, so keep that in mind when tweaking the amount.
- Add Festive Decorations: Get creative with toppings! A dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or even some colorful sprinkles can really elevate your cake and make it look extra special. It’s all about that holiday spirit!
- Don’t Skip the Cooling: I know it’s tempting to dive right in, but letting the cake cool completely is key to achieving the best texture. Plus, it helps the flavors meld beautifully!
- Try Adding Nuts: For a delightful crunch, toss in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. They add a whole new layer of flavor and texture that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh eggs, good-quality butter, and fresh vanilla extract if you can. It really makes a difference in taste!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set for baking success! Happy cooking, and enjoy every moment of this festive season!
FAQ Section
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this cake gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just check that the blend contains xanthan gum to help with the texture!
What can I add for variations?
Oh, there are so many options! You can mix in chocolate chips, dried fruits, or even spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a swirl of cream cheese or a layer of jam in the middle before baking!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for about a week. Just remember to let it come back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can! Once the cake is completely cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the freezer for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before serving.
What’s the best way to serve it?
I love serving this cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also add some fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra special touch. Get creative, and make it as festive as you’d like!
Food for Christmas: 7 Scrumptious Treats to Delight You
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious recipes to celebrate Christmas.
Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 3 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and baking powder.
- Add butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Use festive decorations for serving.
- Adjust sugar according to taste.
- Try adding nuts for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Christmas recipes, festive food, holiday cooking
