Willard Scott'S Favorite Christmas Cake
Willard Scott's Favorite Christmas Cake boasts vibrant red color and moist texture, perfect for festive celebrations. Its rich flavors are enhanced by cocoa and vanilla, making it a delightful treat for family gatherings and holiday parties, appealing to those who enjoy colorful, flavorful cakes with a tender crumb.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Mix together all ingredients with an electric mixer.
- Spray three 9-inch round cake pans with nonstick coating.
- Pour batter equally into the 3 pans.
- Bake for 20 minutes.
- Test for doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool layers in pans on wire racks for 10 minutes.
- Carefully remove layers from pans to racks to cool completely.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it by mixing milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a better blend. For a festive twist, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts, which would also pair beautifully with Short Bread Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
This Christmas cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also goes well with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee. For a festive touch, consider drizzling with Icing For Coconut Cake for added sweetness and decoration.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, ensuring they remain moist and flavorful.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Willard Scott'S Favorite Christmas Cake contains roughly 274 calories, with 5g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% 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 all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour, but be sure to add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt to mimic the self-rising flour's effects. This will help your cake rise properly and achieve the desired texture.
What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
You can substitute vegetable oil with an equal amount of canola oil, melted coconut oil, or even applesauce for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that using applesauce may slightly alter the texture, making it a bit denser.
How can I make this cake ahead of time?
You can bake the cake layers in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Once cooled completely, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap. When ready to serve, simply frost it after bringing it to room temperature.
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).