"Philly" Christmas Cake
A festive and flavorful Christmas cake with candied fruit, pecans, and a rich cream cheese base, perfect for holiday gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thoroughly blend softened cream cheese, margarine, sugar, and vanilla.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually add 2 cups of sifted flour with baking powder.
- Combine 1/4 cup flour with candied fruit and 1/2 cup chopped pecans; fold into batter.
- Grease a 10-inch Bundt or tube pan; sprinkle with finely chopped pecans.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake at 325°F (163°C) for 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Cool for 5 minutes; remove from pan.
- Garnish with candied pineapple slices and cherries.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you want to reduce sugar, you can substitute half of it with applesauce. When mixing the batter, ensure that the cream cheese is fully softened for a smoother texture. When adding the flour, do so gradually to avoid lumps. If you have extra candied fruit, try adding it to a fruitcake or as a topping for pancakes.
Serving Suggestions
This delightful cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, serve it with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also makes a great dessert alongside a cheese platter featuring sharp cheddar or creamy brie. For an added surprise, serve with Peanut Butter Cups(Tastes Like Reese'S) for a sweet and savory combo.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, slice the cake and warm it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Philly" Christmas Cake contains roughly 1399 calories, with 21g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (46% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and iron (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1280mg per serving (56% 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 use different nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds, depending on your preference. Just ensure they are chopped finely to blend well into the batter. This will give a different flavor profile while still complementing the cake's richness.
What can I use instead of candied fruit?
If you prefer a fresher taste, you can use dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped apricots. Soak them in warm water beforehand to soften and enhance their sweetness. This swap will give the cake a different texture and flavor.
Is there a way to make this cake more festive?
Absolutely! You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, holiday flavor. Additionally, consider glazing the cake with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk, or decorating it with festive sprinkles or edible glitter.
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).