Easy Christmas Cake No Nuts

Christmas is a time for festive joy and delicious treats. One classic holiday dessert that never goes out of style is Christmas cake. However, many traditional Christmas cake recipes include nuts, which can be a concern for those with allergies or if you’re simply not a fan of nuts in your desserts. Fear not – here’s a wonderful recipe for an Easy Christmas Cake without nuts that still captures all the rich flavors and cozy aromas of the season.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 eggs
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup dried fruit mix (such as raisins, cranberries, and cherries)
– 1/2 cup candied citrus peel
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. You can also line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the dried fruit mix, candied citrus peel, and orange juice. Let them soak while you prepare the rest of the cake batter. This will help the fruits plump up and infuse the cake with a rich fruity flavor.

3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This will ensure a smooth and airy texture in your cake.

5. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract if using. These extracts will add depth and warmth to the flavor profile of the cake.

6. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sifting the dry ingredients will help create a tender crumb in the cake.

7. Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix the batter.

8. Fold in the soaked dried fruit mixture, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

9. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

11. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

12. Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a festive finish.

This Easy Christmas Cake No Nuts recipe is a wonderful alternative for those looking for a nut-free holiday dessert that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The combination of dried fruits, warm spices, and citrus notes makes this cake a delightful treat that is perfect for sharing with loved ones or giving as a thoughtful homemade gift. Enjoy the cozy aromas wafting from your kitchen as you bake up this festive delight. Happy baking and happy holidays!