Christmas Fruit Pound Cake Recipe
Welcome to this delightful Christmas Fruit Pound Cake recipe! If you’re looking to impress your family and friends during the festive season, you’ve come to the right place. This moist and flavorful cake is a holiday favorite enjoyed by families around the world. In this article, we’ll take you through the step-by-step process of creating this delectable treat. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the baking process, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need for this Christmas Fruit Pound Cake:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Pistachios | 10g |
Dried Apricots | 40g |
Red Cherries | 40g |
Dried Blueberries | 20g |
Cointreau (or Rum) | 10g |
Cake Flour | 110g |
Butter | 85g |
Milk | 40g |
Sugar | 60g |
Eggs | 2pcs (55g+-/ea) |
Salt | 1.5g |
Baking Powder | 1.5g |
Vanilla Extract | 1/2 tsp |
Mold Size: φ18×9×6cm
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s start making our Christmas Fruit Pound Cake:
Step 1: Prepare the Dried Fruits
- Begin by cutting the dried apricots, red cherries, and dried blueberries into small pieces.
- Place these dried fruits in a bowl and pour in the Cointreau (or rum). Allow them to soak for at least 10 minutes to absorb the rich flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a mixing bowl, add the softened butter and sugar. Beat them together until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth. Crack the eggs into the mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, sift the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter and egg mixture while mixing.
- Pour in the milk and add the vanilla extract. Continue to mix until the batter is well combined.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
- Gently fold the wine-soaked dried fruits into the cake batter. Ensure they are evenly distributed for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease your cake mold.
- Pour the cake batter into the mold, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Enjoy!
- Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the mold for about 10 minutes.
- Afterward, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve your Christmas Fruit Pound Cake, savoring the delightful aromas of butter, sweet and sour dried fruits, and a hint of wine. It’s the perfect treat for holiday gatherings!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use rum instead of Cointreau for soaking the dried fruits?
Absolutely! While Cointreau adds a unique flavor, rum is a fantastic alternative that works just as well in this recipe. Feel free to choose the one that suits your taste.
Can I substitute any of the dried fruits?
Certainly! You can customize this cake by using your favorite dried fruits or nuts. Just ensure the total quantity remains consistent.
How do I store the Christmas Fruit Pound Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also refrigerate it for longer shelf life.
Can I make this cake in advance for the holidays?
Yes, you can! This cake actually gets better with time as the flavors meld together. So, preparing it a day or two before your holiday gathering is a great idea.
What can I serve with this cake?
This Christmas Fruit Pound Cake is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the experience with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe typically yields 8-10 servings, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones during the holiday season.
Congratulations! You’ve now mastered the art of making a scrumptious Christmas Fruit Pound Cake that’s sure to be the highlight of your holiday celebrations. Whether you’re baking it as a gift or indulging in it with friends and family, this cake is a true delight. So, go ahead and spread the joy of the season with this mouthwatering treat. Happy baking!