Name: Festive Christmas Cake Traybake for Joyful Holiday Moments
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (softened and at room temperature); 1 cup Sugar (or substitute with brown sugar); 3 large Eggs (room temperature); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free blend if needed); 2 cups Mixed Dried Fruits (customize with favorites); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (ensure it's fresh); 1 teaspoon Spices (e.g., cinnamon, nutmeg) (adjust according to taste); 1 cup Icing Sugar (mix with lemon juice for a refreshing touch)

As the magical scent of warm spices and sweet dried fruits fills the air, it’s hard not to feel a tug at the heartstrings during the holidays. My Festive Christmas Cake Traybake is not just an easy-to-make dessert; it’s a delightful way to share the holiday spirit with friends and family. Infused with a perfectly balanced medley of fruity flavors and cozy spices, this traybake is a wonderful alternative to the traditional fruitcake—perfect for gifting or serving at your festive gatherings. What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; you can customize it with your favorite dried fruits and toppings, making it a true crowd-pleaser! Are you ready to create a showstopper that will have everyone asking for seconds?

Why is this cake a holiday favorite?

Unforgettable flavor: The combination of mixed dried fruits and warm spices gives this cake an aromatic and inviting taste that instantly brings the holiday spirit into your home.

Easy to customize: Whether you prefer cranberries, apricots, or even chocolate chips, the options are endless for personalizing this delicious traybake to fit your tastes.

Perfect for sharing: This cake makes an impressive centerpiece for holiday gatherings or a thoughtful gift for neighbors and friends.

Quick to prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip this up in no time, leaving you more time to enjoy holiday festivities.

Moist and festive texture: Enjoy delightful bites that are soft and fragrant, ensuring each piece is a delight during your celebrations.

Consider pairing it with a slice of Coffee Cheesecake Luscious for an espresso twist or serving it alongside Italian Lemon Cake for a refreshing contrast!

Festive Christmas Cake Traybake Ingredients

For the Batter
Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s at room temperature for optimal blending.
Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure; substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Eggs – Bind ingredients together and provide lift; use room temperature eggs for the best results.
All-Purpose Flour – The base for the cake structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed.
Mixed Dried Fruits – Contributes flavor and texture; customize with your favorites (e.g., cranberries, apricots).
Baking Powder – A leavening agent for a light cake; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Spices (e.g., cinnamon, nutmeg) – Add warm flavors typical of holiday bakes; adjust according to taste preference.
For the Icing
Icing Sugar – For decoration; mix with a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing touch.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Christmas Cake Traybake

Step 1: Prep Oven & Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take a 9×13 inch baking tray and grease it with butter or non-stick spray, then line the base with parchment paper. This will ensure your Festive Christmas Cake Traybake releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Look for a pale, creamy texture that indicates the butter and sugar have emulsified properly for the best cake structure.

Step 3: Add Eggs
Crack 3 room temperature eggs into the bowl, adding them one at a time. After each addition, mix thoroughly until fully incorporated and the batter appears silky. This step is crucial for the rise of your Festive Christmas Cake Traybake, so take your time to ensure the eggs blend well with the buttery mixture.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and your chosen spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg—about 1 teaspoon of each for that holiday warmth. Gradually fold this dry mix into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can result in a dense bake.

Step 5: Incorporate Dried Fruits
Now it’s time to add 2 cups of mixed dried fruits to your batter. Carefully fold them in with a spatula, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture without overmixing. The colorful fruits will add beautiful bursts of flavor and texture to your Festive Christmas Cake Traybake, making it visually appealing as well.

Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking tray, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a skewer or toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached when the cake is ready.

Step 7: Cool & Decorate
Once baked, remove your traybake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for approximately 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can decorate with icing made from icing sugar and a splash of lemon juice, or top with your favorite seasonal embellishments to enhance its festive look.

How to Store and Freeze Festive Christmas Cake Traybake

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps the cake moist while allowing the flavors to develop further.

Fridge: If you’re in a warmer climate, it’s best to refrigerate the cake, where it can last up to 10 days. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the traybake well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, gently heat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This delicious Festive Christmas Cake Traybake is great for sharing and remains delectable even after freezing!

What to Serve with Festive Christmas Cake Traybake

The holiday season calls for a delightful spread that complements the sweet and spiced notes of this charming traybake.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness creates a wonderful contrast to the sweet cake, making for a balanced plate that delights the senses.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy edges and slight bitterness contrast beautifully with the cake’s sweetness, providing a necessary depth.
Mulled Wine: This cozy drink, infused with spices, echoes the warm flavors of the cake and adds a festive touch to any gathering.
Hot Chocolate Bar: Set up a hot chocolate station with toppings like marshmallows and whipped cream to sweetly tie in the holiday spirit!
Gingerbread Cookies: Their spiced flavor creates a delightful consistency with the cake, enticing those with a taste for traditional festive treats.
Pecan Pie: The nutty crunch and caramel sweetness of this pie will pair wonderfully, creating an indulgent dessert duo.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on the side enhances the cake’s richness while offering a light, airy contrast.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mixture of seasonal fruits adds brightness to your plate, balancing the dense flavors of the Festive Christmas Cake Traybake.
Eggnog: Serving this classic holiday drink alongside desserts brings a nostalgic warmth that fits perfectly with your festive theme.

Expert Tips for Festive Christmas Cake Traybake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification, resulting in a lighter, fluffier cake.
Gentle Folding: Fold your dry ingredients into the wet mixture gently to prevent overmixing, which can lead to a dense texture in your Festive Christmas Cake Traybake.
Oven Calibration: Every oven is different! Check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time, adjusting as necessary for best results.
Cooling Process: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before transferring to maintain the integrity of the icing and avoid breakage.
Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different dried fruits or spices to make the recipe uniquely yours, just remember to adjust the amount accordingly.

Make Ahead Options

These Festive Christmas Cake Traybakes are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to savor the holiday season without last-minute stress! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance, simply refrigerating it in an airtight container to preserve its freshness. To do this, follow all the steps up to incorporating the dried fruits, then cover the bowl and chill the mixture. When you’re ready to bake, fold in the mixed dried fruits and pour the batter into your prepared tray. Bake as directed for a delightful treat that’s just as moist and flavorful! This makes holiday entertaining not only easier but also gives you more time to enjoy the festivities with family and friends.

Festive Christmas Cake Traybake Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with this traybake, making it uniquely yours with delightful twists and substitutions!

Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free butter substitute such as coconut oil or vegan butter for a plant-based treat.
Nutty Surprise: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
Spice It Up: Include ginger or allspice in place of cinnamon for a zesty kick that brings warmth to every bite.
Chocolate Twist: Swap out half of the dried fruits for dark chocolate chips for a rich and decadent experience; who doesn’t love chocolate?
Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon into the batter for a bright, citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with dried fruits.
Fruity Variation: Substitute mixed dried fruits with fresh fruits like apples or pears. Just ensure they’re diced small and possibly adjusted for baking time.
Gluten-Free: To make this traybake gluten-free, simply replace all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend, ensuring it performs well in baking.
Decorative Toppings: Top with fresh berries, edible flowers, or a sprinkle of edible glitter for a beautiful festive touch that’s sure to impress.

If you’re in the mood for more luscious desserts, check out our Brownie Cheesecake Sweet or the zesty Coconut Cloud Cake to round out your festive dessert spread!

Festive Christmas Cake Traybake Recipe FAQs

What type of dried fruits should I use?
Absolutely! You can choose your favorite mix of dried fruits, but I recommend a combination of cranberries, apricots, and raisins for a balance of tartness and sweetness. Aim for approximately 2 cups total, making sure they aren’t too hard or dried out—look for plump fruits without dark spots all over.

How should I store my traybake?
For the best results, store your Festive Christmas Cake Traybake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This helps retain its moist texture. If you live in a hotter climate, you might want to refrigerate it, where it can stay fresh for up to 10 days—just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

Can I freeze the cake, and how?
Yes, you can freeze the traybake! First, allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label it with the date, and it should stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and it will be just as delicious as fresh!

What if my cake didn’t rise as expected?
If your Festive Christmas Cake Traybake didn’t rise properly, there could be a couple of reasons. First, ensure your baking powder is fresh; old leavening agents can lead to a dense texture. Also, incorporating eggs one at a time and mixing until just combined is crucial. Overmixing can result in a heavy cake, so gently fold the dry ingredients in. If your oven temperature is off, you might also need to adjust baking time as not all ovens heat the same way.

Is this cake suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Great question! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, and you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just double-check that your dried fruits and any toppings don’t contain added sugars or allergens specific to individuals with dietary restrictions. Always consider checking with your guests if they have allergies or dietary needs, especially with nuts if you choose to add them!

Can I make this traybake in advance for the holidays?
Absolutely! You can prepare your Festive Christmas Cake Traybake up to a week in advance, just be sure to store it properly in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. It’s a fantastic option for holiday gatherings, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without last-minute baking stress!