Christmas Keeping Cake
A rich, spiced fruitcake infused with brandy and nuts, perfect for holiday celebrations and aging gracefully with a moist, flavorful texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in egg yolks until well combined.
- Dissolve baking soda in buttermilk and beat into the butter mixture.
- Combine 2 1/2 cups of flour with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, then add to the creamed mixture with red plum jam.
- Beat egg whites until stiff and fold into the batter.
- Combine remaining flour with chopped pecans, raisins, and chopped dates, then fold into the batter.
- Pour batter into a well greased and floured 10-inch tube pan.
- Bake for 3 to 3 1/2 hours or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Place the cake on a wire rack to cool completely.
- Wrap the cooled cake in a piece of cheesecloth soaked in brandy, then tightly wrap in aluminum foil.
- Allow the cake to age for 4 to 6 weeks in a cool place.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Christmas Keeping Cake, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or substituting a portion of the butter with apple sauce for a lighter version. If you prefer, swap the raisins for dried cranberries for a tart twist. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation, and remember that allowing the cake to age improves its flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a festive dessert. For added flavor, serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. It also makes a wonderful gift when wrapped in decorative paper, making it a lovely addition to holiday gatherings alongside a cup of spiced cider.
Storage & Reheating
Store the wrapped cake in a cool, dark place, as the aging process is crucial for flavor development. If you have leftovers, keep them tightly wrapped in the cheesecloth and aluminum foil to maintain moisture. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or enjoy it at room temperature for a delightful taste of the holidays.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Keeping Cake contains roughly 2126 calories, with 30g protein, 306g carbohydrates, and 95g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (100% of the Daily Value), iron (66% of the Daily Value), and protein (59% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 914mg per serving (40% 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 make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making the Christmas Keeping Cake in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. After wrapping it in cheesecloth soaked in brandy, it can be stored for 4 to 6 weeks. Just remember to check periodically for moisture and re-soak the cheesecloth if needed.
Is there a non-alcoholic substitute for brandy?
Yes, you can use apple juice or a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water as a non-alcoholic substitute for brandy. While it will alter the flavor slightly, it will still provide moisture and a hint of sweetness to the cake. Feel free to experiment with different flavors to find your preferred blend.
How can I ensure my cake rises properly?
To ensure proper rising, make sure your baking soda is fresh and that you correctly dissolve it in the buttermilk before adding it to the batter. Additionally, avoid overmixing once you add the flour, as this can lead to a dense cake. Finally, ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature for even baking.
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).