Are you looking to create a show-stopping dessert for your upcoming holiday gatherings? This Christmas Cake Iced recipe is sure to impress your guests with its festive appearance and delightful flavors. With a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, this cake is a true celebration of the holiday season. Get ready to embrace the spirit of Christmas with this delectable treat that will become a staple in your festive repertoire.
**Christmas Cake Iced**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup dried cranberries
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
6. Fold in the chopped pecans, raisins, and dried cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Icing:**
1. Once the cake has cooled, prepare the icing by mixing 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk or cream until smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar or liquid as needed.
2. Drizzle the icing over the cooled cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a beautiful effect.
3. For an extra festive touch, garnish the top of the cake with additional chopped pecans and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
This Christmas Cake Iced recipe is a delightful addition to any holiday dessert table. Its warm spices and rich flavors will evoke memories of cozy gatherings and joyful celebrations. Whether you serve it at a family dinner or share it with friends at a holiday party, this cake is sure to be a hit. Embrace the magic of the season with each bite of this deliciously festive treat. Enjoy and happy baking!
