Looking to switch things up this holiday season with a Christmas cake recipe that skips the usual dried fruits but still delivers a rich, moist, and festive treat? Well, you’re in luck! This recipe for Christmas Cake Without Fruit is a delightful twist on the traditional fruitcake, perfect for those who prefer a simpler, yet still indulgent, dessert option. With a hint of warm spices and a luscious texture, this cake is sure to become a new favorite at your holiday gatherings.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or bundt pan, ensuring it is well coated to prevent sticking.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined. Set aside.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar**
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or a stand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. **Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla**
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until incorporated.
5. **Alternate Mixtures**
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix to avoid a tough cake.
6. **Bake Away**
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. **Cool and Enjoy**
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve slices of this delightful Christmas cake on a beautiful platter or cake stand for a festive touch.
Get ready to watch your guests’ faces light up with delight as they savor each bite of this delectable Christmas Cake Without Fruit. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking to treat yourself to a cozy dessert, this recipe is a wonderful addition to your repertoire. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of the season with this twist on a classic favorite. Happy baking!
