If you’re on the hunt for a holiday treat that bursts with classic seasonal flavors but is delightfully simple to make and even easier to share, the Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake is your new best friend. Picture a moist, spiced cake studded with a colorful mix of dried fruits and crunchy nuts, all wrapped up in warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, with a zesty orange twist. This traybake captures everything joyful about the festive season in a single, easy-to-slice tray, perfect for family gatherings or for gifting to friends who will love a homemade touch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture while keeping things straightforward and approachable. From the rich butter to the zingy orange zest, each element has a vital role.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a creamy base that keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 1 cup brown sugar: Adds a deep caramel sweetness that enhances the festive spices.
- 4 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s soft crumb.
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation for the cake’s texture.
- 1½ tsp baking powder: Ensures the cake rises perfectly, keeping it light.
- ½ tsp cinnamon + ¼ tsp nutmeg: Classic warming spices that evoke holiday memories.
- 1½ cups mixed dried fruit (raisins, cherries, apricots): Adds bursts of chewy sweetness and festive color.
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans): Introduces crunch and a subtly earthy flavor.
- Zest of 1 orange: Brightens the whole cake with a fresh citrus aroma.
- Optional: 2 tbsp brandy or orange juice: For a little extra moisture and complexity, plus that traditional fruitcake kick.
- Powdered sugar, for dusting: A pretty finishing touch that adds just a hint of sweetness.
How to Make Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake
Step 1: Preparing the Base
First, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and grease and line a 9×13-inch traybake pan — this ensures your cake will come out cleanly and ready for that perfect slice. Starting with softened butter and brown sugar, cream them together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it introduces air, which helps the cake achieve a lovely lightness despite its dense fruit content.
Step 2: Building the Batter
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to keep the mixture smooth and well combined. Then, sift in the all-purpose flour and baking powder, along with the warming cinnamon and nutmeg, and the vibrant zest of one orange. Mix just until everything is incorporated — you want to keep that batter soft and inviting, not overworked.
Step 3: Adding Festive Flavors
Gently fold in the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. If you’re feeling indulgent, stir in the optional brandy or orange juice here; it adds a lovely depth of flavor and keeps the cake moist while it bakes. The fruit and nuts bring beautiful color and texture that really bring this traybake alive.
Step 4: Baking to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool completely in the pan to firm up before dusting with powdered sugar and slicing it into generous squares.
How to Serve Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar is classic and charming, evoking a light snowfall that fits beautifully with the festive theme. If you want to dress it up, a few fresh orange segments or a sprig of rosemary on the plate add a fresh aroma and color contrast that’s just delightful.
Side Dishes
This traybake shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, cream cheese frosting, or even a dollop of mascarpone to balance the spice and sweetness. For a warm touch, a drizzle of spiced caramel sauce can elevate it to something truly spectacular.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake into small squares for a holiday dessert platter alongside cookies, chocolates, and nuts. Wrap individual portions in parchment with a festive ribbon to create charming edible gifts. Or stack slices with layers of whipped cream and fresh berries for a quick trifle-inspired treat that’s sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover traybake keeps wonderfully at room temperature in an airtight container for up to five days. This actually helps the flavors to meld even more, so if you can wait, it tastes even better the next day!
Freezing
If you want to make this ahead for a big gathering, the cake freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-out-of-the-oven coziness, warm slices gently in a low oven for 5 to 7 minutes or pop them in the microwave for about 15 seconds. Just warm enough to bring out the aromas without drying out the cake.
FAQs
Can I substitute the dried fruit?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite dried fruits like cranberries, figs, or dates. Just keep the total quantity roughly the same to maintain the texture balance.
What if I don’t have brandy or orange juice?
No worries at all. You can leave it out altogether, or add a little apple juice or even water for moisture. The cake still tastes fantastic without alcohol.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it might vary slightly.
How long does this cake stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container, the Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake remains fresh and delicious for up to five days at room temperature, or up to a week refrigerated.
Can I add more nuts?
Definitely! If you love that crunchy texture, increase the nuts up to ¾ cup. Just make sure to keep the fruit and nuts balanced so every bite has a little of both.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about sharing a homemade cake filled with festive flavors, and the Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake delivers that in abundance. It’s straightforward enough for bakers of all levels, yet bursting with the cozy, vibrant tastes that make the holiday season so special. Give it a go this year and watch it become a beloved tradition in your celebrations!
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *