As the air grows crisp and the scent of pine fills my home, there’s an undeniable warmth that comes from holiday baking. When I decided to whip up my Christmas Cake Tray Bake, I was eager for a simple yet festive treat that would evoke memories of family gatherings and holiday cheer. This delightful recipe captures the essence of the season with its rich spices and colorful dried fruits, making it the perfect addition to any holiday spread.
One bite of this cake, with its fluffy texture and nutty crunch, transports me straight to cozy evenings spent with loved ones, laughing and sharing stories over a cup of tea. You won’t believe how effortlessly you can create this stunning dessert in mere minutes! Whether you’re looking to impress friends at a potluck or simply want to indulge in some homemade goodness, this Christmas Cake Tray Bake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, let’s gather those ingredients and sprinkle a little holiday magic into our kitchens!
Why You'll Love This Christmas Cake Tray Bake
- This Christmas Cake Tray Bake is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a festive treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The warm blend of spices and sweet dried fruits creates an irresistible flavor profile that’s perfect for the holiday season.
- Its versatility means you can customize it with your favorite nuts or toppings, making it unique every time you bake.
- With its beautiful presentation, this cake is sure to impress your guests and elevate your holiday dessert table.
Christmas Cake Tray Bake Ingredients
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – 190g gives the cake structure while remaining light.
- Baking powder – 1 ½ teaspoons ensures your cake rises beautifully.
- Ground cinnamon – ½ teaspoon adds a warm, aromatic flavor that’s a holiday classic.
- Ground nutmeg – ½ teaspoon enhances the spiced flavor profile of this Christmas Cake Tray Bake.
- Ground ginger – ¼ teaspoon brings a subtle zing that pairs well with the other spices.
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon balances the sweetness for a well-rounded taste.
- Unsalted butter – 170g, softened, provides richness and moisture to the cake.
- Granulated sugar – 150g sweetens the cake and creates that irresistible fluffy texture.
- Large eggs – 2 help bind the ingredients together and give the cake its structure.
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon adds depth and enhances the overall flavor.
- Mixed dried fruit – 150g (raisins, currants, sultanas) contributes sweetness and festive color.
- Chopped mixed nuts – 75g (such as walnuts or almonds) adds a delightful crunch and texture.
- Milk – 60ml keeps the batter moist and helps blend the dry and wet ingredients evenly.
Optional Garnishes
- Glacé cherries – A gorgeous touch for decoration that adds a festive flair.
- Powdered sugar – Dusting for a sweet finish that makes your cake extra special.
How to Make Christmas Cake Tray Bake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets the stage for perfectly baked goodness! Line a 9×13-inch baking tray with parchment paper or grease it with butter and flour to prevent sticking.
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Sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt in a medium bowl. This step ensures that your dry ingredients are well combined, resulting in a smooth batter.
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Cream together the softened butter and sugar in a large bowl using a hand mixer or whisk until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This is where the magic of sweetness begins!
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Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to create a rich flavor base that will fill your kitchen with warmth.
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Mix the dry ingredients gradually into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Only mix until just combined—this keeps your cake light and fluffy, so resist the urge to overmix!
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Fold in the mixed dried fruit and chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter for delightful bursts of flavor and texture in every bite.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and spread it evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!
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Cool the cake in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, decorate with glacé cherries or dust with powdered sugar for a festive touch that looks as good as it tastes!
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Slice the cooled cake into squares or rectangles and serve! It’s just begging to be shared with loved ones during the holiday season.
Optional: Add a sprinkle of festive cinnamon on top for an extra seasonal touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cake Tray Bake
Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps retain moisture and keeps the flavors intact.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer storage option, keep the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Note that refrigeration may slightly alter the texture.
Freezer: For freezing, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: To warm up any leftovers, place slices in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will revive its delightful flavor and make it feel freshly baked again.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Cake Tray Bake slices are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, ensuring all those festive flavors meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and pour the batter into the prepared tray—bake as directed and enjoy a freshly baked treat that’s just as delicious as if you made it the same day. This way, you can impress your guests with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Christmas Cake Tray Bake?
Imagine cozying up by the fireplace with a delightful slice of cake and these perfect companions that enhance its festive charm.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop adds a luscious creaminess that beautifully contrasts the spiced cake, making each bite memorable.
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Mulled Wine: This warm, spiced beverage elevates the seasonal flavors, creating a comforting atmosphere perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic blend of spices complements the cake’s rich flavors, bringing an inviting warmth to cold winter days.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, citrusy fruits add a refreshing zing to balance the sweetness of the cake, making each bite more delightful.
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Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of airy whipped cream enhances the cake’s texture and brings a lightness that’s absolutely divine.
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Bourbon Bread Pudding: Serve this alongside for a decadent twist; the custardy bread pudding echoes the cake’s warmth, inviting indulgence.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate over the cake turns each slice into a lavish experience, perfect for chocolate lovers.
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Hot Chocolate: Rich and creamy, this drink pairs delightfully with the cake, making any moment feel like a festive celebration.
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Ginger Snap Cookies: Their spiced crunch mirrors the holiday flavors, offering a delightful contrast to the cake’s soft and moist texture.
Christmas Cake Tray Bake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you explore these exciting alternatives to personalize your festive treat.
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a suitable option that everyone can enjoy.
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Nut-Free: Omit the mixed nuts and replace them with a little extra dried fruit or seeds for added texture without the allergens.
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Fruit Medley: Swap the mixed dried fruit for your favorite seasonal fruits like cranberries or chopped apricots for a fresh twist on flavor.
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Spiced Twist: Add ½ teaspoon of cardamom or allspice to the dry ingredients for an extra layer of warmth that’ll fill your home with holiday cheer.
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Chocolate Lovers: Mix in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for pockets of melty chocolate in each bite. Who can resist chocolate during the holidays?
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Citrus Zest: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the batter for a bright, refreshing note that complements the spices perfectly.
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Lower Sugar: Lighten the sweetness by reducing the granulated sugar to ½ cup or substituting it with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
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Vegan Alternative: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based milk for a completely vegan delight.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making the Christmas Cake Tray Bake, be sure to sift your dry ingredients to eliminate lumps and ensure an even texture.
- A common mistake is overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients; mix just until combined for a light cake.
- Incorporating room temperature eggs will help create a smoother batter, enhancing the cake’s texture and rise.
- For the best results, check your cake at the 25-minute mark with a toothpick to avoid overbaking and keep it moist.
Christmas Cake Tray Bake Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select dried fruit for my Christmas Cake Tray Bake?
Absolutely! When choosing dried fruit, look for vibrant colors and plump textures. Avoid packages with dark spots or hard pieces, which can indicate age or poor quality. I often opt for a mix of raisins, currants, and sultanas for a festive touch, but feel free to customize based on your preferences!
How should I store my Christmas Cake Tray Bake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember, refrigeration can make the cake a bit denser, but the flavor remains delightful!
Can I freeze my Christmas Cake Tray Bake?
Certainly! After the cake has completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge for a perfect treat!
What should I do if my cake is too dry?
If you find that your cake turned out a bit dry, don’t worry! This can happen from overbaking or not enough moisture. To salvage it, try making a simple syrup by dissolving equal parts sugar and water and brush it onto the slices. Adding a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top can also add that extra moisture!
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Very! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that has a 1:1 ratio. Add a little extra moisture, like an additional splash of milk, as gluten-free flours can absorb more liquid. Always check for certified gluten-free products for added peace of mind, especially if allergies are a concern.
Can dogs eat cake?
While it’s tempting to share, it’s best to avoid giving your furry friends any cake containing ingredients like chocolate or raisins, which are toxic to dogs. Instead, save a small portion of plain unsweetened cake for them—just keep it simple, with no added sugar or spices!
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking tray
- Mixing bowls
- hand mixer or whisk
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 190 g all-purpose flour
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 0.25 teaspoon ground ginger
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 170 g unsalted butter softened
- 150 g granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 150 g mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas)
- 75 g chopped mixed nuts (such as walnuts or almonds)
- 60 ml milk
Optional Garnishes
- glacé cherries for decoration
- powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
How to Make Christmas Cake Tray Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking tray with parchment paper or grease it with butter and flour.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Cream together the softened butter and sugar in a large bowl using a hand mixer or whisk until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix the dry ingredients gradually into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Only mix until just combined.
- Fold in the mixed dried fruit and chopped nuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray and spread it evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice the cooled cake into squares or rectangles and serve.
