Christmas

Christmas Cake with Raisins, Nuts, and Candied Fruits

Every winter, as the holidays approach, the aroma of spices and sweets floods our senses and reminds us of warm moments spent with loved ones. The Christmas cake is a classic recipe that combines tradition with the joy of spending time in the kitchen, creating a delicious dessert that will delight the whole family. This cake is rich in aromatic ingredients and textures, and each slice is an explosion of flavors and memories.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 45-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of Servings: 12 servings

Ingredients:
- 500 g raisins
- 200 g candied fruits (oranges, cherries, pineapple)
- 75 g ground nuts
- 350 g flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Zest of one lemon
- Zest of one orange
- 250 g soft butter (at room temperature)
- 275 g sugar
- 5 eggs (at room temperature)
- 3 tablespoons cognac

Brief History of the Recipe
The modern version of the Christmas cake is inspired by ancient cooking traditions, where dried fruits were used during the holidays as a way to preserve the flavors of summer. This dessert is often associated with family gatherings and festive meals, carrying a sense of nostalgia and comfort. The aroma of cinnamon and citrus takes us back to the warmth of home and the joy of reunification.

Preparation Techniques
1. Preparing the Ingredients:
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This trick is essential for achieving a uniform and well-incorporated mixture. Start by soaking the raisins in warm water for about 10 minutes, then drain them well. This step will make the raisins softer and prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake.

2. Making the Cream:
In a large bowl, add the soft butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to beat the ingredients together until you achieve a fluffy and light-colored cream. This is when air will enter the mixture, giving the cake a fluffy texture.

3. Adding Flavors:
Add the lemon and orange zest, cinnamon, ground nuts, and mix well. Here, you can experiment with other spices, such as cloves or nutmeg, for an even more complex flavor.

4. Incorporating the Eggs:
Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. This will ensure an even emulsification of the ingredients. Don't rush; each egg should be fully incorporated before moving to the next.

5. Mixing the Flour and Cognac:
Sift the flour and gradually add it to the butter mixture, mixing with a spatula. At this point, also add the cognac. Mix everything gently to avoid developing the gluten in the flour, which could lead to a denser cake.

6. Incorporating the Raisins and Candied Fruits:
Finally, fold in the soaked raisins and finely chopped candied fruits. Ensure they are evenly distributed in the mixture.

7. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat). Grease a loaf pan with butter and sprinkle with flour to prevent sticking. Pour the mixture into the pan and level the surface with a spatula. Bake the cake for 45-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. It's important to understand that each oven is different, so it's good to check the cake after 45 minutes.

8. Care During Baking:
During baking, you can poke the cake with a toothpick and occasionally drizzle it with a little cognac. This will add moisture and flavor, making the dessert even more delicious.

9. Cooling and Serving:
Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can decorate it with powdered sugar or a citrus glaze for a festive appearance.

Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs perfectly with a cup of hot tea or mulled wine, especially during winter evenings. You can add a dollop of sour cream or vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use another type of alcohol instead of cognac?
Of course! You can try rum or whiskey for a different touch to the cake.

- How can I keep the cake fresh for longer?
Wrap it well in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for a few days and in the refrigerator for a week.

- What candied fruits are most suitable?
You can use cherries, pineapple, or even apricots. Choose the fruits you like best to customize the cake's flavor.

Nutritional Benefits
Raisins are an excellent source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, while nuts provide healthy fats and protein. Whole grain flour can be a healthier option, adding extra fiber. This dessert, while rich and sweet, can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Possible Variations
- Chocolate Cake: Add dark chocolate chunks to the mixture for a decadent flavor.
- Vegan Cake: Replace the butter with coconut oil and the eggs with banana puree or a mixture of flaxseeds and water.
- Coffee-flavored Cake: Add a few tablespoons of instant coffee to the mixture for a unique taste.

Try making this Christmas cake with raisins, nuts, and candied fruits and let the aromas fill your home with warmth and joy. This is not just a dessert but an unforgettable experience, perfect for sharing with loved ones. Remember, cooking is an art, and every recipe is a story in itself!