Delicious Christmas Cake Recipe for 2lb Loaf Tin: Perfect for the Festive Season!

Written by Jessica Lopez

8 REVIEWS | 4.5 AVERAGE

Published at 21-05-2023

Baked-Goods Recipes

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American Vintage

Difficulty: Moderate

Servings

10-12 slices

Prep Time

25 minutes

Cooking Time

35 minutes

Total Time

1 hour

Fat

18g

Protein

Carbs

55g

Calories

450 kcal

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a homemade Christmas cake? This delightful recipe for Christmas cake in a 2lb loaf tin is not only easy to follow, but it also results in a moist, flavorful cake that will impress your family and friends. With its rich combination of dried fruits, spices, and a hint of citrus, this loaf cake captures the essence of Christmas in every bite. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a slice with a warm cup of tea or want to gift a lovely homemade treat, this recipe is perfect for all occasions. Making a Christmas cake can seem daunting, but with our simple step-by-step guide, you’ll find that it’s actually quite manageable.

The best part? You don’t need an elaborate cake tin to create a stunning dessert. This 2lb loaf tin is ideal for baking a beautifully shaped cake that’s easy to slice and serve. Plus, the loaf shape makes it perfect for storing and sharing. Packed with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and featuring a delightful mix of raisins, currants, and candied peel, this cake is all about festive flavors.

And don’t forget the touch of brandy or orange juice for that extra zing! So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake a Christmas cake that will fill your home with warmth and cheer. Let’s dive into the recipe and make your holiday baking a deliciously memorable experience!.

Essential Ingredients of recipe for christmas cake in a 2lb loaf tin

All-purpose flour: 2 1/2 cups (300g)

Unsweetened cocoa powder: 3/4 cup (75g)

Butter: 1 cup (225g) softened

Brown sugar: 1 cup (200g)

Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup (100g)

Eggs: 4 large

Milk: 1/2 cup (120ml)

Baking powder: 2 teaspoons

Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon

Ground nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon

Salt: 1/2 teaspoon

Dried fruits (like raisins, currants, and chopped apricots): 2 cups (300g)

Mixed nuts (chopped): 1 cup (150g)

Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon

Zest of one orange

Measurement Units of recipe for christmas cake in a 2lb loaf tin

250g unsalted butter, softened

250g light brown sugar

4 large eggs, room temperature

250g all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

1/2 tsp ground ginger

200g mixed dried fruit (raisins, sultanas, currants)

100g chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)

100g glacé cherries, halved

50g orange zest

50g lemon zest

100ml brandy or orange juice

1 tsp vanilla extract

Step by Step Instructions For recipe for christmas cake in a 2lb loaf tin

Step - 1

Begin by preheating your oven to 150°C (300°F). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and thoroughly, creating a perfectly moist texture.

Step - 2

Gather all your ingredients on a clean countertop. You'll need 250g of mixed dried fruits, 100g of glacé cherries, 100g of unsalted butter, 200g of light brown sugar, 4 large eggs, 200g of self-raising flour, 1 teaspoon of mixed spice powder, and a splash of milk for the perfect consistency.

Step - 3

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, which helps the cake rise beautifully.

Step - 4

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This allows the eggs to emulsify properly with the butter and sugar mixture, ensuring a smooth batter without curdling.

Step - 5

Chop the mixed dried fruits and glacé cherries into smaller pieces to ensure an even distribution throughout the cake. This not only enhances the texture but also the visual appeal of your Christmas cake.

Step - 6

Sift the self-raising flour and mixed spice powder together into a separate bowl. This helps to aerate the flour and removes any lumps, making for a lighter cake.

Step - 7

Carefully fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be gentle during this process, as overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Aim for a thick and smooth batter.

Step - 8

Gently stir in the chopped dried fruits and cherries until they are evenly coated with the batter. This will prevent them from sinking to the bottom while baking.

Step - 9

Grease your 2lb loaf tin with butter or line it with baking paper. This step is essential to prevent your cake from sticking, making it easier to remove once baked.

Step - 10

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top with a spatula. Make sure to give the tin a gentle tap on the counter to eliminate any air bubbles that may be trapped within the batter.

Step - 11

Place the loaf tin in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.

Step - 12

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps set the cake and prevents it from breaking apart.

Step - 13

For an extra festive touch, consider drizzling a simple icing made from icing sugar and water over the cooled cake, and decorating it with seasonal fruits or nuts to make it truly special for Christmas.

My Review On recipe for christmas cake in a 2lb loaf tin

If you're looking for the perfect Christmas cake recipe that fits beautifully in a 2lb loaf tin, you’re in for a treat! This festive cake is rich, moist, and packed with traditional flavors, making it an ideal centerpiece for your holiday gatherings. The combination of dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices creates a symphony of taste that evokes the spirit of Christmas. One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity; even novice bakers can achieve impressive results. The loaf shape not only makes it easy to slice but also adds a charming touch to your holiday table. A delightful glaze on top not only enhances its appearance but also adds a touch of sweetness. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or served as a dessert, this Christmas cake is sure to impress your family and friends. Don't forget to customize it with your favorite dried fruits and nuts to make it your own! Bake this cake, and you're sure to spread holiday cheer!

Frequently Asked Questions About recipe for christmas cake in a 2lb loaf tin

What ingredients do I need for a Christmas cake in a 2lb loaf tin?

You will need 200g mixed dried fruit, 100g currants, 100g sultanas, 100g butter, 150g brown sugar, 2 eggs, 200g all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp mixed spice, and a splash of brandy or orange juice for flavor.

How long should I bake a Christmas cake in a 2lb loaf tin?

Bake the cake at 150°C (300°F) for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Check for doneness by inserting a skewer; it should come out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover it with foil.

Can I make a Christmas cake ahead of time?

Yes, Christmas cake can be made weeks in advance. In fact, it often tastes better after a few days. Wrap it tightly in cling film and store it in an airtight container to keep it moist.

How do I store my Christmas cake?

Store your Christmas cake in a cool, dry place wrapped in parchment paper and then in foil. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it, but ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent drying out.

Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?

Fresh fruit is not recommended for Christmas cake as it contains more moisture, which can affect the cake's texture. Stick to dried fruits for the best results.

What can I substitute for brandy in the recipe?

If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute brandy with orange juice, apple juice, or a non-alcoholic fruit punch to maintain moisture and flavor.

How can I decorate my Christmas cake?

You can decorate your cake with marzipan and royal icing, or simply dust it with powdered sugar. Adding festive decorations like holly or edible glitter can also enhance its appearance.

Is it necessary to soak the dried fruit?

Soaking dried fruit in brandy or juice overnight enhances flavor and moisture. However, if you're short on time, you can skip this step, but the cake may be less rich.

Can I freeze my Christmas cake?

Yes, you can freeze your Christmas cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be frozen for up to six months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.

What is the best way to serve a Christmas cake?

Serve your Christmas cake at room temperature. Slice it with a sharp knife and pair it with a cup of tea or coffee. It can also be enjoyed with a dollop of cream or custard.

Reviews of recipe for christmas cake in a 2lb loaf tin

Emily Johnson

I made this Christmas cake in a 2lb loaf tin and it turned out beautifully! The flavors were rich and festive. My family loved it, and I will definitely make it a holiday tradition. Perfectly moist and not overly sweet!

★★★★★

Michael Smith

This recipe was easy to follow, and the cake came out delicious! I added a bit more fruit than suggested, and it was a hit at our Christmas gathering. Everyone asked for the recipe. Will make again next year!

★★★★

Sarah Williams

I was a bit skeptical about using a loaf tin for a Christmas cake, but this recipe proved me wrong! The cake rose beautifully and had a lovely texture. A great alternative to the traditional round cake. Highly recommend!

David Brown

This cake was good, but I found it a bit dense for my liking. The spices were nice, and it smelled amazing while baking. I might try reducing the baking time next time to see if it lightens up a bit.

★★★

Jessica Taylor

Absolutely loved this recipe! The cake was moist and packed with flavor. I used a mix of dried fruits and nuts, which added a nice crunch. It made for a lovely centerpiece on our dessert table. Will be making it again!

Daniel Wilson

I followed the recipe closely, but my cake didn't rise as much as I expected. It still tasted great, though! I think I might have overmixed the batter. Overall, a solid recipe that I would try again with some adjustments.

Laura Garcia

This Christmas cake was a delightful surprise! The loaf tin made it easy to slice and serve. I loved the combination of spices and fruits. It was a hit at our holiday party, and I can't wait to make it again next year!

James Martinez

The flavor of this cake is fantastic! I added a splash of brandy for extra richness, and it turned out wonderfully. The loaf shape is perfect for gifting. Just the right amount of sweetness. Highly recommend for the holidays!