Easy Christmas Cake Traybake

Discover a festive favorite with this Easy Christmas Cake Traybake recipe—simple, quick, and bursting with holiday flavors! This delightful traybake combines rich spices, juicy dried fruits, and a moist texture that’s perfect for sharing during the holiday season. Whether you’re baking for family gatherings, Christmas parties, or cozy nights by the fire, this cake brings joyful cheer with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: Perfect for busy holiday schedules, this recipe comes together without fuss, saving you precious time.
• Full of Festive Flavors: Warm spices and dried fruits create that classic Christmas taste everyone adores.
• Perfect for Sharing: Baked in a tray, it’s easy to cut into generous squares for friends and family.
• Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to suit dietary needs or ingredient availability.
• Long-Lasting Moistness: This traybake stays tender and scrumptious for days, making it ideal for gifting or prepping in advance.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple yet essential ingredients work harmoniously to bring the Easy Christmas Cake Traybake to life, providing rich flavor, perfect texture, and beautiful festive colors.

• Dried Mixed Fruit: Raisins, sultanas, and chopped apricots add natural sweetness and chewy texture.
• Butter: Provides richness and keeps the cake moist and tender.
• Brown Sugar: Adds depth and molasses flavor, enhancing the festive vibe.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together while contributing to the cake’s light structure.
• Self-Raising Flour: Creates a soft crumb without the need for extra baking powder.
• Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves): Classic warming spices that evoke the spirit of Christmas in every bite.
• Orange Zest: Brightens and balances the deep fruity flavors with fresh citrus notes.
• Chopped Nuts (Optional): Adds a lovely crunch and additional festive flair.

Variations for Easy Christmas Cake Traybake

Feel free to make this recipe your own by experimenting with flavors and ingredients that match your taste buds or dietary preferences. The traybake is incredibly forgiving and versatile.

• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend for an allergy-friendly treat.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and a flaxseed egg replacement to enjoy a vegan-friendly festive cake.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to deepen the traditional warm spice profile.
• Chocolate Twist: Toss in dark chocolate chips for an indulgent holiday surprise.
• Nut-Free Version: Simply omit the nuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a crunchy alternative.

How to Make Easy Christmas Cake Traybake

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F) and greasing a rectangular baking tray with butter or lining it with parchment paper. Measure out all your ingredients carefully, so everything is ready to go.

Step 2: Soften the Butter and Mix with Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with the brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key for creating a tender crumb and ensuring the sugar is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs One at a Time

Add the eggs gradually, beating well after each addition to maintain an airy batter that will rise beautifully while baking.

Step 4: Add Flour and Spices

Sift the self-raising flour together with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, then gently fold into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix to keep your traybake light and soft.

Step 5: Fold in Dried Fruit, Nuts, and Orange Zest

Stir in the dried fruits, chopped nuts, and fresh orange zest evenly throughout the batter to ensure every slice bursts with festive flavors.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Pour the batter into your prepared tray and level the surface with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely in the tray before slicing.

Pro Tips for Making Easy Christmas Cake Traybake

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Even Layer: Spread the batter evenly in the tray to guarantee uniform baking and avoids burnt edges.
• Use Quality Dried Fruits: Opt for the best quality for maximum flavor and moistness.
• Don’t Overmix: Fold ingredients gently to keep the cake light instead of dense.
• Check Early: Oven temperatures vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested time.

How to Serve Easy Christmas Cake Traybake

Garnishes

Sprinkle with powdered sugar or decorate with festive sprigs of holly or rosemary for an extra seasonal touch that impresses guests.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream, brandy butter, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the warm spices beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut into bite-sized squares and arrange on a festive platter adorned with fresh cranberries or edible gold dust to create a celebratory treat table centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Easy Christmas Cake Traybake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain moisture and freshness.

Freezing

Wrap slices tightly in cling film and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds to bring back moistness and warmth.

FAQs

Can I use fresh fruit instead of dried fruit?

Fresh fruit can make the traybake too moist and affect baking time and texture; it’s best to stick to dried fruits for this recipe.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! The Easy Christmas Cake Traybake is straightforward and perfect for anyone new to baking festive treats.

Can I make this traybake ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after resting, as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a few days before your celebrations.

What makes this cake festive compared to regular traybakes?

The combination of traditional Christmas spices, dried fruits, and orange zest really highlights the seasonal flavors distinguished in this recipe.

How do I keep the traybake moist for longer?

Store it in an airtight container and consider wrapping it with cling film, or add a slice of apple inside the container to help maintain moisture.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Christmas Cake Traybake is a joyful, approachable way to bring classic festive flavors to your holiday table without stress. Whether you enjoy it with loved ones or gift it as a homemade treasure, this recipe is sure to spread holiday happiness one delicious slice at a time. Give it a try and watch it become your new Christmas tradition!

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