In Sweden, the holiday season is not complete without the fragrant aroma of freshly baked treats filling the kitchen. One classic Swedish Christmas baking recipe that never fails to enchant both young and old is the delightful Lingonfruktkaka, also known as Lingonberry Fruitcake. This delicious dessert perfectly captures the essence of the season with its moist texture and the irresistible combination of tangy lingonberries and sweet cake. Follow along as we guide you through the steps to create this festive treat that will surely become a favorite at your holiday gatherings.
**Lingonfruktkaka Lingonberry Fruitcake**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ tsp baking powder
– ½ tsp salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– ½ cup full-fat sour cream
– 1 cup fresh or frozen lingonberries
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a round cake pan (9-inch recommended) with butter and lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done using a handheld electric mixer or a stand mixer with the paddle attachment.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
6. Gently fold in the lingonberries with a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with the back of a spoon.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Before serving, dust the top of the Lingonfruktkaka with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
Indulge in a slice of this Swedish Lingonberry Fruitcake with a warm cup of coffee or spicy mulled wine for a cozy and comforting holiday treat. The burst of tangy lingonberries against the moist cake will have your guests reaching for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply looking to add a touch of Scandinavian charm to your home this holiday season, this delightful dessert is sure to impress. Enjoy the tradition and warmth of Swedish Christmas baking with this timeless Lingonfruktkaka recipe that will fill your home with the spirit of the season.