Christmas is a time for sharing joy, laughter, and of course, delightful treats! If you’re looking for the perfect dessert to impress your loved ones this holiday season, a Christmas banana fruit cake is an excellent choice. This moist and flavorful cake combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the festive goodness of soaked fruits and walnuts. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and bring the magic of Christmas to your kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Wet Ingredients:
- Ripe bananas
- Butter
- Eggs
- Lemon rind
- Vanilla extract
- Dry Ingredients:
- All-purpose flour
- Baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- Mix-ins:
- Walnuts (chopped)
- Soaked fruits (such as raisins, dried cherries, or candied peel)
- Toppings:
- Apple peppermint jam
- Cranberry jam
Instructions to Make the Cake
Preparing the Batters
- Start by mashing the bananas in one bowl and creaming the butter in another. Ensure both are smooth and lump-free for the best results.
- Add eggs, lemon rind, and vanilla extract to each bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients
- Combine the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt) in a separate bowl. Sift them to avoid clumps and to ensure an even texture.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until the batter comes together smoothly, but avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
Adding the Christmas Touch
- Fold in the chopped walnuts and pre-soaked fruits into the batter. This step adds the festive flavors and textures that make this cake truly special.
Baking the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line a baking tin, then pour in the prepared batter. Smooth the top for an even bake.
- Bake for 50 minutes to an hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.