Saint Nicholas Cake
A festive and rich cake featuring dried fruit, nuts, and a hint of rum or brandy extract, perfect for holiday celebrations and special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove 2 tablespoons of flour and mix with the raisins, chopped pecans, and candied cherries.
- Combine the remaining flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl.
- Stir well to blend the dry ingredients.
- Add softened butter, milk, and rum or brandy extract. Blend on low to mix, then beat for 2 minutes on medium speed.
- Add eggs and beat for 2 minutes.
- Stir in the floured fruit and nut mixture.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured Bundt pan or tube pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 55 to 60 minutes.
- Frost with glaze or dust with icing sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the butter with cream cheese. If you want to boost the fruitiness, try adding dried cranberries or apricots along with the raisins. Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for better mixing. When measuring flour, spoon it into the cup and level it off for accuracy. This cake is often enjoyed during the holiday season, making it a delightful treat alongside American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Saint Nicholas Cake with a cup of spiced tea or coffee for a cozy treat. It pairs beautifully with a light drizzle of glaze or a dusting of icing sugar for added sweetness. This cake is perfect for festive gatherings or as a delightful dessert after a hearty meal like Herbed Lima Bean Bake. You can also top it with whipped cream for an indulgent touch.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped in foil or plastic wrap for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saint Nicholas Cake contains roughly 1185 calories, with 9g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (33% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2403mg per serving (104% 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds based on your preference. Just ensure that the nuts are chopped to a similar size to maintain the texture of the cake. If someone has nut allergies, you can omit them entirely, and the cake will still be delicious.
What can I use if I don't have rum or brandy extract?
If you don't have rum or brandy extract, you can substitute it with vanilla extract for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, use an equal amount of orange juice or apple juice to add a fruity essence to the cake. Just remember that this may slightly alter the final taste.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. If it has wet batter on it, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes and check again. Keep an eye on the top to prevent over-browning.
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).