A Festive Slice of Heaven

Ever walked into a room and been hit by the warm, spicy aroma of a freshly baked fruit cake? Perfect Christmas Fruit Cake with Brandy is that magical treat! This cake isn’t just your average holiday dessert; it’s a handcrafted blend of rich flavors that takes you right to the heart of Christmas. With its moist texture and delightful hints of brandy, it’ll make your taste buds sing as you savor each slice.

Why Make This Recipe

So, why should you whip up this festive delight? First off, it’s an easy-peasy recipe that anyone can master. Second, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser and perfect for sharing with family and friends (you might even win over that picky cousin!). Plus, it’s a great way to get in the holiday spirit—who wouldn’t want to eat cake that’s been lovingly saturated in brandy? Cheers to that! 🎉

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

225g unsalted butter, softened
225g dark brown sugar
4 large eggs, beaten
225g self-raising flour
1 teaspoon mixed spices
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon molasses
450g mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas)
75g chopped candied fruit
50g chopped almonds
2 tablespoons brandy
Extra brandy for feeding

Directions

Let’s get down to business. Here’s how to create your masterpiece in no time!

Preheat your oven to 150°C. Grease a 20 cm round cake tin and line the bottom with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until it’s nice and fluffy.
Gradually add in the beaten eggs, mixing well after each addition.
Sift the flour and spices into the bowl, folding them gently into the batter.
Stir in the molasses, dried fruit, candied fruit, and almonds until well combined.
Pour the batter into your prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake in the oven for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until a skewer comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cool, poke holes in the cake with a skewer, then brush generously with brandy.
Wrap the cake tightly in baking paper and aluminum foil. Feed it with brandy weekly until Christmas!

How to Make Perfect Christmas Fruit Cake with Brandy: 2 Hours (Overview)

Before diving in, here’s a quick rundown of the process. Start by creaming the butter and sugar. It’s like a hug for your taste buds! Mix in the eggs, and then gently fold in the dry ingredients. Finally, add the fruits and nuts, pour into your tin, and let it bake until golden brown. Pro tip: Don’t skip checking with that skewer; it’s your best friend for cake doneness!

How to Serve Perfect Christmas Fruit Cake with Brandy: 2 Hours

When it comes to serving this cake, let your creativity flourish! Slice it up and serve it plain for a classic touch. Or, dress it up with a dusting of icing sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream beside it. Imagine the golden-brown crust, the lush, moist interior studded with dried fruits, and that intoxicating aroma wafting through the air—what’s not to love?

How to Store Perfect Christmas Fruit Cake with Brandy: 2 Hours

This cake is not just a one-night wonder! It’ll keep for several weeks when stored in an airtight container. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can also freeze it for up to three months. Just wrap it well to keep it nice and moist. Need a sweet treat in a jiffy? Let it thaw overnight, and you’re good to go!

Tips to Make Perfect Christmas Fruit Cake with Brandy: 2 Hours

Here are a few insider tricks to knock this out of the park:

Chop your dried fruits into smaller pieces for even distribution.
Don’t rush the creaming stage; it’s key to a fluffy cake!
Experiment with different nuts or dried fruits; the options are endless!
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a hint of orange zest for a citrus twist. 🍊

Variation

Want to shake things up? Try using spiced rum instead of brandy for a festive twist. Or go vegan by swapping in flax eggs and plant-based butter. The flavors will still dazzle but in a different way!

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake actually gets better with age, so feel free to bake it weeks before you need it.

What can I use instead of brandy?
You can use orange juice or apple cider if you prefer a non-alcoholic option.

How do I know when the cake is done?
Stick a toothpick or skewer in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, you’re ready to rock!

Now, don’t just sit there imagining the flavors; get in that kitchen and start baking! Your taste buds will thank you. 📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!