Christmas Cake(Julekake)
A traditional Scandinavian Christmas bread packed with dried fruits and warm spices, perfect for holiday celebrations and enjoyed by family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thoroughly mix the dry yeast with 1/3 of the flour and all the other ingredients.
- Heat milk with margarine over low heat until very warm (120° to 130°F).
- Add liquids to dry ingredients and mix well.
- Beat the mixture for 2 minutes at medium speed on an electric mixer.
- Add 1/2 cup of flour, then add eggs and beat on high speed for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the fruit and add additional flour as needed to incorporate.
- Let the dough rise until doubled in size.
- Shape into 3 round loaves and let rise again.
- Bake at 375°F for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or candied orange peel to the dough. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought bread flour instead of all-purpose flour, as it can yield a lighter texture. Make sure to measure your flour carefully, as too much can lead to a dense cake. You can also substitute shortening with unsalted butter for a more traditional taste.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Christmas Cake and serve it with a hot beverage for a delightful treat. It pairs beautifully with Fruit Soup(Serve Chilled) for a festive touch. Consider serving it alongside cream cheese frosting or a dollop of whipped cream. This cake can also be enjoyed as a breakfast treat or as a snack with coffee or tea.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the loaves tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep them fresh. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Cake(Julekake) contains roughly 277 calories, with 7g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 983mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute fresh fruit for dried fruit in this recipe?
It's best to stick with dried fruit for this recipe, as fresh fruit can introduce too much moisture and affect the dough's consistency. If you want to use fresh fruit, consider lightly drying it first or using it in a different recipe, such as Linzer Augen Cookies.
How can I tell when the cake is fully baked?
The cake is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. You can also check with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean. Keep an eye on baking time, as ovens may vary in temperature.
What can I do if my dough doesn't rise?
If your dough doesn't rise, it may be due to expired yeast or insufficient warmth. Ensure your yeast is fresh and that you activated it properly. If the kitchen is cold, find a warm spot or place the dough in the oven with the light on to create a warm environment for rising.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).