If ever there was a cake that perfectly captures the warmth and nostalgia of holiday baking, it’s this Homemade Christmas Plum Cake recipe. Filled with spiced aromas, jeweled with plump dried fruits, and finished with a dark, rich crumb, this cake transports you to cozy winter days surrounded by laughter and twinkling lights. Every bite is a celebration, and whether it’s your first time baking it or a cherished yearly tradition, you’ll be amazed by how each simple ingredient blends to create true festive magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be pleasantly surprised how the simplest ingredients come together for this festive classic. Each element of the Homemade Christmas Plum Cake recipe plays a special role, building that complex, comforting flavor and irresistible texture that’s a must for any holiday gathering.
- Flour (2 cups/250g): The foundation of the cake, all-purpose flour gives structure without overpowering the tender crumb.
- Baking powder (1 tsp): Ensures your cake rises beautifully and stays light.
- Baking soda (½ tsp): Adds a gentle lift and balances flavors, especially with the brown sugar and molasses.
- Mixed spice or all-spice (1 tsp): Adds that unmistakable festive aroma and warmth—don’t skip this!
- Cinnamon (1 tsp): Provides sweet, spicy depth that makes every bite taste like Christmas.
- Nutmeg (½ tsp): A pinch of nutmeg softens the spices and infuses coziness.
- Salt (a pinch): Just enough to balance the sweetness and lift the flavors.
- Unsalted butter (170g/¾ cup, softened): For richness and a velvety, melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
- Brown sugar (1 cup/200g): Sweetens the cake and gives it a lovely, moist texture with hints of caramel.
- Eggs (3 large): Bind everything together, add structure, and keep the cake lush.
- Vanilla flavor (1 tsp): Enhances all the other flavors without overwhelming them.
- Mixed dried fruits (1½ cups): A combination of raisins, currants, chopped dates, cherries, and prunes for that perfectly chewy burst in every slice.
- Orange zest (1 tbsp): Brightens the rich flavors and adds a sunny zing.
- Orange juice (½ cup/120ml): Used to soak the fruit, adding moisture and making the cake extra fragrant.
- Black treacle/molasses (2 tbsp, optional): Deepens the color and flavor; if you love a dark, festive cake, don’t skip this.
- Chopped nuts (½ cup, optional): Almonds or cashews add a luxurious crunch and extra festive flair.
How to Make Homemade Christmas Plum Cake recipe
Step 1: Soak the Fruits
Start by soaking your mixed dried fruits in the orange juice, tossing in the orange zest as well. Let this soak for at least 30 minutes—you can even leave it overnight if time allows. This step is what makes the Homemade Christmas Plum Cake recipe so moist and plump with bursts of flavor in every bite, so don’t rush it.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar. Beat until the mixture is light, fluffy, and the color lightens—this takes about 3–5 minutes and brings air into the batter for a beautiful cake texture.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Flavors
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a silky smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract and black treacle or molasses (if using), which together create the cake’s distinctive, festive aroma and darker hue.
Step 4: Sift and Combine the Dry Ingredients
Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, mixed spice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt into a separate bowl. Sifting not only removes lumps but also evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices for a uniform crumb.
Step 5: Fold Everything Together
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture in batches, using a spatula or wooden spoon. Once incorporated, add your soaked fruits (along with any leftover soaking liquid) and nuts, then mix just until everything is beautifully combined and the batter is thick.
Step 6: Prepare the Pan and Bake
Line a baking pan with parchment and lightly grease it—you’ll thank yourself when the cake slips out perfectly later. Pour the batter in, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 55–65 minutes. The cake is ready when a skewer poked into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
Step 7: Cool Completely
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then gently remove and transfer to a rack to cool fully. This patience allows the crumb to set and keeps your Homemade Christmas Plum Cake recipe moist and easy to slice.
How to Serve Homemade Christmas Plum Cake recipe
Garnishes
The crowning touch to your cake matters! Dust with a snowfall of powdered sugar, decorate with candied cherries, or scatter some extra chopped nuts across the top. You can even brush the top with a little warmed apricot jam for shimmering, bakery-style glamour. A personal favorite: add a sprig of fresh rosemary or holly for a show-stopping holiday centerpiece.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs irresistibly well with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a truly festive touch, serve it with warm custard or a drizzle of brandy sauce. If you’re hosting a holiday get-together, offer slices alongside spiced mulled wine or a robust cup of coffee for full Christmas vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut your cake into small squares and wrap each in parchment and festive ribbon for adorable homemade gifts. Or, plate full slices with a swirl of cream and a few orange segments. Another option: layer cubes of the cake in a trifle bowl with mascarpone cream and fresh berries for a quick dessert wow-factor!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover slices of your Homemade Christmas Plum Cake recipe tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The cake actually develops deeper flavor over time, making each slice more irresistible.
Freezing
To keep your cake fresh for weeks, freeze individual slices or the whole cake, well-wrapped, for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature, and the texture will stay lovely—perfect when you want a taste of Christmas long after the season.
Reheating
Warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in a low oven just before serving. This refreshes the cake’s aroma and brings back that just-baked softness, especially delicious when paired with ice cream or custard.
FAQs
Can I make this cake without eggs?
Absolutely! Substitute the 3 eggs with ¾ cup of unsweetened applesauce or use commercial egg replacers. The result will be just as moist and flavorful, though ever so slightly denser.
What if I don’t have molasses or treacle?
No worries—your Homemade Christmas Plum Cake recipe will still be amazing! You can leave it out, or add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar and a touch of honey for subtle richness and color.
Can I substitute the dried fruits?
Of course! Mix and match as you please: golden raisins, cranberries, dried apricots, or whatever you fancy. Just keep the overall amount the same for the best results.
How do I know when the cake is done?
A skewer or thin knife inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top will be firm and beautifully golden brown, and your kitchen will smell heavenly.
Can I bake this cake in advance for gifting?
Yes! In fact, this is the perfect homemade present. Bake the cake a few days ahead; just wrap tightly and store as directed above. The flavors mature and it slices beautifully for sharing with lucky friends and neighbors.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing more joyful than sharing a slice of this Homemade Christmas Plum Cake recipe with loved ones. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a centerpiece of your holiday traditions, evoking warm memories and sparking new ones. Go ahead—gather your ingredients, and let your kitchen fill with the spirit of Christmas!