Name: Easy Christmas Cake Traybake: Your Festive Flavor Fix
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 250 g Unsalted Butter (Provides richness and moisture); 200 g Sugar (Can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor); 4 pieces Eggs (Ensure at room temperature); 300 g Self-Raising Flour (Can substitute with all-purpose flour + leavening agent); 150 g Dried Mixed Fruits (Consider using dried figs, dates, or cranberries); 75 ml Brandy (For a non-alcoholic version, use orange juice or apple cider); 250 g Marzipan (Can alternate with royal icing); 250 g Fondant (For a smooth finish)

As I unwrapped the colorful layers of holiday cheer, a delightful aroma filled the air—it’s the unmistakable scent of my Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake beckoning me to indulge. This Easy Christmas Cake Traybake is more than just a dessert; it’s a charming blend of brandy-soaked fruits enveloped in a moist, buttery cake that effortlessly elevates any festive gathering. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, making it a joy for both expert bakers and those just finding their footing in the kitchen. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to mix and match your favorite dried fruits or adjust the frosting to make it uniquely yours. So, are you ready to create a holiday centerpiece that’s as delicious as it is stunning? Let’s dive in!

Why is this Traybake So Irresistible?

Simplicity: This Easy Christmas Cake Traybake is a breeze to make—perfect for both new and seasoned bakers. Customizable: You can easily swap dried fruits or even adjust the frosting to suit your taste. Rich Flavor: The brandy-infused fruits provide an aromatic depth that transforms each bite into a celebration. Eye-Catching: Topped with marzipan and fondant, it’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat! Want more festive options? Check out my Cabbage Roll Casserole and Southern Peach Cobbler for your holiday feast!

Easy Christmas Cake Traybake Ingredients

For the Cake Base

Dried Mixed Fruits – Essential for flavor, adds sweetness and texture; consider using dried figs, dates, or cranberries for a unique twist.
Butter – Provides richness and moisture; use unsalted butter for better control over salt content.
Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in browning; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
Eggs – Acts as a binder for structure; ensure eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification.
Self-Raising Flour – Gives the cake its rise and lightness; can be substituted with all-purpose flour plus a leavening agent.
Brandy – Enhances flavor with aromatic depth; for a non-alcoholic version, use orange juice or apple cider.

For Decoration

Marzipan – Adds both complexity and sweetness; can be alternated with royal icing for a festive touch.
Fondant – Used for decoration to create a smooth, professional finish; icing sugar can be utilized for a simple glaze instead.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Christmas Cake Traybake

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Mixture
Start by soaking the dried mixed fruits in brandy overnight. This step is crucial as it plumps the fruits and enriches their flavors, creating a deeply flavorful base for your Easy Christmas Cake Traybake. Use an airtight container to keep the fruits immersed, and place it in a cool spot to infuse those delightful aromas.

Step 2: Make the Batter
The next day, preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and line a traybake pan with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 250g of unsalted butter and 200g of sugar until light and fluffy—this should take about 4–5 minutes. Then, add 4 eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, ensuring a smooth batter for your festive treat.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Once your butter and sugar are well combined, sift in 300g of self-raising flour. Gently fold the flour into the mixture until just combined; this keeps your cake light and tender. Be careful not to overmix. The batter will be thick, creamy, and golden—a sign you’re ready for the exciting next step!

Step 4: Fold in the Fruit
Now, it’s time to incorporate the star of the show: the soaked fruits! Carefully fold the plumped fruits into your batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout. This process should be gentle to maintain the fluffiness of the mixture, resulting in a beautifully studded Easy Christmas Cake Traybake filled with luscious flavors.

Step 5: Bake
Transfer the batter into the prepared traybake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake. Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 60–70 minutes. Keep an eye on it—when a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready to be taken out, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.

Step 6: Cool and Decorate
Once baked, allow the Easy Christmas Cake Traybake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. After cooling, it’s time to get creative! Roll out marzipan and fondant to cover the cake, creating a festive appearance. Your holiday centerpiece is now ready to shine on the table!

Make Ahead Options

The Easy Christmas Cake Traybake is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can soak the dried mixed fruits in brandy up to 24 hours in advance, infusing them with rich flavor and ensuring they plump up nicely. Additionally, you can prepare and bake the traybake itself up to 3 days ahead. After cooling, store the unadorned cake in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it moist and fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the marzipan and fondant decorations for a festive touch. This make-ahead approach ensures your holiday dessert is just as delicious and allows you to enjoy more time with loved ones!

Expert Tips for Easy Christmas Cake Traybake

Optimal Soaking: Soak the dried fruits in brandy for at least 12 hours to enrich flavors. Skipping this step can leave the fruits dry and less flavorful.
Room Temperature Eggs: Always use room temperature eggs to ensure better emulsification in the batter. Cold eggs can lead to curdling, impacting the cake’s texture.
Gentle Folding: Fold the fruit into the batter gently to harness the airiness of your mixture. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, which isn’t the goal for our Easy Christmas Cake Traybake.
Testing for Doneness: Use a skewer inserted into the center; it should come out clean without wet batter clinging. This is crucial to avoid underbaking, which can affect the final texture.
Resting Time: Let the cake sit overnight before decorating; this helps the flavors meld together, making it even more delicious.

How to Store and Freeze Easy Christmas Cake Traybake

Room Temperature: Store the decorated Easy Christmas Cake Traybake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps it fresh while allowing flavors to develop.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the undecorated cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight before decorating it to bring back its delicious charm.

Reheating: If desired, warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy a cozy treat that brings back festive memories.

Easy Christmas Cake Traybake Variations

Feel free to explore the delightful world of customization with your Easy Christmas Cake Traybake! With just a few simple tweaks, you can create a unique twist on this festive favorite.

Dried Fruit Varieties: Swap out traditional fruit mix for raspberries or cherries to add a tart burst.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful texture contrast.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute self-raising flour with gluten-free flour mix and a touch of baking powder for a gluten-free treat.
Zesty Flavor: Incorporate orange or lemon zest into the batter for a refreshing citrus note.
Fruity Frosting: Top with a cream cheese frosting instead of fondant for a tangy, creamy finish.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to enhance the warm, cozy flavors of the cake.
Non-Alcoholic: For a family-friendly version, replace brandy with cranberry juice or apple cider to keep the festive spirit alive.
Choco Delight: Mix in chocolate chips for added sweetness and a rich chocolatey twist that both kids and adults will love.

These variations can take your Easy Christmas Cake Traybake to new heights, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the holiday table. And if you’re inspired to make more delicious desserts, check out my scrumptious Cinnamon Swirl Bundt Cake for a delightful treat that’s sure to win hearts!

What to Serve with Easy Christmas Cake Traybake

A delightful dessert like this traybake deserves a full meal experience that complements its rich, festive flavors.

Sweetened Cream Cheese Frosting: A tangy yet sweet addition that enhances the fruit flavors, balancing out the cake’s sweetness.
Spiced Warm Custard: Pour over a slice for a warm, creamy contrast that brings out the holiday spirit in every bite.
Cinnamon Sugar Dust: Lightly sprinkle this aromatic mix on top before serving to add warmth and an inviting crunch.
Chocolate Ganache Layer: A decadent chocolate topping creates a rich, indulgent layer that pairs beautifully with the cake’s fruity undertones.
Fresh Berries Medley: Bright, juicy berries provide a burst of freshness and color that contrasts nicely with the dense cake.
Ginger Tea: The spiciness of this warm beverage complements the festive flavors while aiding digestion after a hearty meal.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a cooling, smooth texture that perfectly offsets the rich, moist cake.
Mulled Wine: This warm, spiced wine adds a cozy touch, ideally suited for holiday gatherings and celebrations.

Easy Christmas Cake Traybake Recipe FAQs

What kind of dried fruits should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use a combination of dried mixed fruits like raisins, currants, and sultanas. You can also experiment with dried figs, dates, or cranberries for a unique twist. Just make sure to soak them overnight in brandy to plump them up!

How should I store the Easy Christmas Cake Traybake?
To keep your decorated cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This maintains its moisture and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Can I freeze the Easy Christmas Cake Traybake?
Very! For longer storage, wrap the undecorated cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before adding any decorations.

What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If your Easy Christmas Cake Traybake turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or not incorporating enough air during the creaming process. To prevent this, ensure you’re folding in dry ingredients gently and avoid overmixing after adding the flour.

Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for those with nut allergies! You’ll focus on dried fruits and other ingredients like flour and butter, which are typically safe for those avoiding nuts. However, always double-check your specific ingredients for potential cross-contamination.

How do I add extra flavors to my Easy Christmas Cake Traybake?
To enhance the flavors of your traybake, consider adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the dry ingredients. You can also infuse additional flavors by swapping out the brandy for orange juice or apple cider if you want a non-alcoholic version.