If you’re searching for a showstopping treat that embodies the spirit of the holiday season, the Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake is here to steal your heart! This traybake is a delectable modern twist on traditional fruitcake, brimming with plump dried fruits, crunchy nuts, zesty citrus, and a cloud of powdered sugar on top. It’s an absolute joy to prepare and even more fun to share with family and friends – perfect for holiday potlucks or as a cheery homemade gift. Whether you’re an old fruitcake devotee or just looking to bake up something new, this recipe will bring bright, festive flavors to your Christmas table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beautiful thing about the Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake is how a handful of pantry staples create layers of festive flavor and holiday charm. Each ingredient is chosen with care – from the warming spices to the juicy dried fruits – all crucial to its soft crumb and dazzling finish.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Provides a rich, creamy base that keeps the cake moist and tender.
- Brown sugar (1 cup): Adds a deep, toasty sweetness and helps give the cake a gorgeous golden hue.
- Eggs (4 large): Bind everything together and help the traybake rise beautifully.
- All-purpose flour (1½ cups): Gives structure while keeping the cake delightfully light.
- Baking powder (1½ tsp): Ensures the traybake has just the right lift and fluffiness.
- Cinnamon + nutmeg (½ tsp + ¼ tsp): Brings classic warm spice notes that taste like pure Christmas.
- Mixed dried fruit (1½ cups, e.g., raisins, cherries, apricots): Every bite bursts with juicy, colorful gems – soak for extra plumpness!
- Chopped nuts (½ cup, walnuts or pecans): Add satisfying crunch and a nutty depth to balance the sweetness.
- Orange zest (from 1 orange): Lends a sunshine-bright, zesty aroma that wakes up the cake.
- Brandy or orange juice (2 tbsp, optional): Enhances the fruit’s flavor, making every piece taste extra celebratory.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting): The snowy finishing touch that turns your traybake into edible Christmas magic.
How to Make Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch traybake pan with parchment paper for easy removal later – it keeps your festive showpiece picture perfect.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar Until Fluffy
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and creamy. This step is key to creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Add Eggs, One at a Time
Crack in your eggs, one by one, mixing well after each addition. This process helps the eggs fully emulsify into the butter and sugar for a smooth, stable batter that’s ready to support all the goodies you’ll add next.
Step 4: Stir in Dry Ingredients and Zest
Sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then mix into the wet batter. Add the orange zest, which instantly fills your kitchen with citrusy holiday fragrance. Fold gently until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in Fruits, Nuts, and Brandy
Now for the stars of the show: stir in the mixed dried fruit, chopped nuts, and that splash of brandy or orange juice if you’re feeling extra festive. The batter will be thick and packed with treasures, just as it should be.
Step 6: Spread and Bake
Spoon the batter into your prepared tray, smoothing it into an even layer. Pop it in the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool, Dust, and Slice
Let the Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake cool in the pan, then gently lift it out. Give it a liberal snowfall of powdered sugar and cut into squares – each one gleaming with fruit, nuts, and holiday sparkle!
How to Serve Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake
Garnishes
For an extra festive finish, dust the top of your traybake with plenty of powdered sugar just before serving. You can also sprinkle over a handful of extra chopped nuts or scatter over a little orange zest for a dash of color and zing. Some crystallized ginger or a drizzle of white icing can add another layer of fun and flair if you’re feeling fancy.
Side Dishes
This traybake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or a glass of mulled wine. For dessert, serve each square alongside softly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing the cool creaminess to balance out the rich fruit and spice.
Creative Ways to Present
The Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake truly shines as a holiday centerpiece. Try arranging the cut squares on a colorful platter, adding a sprinkle of holly or fresh cranberries for a picture-perfect look. Wrap individual pieces in wax paper and tie with festive ribbons – they make charming edible gifts for friends, teachers, and neighbors!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake at its best, store leftover squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. The flavors will gently meld and deepen – some say the cake tastes even better the next day!
Freezing
This traybake freezes beautifully. Once cooled, wrap individual squares or the whole traybake tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to two months; simply thaw at room temperature overnight when you’re ready to serve.
Reheating
If you prefer your fruitcake traybake warm, pop servings in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes. Warmed squares become extra fragrant and comforting, perfect for chilly winter evenings.
FAQs
Can I swap out the dried fruits for my favorites?
Absolutely! Use your favorite combination – dried cranberries, figs, pineapple, or even a handful of candied peel would be delicious. Just keep the total amount to about 1½ cups for best results.
Does the Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake need to be made with alcohol?
Nope! While brandy brings a wonderful depth of flavor, a good splash of orange juice makes a lovely alcohol-free alternative that keeps things just as moist and vibrant.
Can I make this traybake gluten free?
Yes, you can substitute a measure-for-measure gluten free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. The texture may be slightly different, but you’ll still get a festive, crowd-pleasing bake.
How far ahead can I bake this for the holidays?
This traybake keeps well for up to 4 days and can be frozen even longer. You can easily make it a day or two before your gathering, letting the flavors develop for a truly delicious experience.
Why is my fruitcake traybake dry?
Be careful not to overbake – check at the minimum time and remove when just done. Using fresh, plump dried fruit (and soaking it if it seems a bit hard) also helps keep everything perfectly moist.
Final Thoughts
I can’t think of a sweeter way to bring family and friends together than with a platter of Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake. The mix of fruit, spice, and citrus is pure holiday joy, and the recipe is a breeze to whip up. Treat yourself and your loved ones this season – I promise, everyone will be asking for the recipe!