Christmas Plum Cake: A Perfect Holiday Treat

Christmas is a time for family, friends, and, of course, delicious food! Among the many treats during the holiday season, the Christmas Plum Cake holds a special place. This rich, spiced fruit cake, is also known as the Christmas fruit cake.

Plum Cake is packed with dried fruits, nuts, and warming spices, making it the perfect festive dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this Christmas Plum Cake recipe will definitely become a cherished holiday tradition you’d follow.

The History of Christmas Plum Cake

The tradition of baking a rich fruit cake during the Christmas season dates back centuries. While the cake itself has evolved over time, its roots can be traced to ancient Rome. During the Victorian era in England, the fruitcake gained popularity as a Christmas dessert, and it soon spread to many parts of the world.

The term “plum cake” is a bit misleading, as the cake does not actually contain plums. Instead, the word “plum” refers to dried fruits like raisins, currants, and sultanas, which are the key ingredients. Over the years, the cake has become a symbol of celebration, often enjoyed during Christmas parties.

A Classic Christmas Plum Cake

To make a traditional Christmas Plum Cake, you’ll need a combination of dried fruits, nuts, spices, and a few essential baking ingredients.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, sultanas, and chopped dried apricots)
• 1/2 cup glace cherries, chopped
• 1/2 cup orange juice (or apple juice)
• 1/2 cup dark rum (for soaking the fruit, optional but recommended)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup chopped mixed nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp honey (for added moisture and sweetness)
• 1/4 cup prunes, chopped (optional)
• 1/2 tsp ground allspice (optional)
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves (optional)

For the Cake Base:

• A round or square cake pan (about 9 inches)
• Baking parchment paper

Also read: Eggless Christmas Cake Recipe

How to Make the Christmas Plum Cake

• Soak your dried fruits in a bowl with orange juice and rum (if using).
• Let them soak for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best results.
• If you’re not using alcohol, apple juice is a great non-alcoholic alternative.
• Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
• Line your cake pan with baking parchment paper, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides of the pan.
• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next.
• Add the vanilla extract and honey.
• In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, and spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves).
• Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently until just combined. (Avoid over-mixing, as this could result in a dense cake.)
• Fold the soaked dried fruits, nuts, and any remaining liquid from the soaking into the batter.
• Ensure that the fruit and nuts are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
• Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
• Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack.

Also read: Christmas Flowers That Say Merry Christmas

Tips for the Perfect Christmas Plum Cake

• Age the Cake: Many people recommend aging the Christmas plum cake for a few days or even weeks before serving. This helps the flavors meld and gives the cake a moist, flavorful texture.
• Alcohol-Free Version: If you prefer not to use alcohol, simply soak the dried fruits in apple juice, or use a non-alcoholic rum extract for a similar depth of flavor.
• Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. Some people like to add a little ground ginger or cardamom for an extra kick.

The Christmas Plum Cake can be served as-is or with a light dusting of powdered sugar. It’s perfect on its own with a cup of tea or coffee or paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent treat.

Plum Cake Ingredients Now Available At Milkbasket

Baking a Christmas Plum Cake is not just about making a delicious dessert; it’s about creating memories and celebrating the festive season with loved ones. With this simple recipe, share the joy of homemade holiday baking with family and friends. 

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Whether you serve the plum cake at your Christmas dinner table or gift it to someone special, it becomes a favorite part of your holiday traditions. 

Happy baking and Merry Christmas!