A Classic Christmas Plum Cake: A timeless treat for the festive season
The aroma of a freshly baked plum cake wafting through the house is a quintessential Christmas memory.
This classic cake, rich with dried fruits and spices, is a delightful indulgence. Here's a simple recipe to bring this festive cheer to your home:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, cherries, candied peel)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon mixed spice powder (cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg)
Instructions:
- Prep the fruits: Soak the mixed dried fruits in rum or brandy overnight.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs: Gradually beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Alternate wet and dry ingredients: Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Add flavorings and fruits: Stir in the vanilla extract, mixed spice powder, soaked dried fruits, and chopped nuts.
- Bake: Pour the batter into a greased and lined loaf pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 1-1.5 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or glaze as desired.
This classic plum cake is a perfect treat to share with loved ones during the festive season. Enjoy!
