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The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in delicious cakes, pies, and the classic Christmas cake. These baked treats not only add sweetness to the festivities but also bring a sense of tradition and comfort to the table. Here are some classic recipes to help you bake the perfect cake, pie, and Christmas cake for your next celebration.
1. Classic Vanilla Cake
A simple and versatile dessert, the classic vanilla cake is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to festive gatherings.
Ingredients:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1 cup milk
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Tips: Frost with buttercream, cream cheese frosting, or your favorite frosting.
2. Apple Pie
Apple pie is a beloved classic, perfect for cozy nights or holiday dinners. The combination of tart apples and warm spices makes it irresistible.
Ingredients:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter (chilled and cubed)
½ tsp salt
¼ cup ice water
6 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
1 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions:
For the pie crust, combine the flour and salt in a bowl. Add the cubed butter and mix until the dough resembles coarse crumbs.
Slowly add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
In a large bowl, peel, core, and slice the apples. Toss with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch.
Fill the prepared pie crust with the apple mixture. Roll out the second half of the dough and place it over the apples. Trim excess dough, crimp the edges, and cut slits in the top to vent.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Let the pie cool before serving.
Tips: Serve with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
3. Traditional Christmas Cake
A traditional Christmas cake is a rich, spiced fruitcake filled with dried fruits and nuts. It is often soaked in alcohol and left to mature for weeks, allowing the flavors to meld.
Ingredients:
2 cups mixed dried fruits (raisins, sultanas, currants, dates)
1 cup candied peel
1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
1 cup dark rum (or brandy)
1 ½ cups unsalted butter (softened)
1 ½ cups dark brown sugar
4 large eggs
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp ground cloves
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup milk
Instructions:
Soak the dried fruits and candied peel in dark rum (or brandy) for at least 24 hours, or even up to a week.
Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Sift the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves into the bowl. Add the dry ingredients alternately with the milk, mixing gently.
Stir in the soaked dried fruits, candied peel, and chopped nuts.
Pour the mixture into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 2–2 ½ hours, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. Wrap it in parchment paper and store in an airtight container. For extra richness, you can occasionally brush the cake with more rum or brandy.
Tips: For a traditional finish, cover the cake with marzipan and royal icing. You can also decorate with holly leaves and berries for a festive touch.
Conclusion
Cakes, pies, and Christmas cakes are essential to the holiday season, bringing joy and warmth to every gathering. Whether you're baking a light and fluffy vanilla cake, a comforting apple pie, or a rich and spiced Christmas cake, these recipes are sure to make your celebrations even more special. Enjoy baking, sharing, and indulging in these timeless treats with family and friends!
Source - OhWomen
