The holidays are all about joy, family gatherings, and creating memories you’ll treasure forever. What better way to celebrate than with a Christmas Cake – a festive masterpiece bursting with holiday flavors and joy? This beautiful cake combines rich spices, creamy frosting, and decorative flair to capture the magic of the season. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply creating a stunning dessert centerpiece, this recipe delivers flavor, charm, and plenty of holiday cheer.
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cake
A good Christmas cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a tradition and a work of art. Here’s why this recipe will be your go-to holiday favorite:
- Perfectly spiced: Warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger make it the ultimate winter treat.
- Visually stunning: Frosting swirls, sugar pearls, and festive decorations add a wow factor.
- Rich and moist: With buttermilk and buttery frosting, this cake stays soft and delicious.
- Customizable: You can change up the decorations or tweak the spices to your liking.
Get ready to impress your loved ones with a cake that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.
Ingredients for Christmas Cake
Gather these ingredients for the cake, frosting, and decorations. The table below makes it easy to organize your baking essentials.
Cake Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 1/2 cups |
| Baking powder | 2 1/2 tsp |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/2 tsp |
| Ground ginger | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Granulated sugar | 1 1/2 cups |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 3 cups (divided) |
| Buttermilk | 1 cup |
| Eggs (large) | 4 |
| Vanilla extract | 3 tsp |
Frosting and Decoration Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | 6 cups |
| Heavy cream or milk | 2 tbsp |
| Edible gold glitter or sprinkles | For decoration |
| Red sugar pearls | For decoration |
| Green fondant or gum paste | For decoration |
| Meringue cookies or frosting swirls | For decoration |
| Powdered sugar (for dusting) | As needed |
Tools You’ll Need
To make this Christmas cake, gather the following tools to ensure a smooth baking process:
- Electric mixer or stand mixer
- Large mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 2 x 8-inch round cake pans
- Parchment paper for lining
- Spatula for spreading frosting
- Rolling pin (for fondant decorations)
- Piping bags and tips (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Christmas Cake
Follow these easy steps to bake, frost, and decorate the perfect Christmas cake.
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease two 8-inch round cake pans with butter and line them with parchment paper.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Set this dry mixture aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In another bowl, beat 2 cups of softened butter using an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy.
- Gradually add 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar and mix until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
Step 4: Add Eggs and Buttermilk
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Pour in 3 tsp vanilla extract for a rich, aromatic flavor.
- Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and 1 cup buttermilk, mixing until the batter is smooth. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Smooth the tops with a spatula and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Frosting
- Beat the remaining 1 cup softened butter until smooth.
- Gradually add 6 cups powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed.
- Pour in 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk to achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Step 7: Assemble and Frost the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread an even layer of frosting over the top.
- Add the second cake layer and cover the entire cake with a thin crumb coat of frosting. Refrigerate for 20 minutes.
- Spread the remaining frosting evenly over the cake, smoothing it with a spatula.
Step 8: Decorate Your Christmas Cake
- Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
- Roll out the green fondant and cut festive shapes like holly leaves or stars.
- Decorate with red sugar pearls for a pop of color.
- Add edible gold glitter or sprinkles to give your cake a magical holiday glow.
- Top with meringue cookies or piped frosting swirls for the final festive touch.
Tips for the Perfect Christmas Cake
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for the best results.
- Chill before decorating: Chilling the cake after applying a crumb coat helps the final frosting layer go on smoothly.
- Get creative: Add gold leaf, edible flowers, or even tiny ornaments for extra holiday flair.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450–500 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 60g |
| Protein | 4–5g |
| Fat | 20–25g |
| Sugar | 45g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on serving size and toppings.
FAQs About Christmas Cake
1. Can I make the Christmas cake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the cake layers a day or two in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Frost and decorate just before serving.
2. How do I store leftover Christmas cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely! Wrap unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
4. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a buttermilk substitute by combining 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 10 minutes before using.
5. Can I use store-bought frosting?
Yes, but homemade frosting gives the best flavor and texture for this special cake.
6. How can I make this cake gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Make Your Holidays Magical with This Christmas Cake
The Christmas Cake – a festive masterpiece bursting with holiday flavors and joy – is the perfect dessert to bring your family and friends together this holiday season. With its warm spices, creamy frosting, and stunning decorations, this cake will steal the show at any gathering.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and create a dessert that not only looks amazing but tastes heavenly too. Happy baking, and happy holidays!
Print
Christmas Cake – A Festive Masterpiece Bursting with Holiday Flavors and Joy!
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12–14
Description
This Christmas Cake – A Festive Masterpiece Bursting with Holiday Flavors and Joy! combines warm winter spices, a buttery soft crumb, and smooth frosting. With a dusting of powdered sugar and festive decorations, it’s the ultimate showstopper for your holiday gatherings. Perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 cups unsalted butter, softened (divided use)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 4 large eggs
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Frosting and Decoration:
- 6 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- Red sugar pearls (for decoration)
- Edible gold glitter or sprinkles
- Green fondant or gum paste (for leaves and shapes)
- Meringue cookies or frosting swirls
- Additional powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Oven and Cake Pans:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease two 8-inch round cake pans and line them with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a separate bowl, beat 2 cups of softened butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar and beat until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
4. Add the Eggs and Wet Ingredients:
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredient mixture and buttermilk in portions. Mix until smooth and well-combined, but do not overmix.
5. Bake the Cakes:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Frosting:
- Beat the remaining 1 cup of softened butter until smooth.
- Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, on low speed.
- Add the heavy cream or milk and beat until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
7. Frost the Cake:
- Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a layer of frosting evenly on top.
- Add the second cake layer and cover the entire cake with a crumb coat (a thin layer of frosting). Refrigerate for 20 minutes to set.
- Spread the remaining frosting evenly over the cake, smoothing it with a spatula.
8. Decorate the Cake:
- Dust the cake with powdered sugar to create a snowy effect.
- Use green fondant to cut out festive shapes like holly leaves or stars.
- Place red sugar pearls on the cake for a pop of color.
- Sprinkle edible gold glitter for a magical finishing touch.
- Add meringue cookies or frosting swirls to complete the festive look.
Notes
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: The unfrosted cake layers can be wrapped and frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw before frosting.
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Make Ahead: Bake the cake layers a day ahead and frost just before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday / Christmas