Gather around, dear readers, for a delightful creation straight from the heart of Italy. If you’re looking to infuse your holiday season with a touch of Italian flair, then this Nigella Italian Christmas Cake recipe is just the thing you need. Bursting with rich flavors and festive aromas, this cake will be the showstopper at your holiday gatherings. Let’s dive right in and learn how to whip up this delicious treat!
Recipe: Nigella Italian Christmas Cake
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup of almond flour
– 1 teaspoon of baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup of Amaretto liqueur
– 1/4 cup of whole milk
– 1/4 cup of chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup of dried cranberries
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Dust the pan with flour and set it aside.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. Set this dry mixture aside.
3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs to the butter mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Stir in the Amaretto liqueur and milk until fully incorporated into the batter.
6. Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
7. Gently fold in the chopped almonds and dried cranberries until evenly distributed in the batter.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly.
9. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
12. Slice and serve your Nigella Italian Christmas Cake, and watch as your guests marvel at the delightful flavors and textures.
Enjoy this delectable Nigella Italian Christmas Cake with a steaming cup of coffee or a warm mug of mulled wine for the perfect holiday indulgence. This cake also makes a lovely homemade gift for friends and family, spreading joy and cheer with every bite. Embrace the warmth and spirit of an Italian Christmas with this delightful recipe that will surely become a treasured tradition in your festive celebrations. Happy baking!
