Description
This Air Fryer Christmas Cake is a festive, moist, and flavorful cake packed with plump dried fruits and warm spices. Quick to make in an air fryer, it captures the traditional flavors of a holiday fruitcake without the long baking times of an oven. Perfect for holiday gatherings, gifting, or cozy winter treats.
Introduction
Infused with brandy or orange juice, rich spices, and a medley of dried fruits, this cake is a delightful holiday staple. Baking it in an air fryer gives a perfectly cooked, moist cake with a tender crumb and deep, festive flavor. Optional decoration with marzipan, icing, or brandy adds a traditional Christmas touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist, tender, and packed with fruit and spice.
- Quick and easy to make in an air fryer.
- Flexible: non-alcoholic version works with orange juice.
- Perfect for gifting or serving at holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mixed dried fruits (raisins, currants, chopped apricots, cherries) | 1 ½ cups (225g) |
| Brandy or orange juice | ¼ cup (60ml) |
| Unsalted butter, softened | ½ cup (115g) |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup (100g) |
| Large eggs | 2 |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup (125g) |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Ground nutmeg | ½ tsp |
| Ground cloves | ¼ tsp |
| Milk | ¼ cup (60ml) |
Instructions
1. Soak the Fruit
Combine dried fruits with brandy (or orange juice for a non-alcoholic version). Let soak at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight, to plump the fruit and infuse flavor.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer
Set the air fryer to 150°C (300°F).
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light, creamy, and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition for a smooth batter.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
6. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the butter mixture. Add milk and stir until the batter is smooth and lump-free.
7. Add the Soaked Fruit
Gently fold in the soaked fruits along with any leftover soaking liquid to enhance flavor and moisture.
8. Prepare the Cake Pan
Grease a 6-inch round cake pan and line the base with baking paper. Pour in the batter and smooth the top.
9. Bake in the Air Fryer
Place the cake pan into the air fryer basket. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Cool the Cake
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Decorate (Optional)
Brush the top with brandy or finish with marzipan, icing, or festive decorations.
Serving Ideas
- Serve as-is or top with marzipan and fondant icing for a traditional look.
- Pairs wonderfully with tea, coffee, or mulled wine.
- Rich and flavorful: a small slice is often enough for dessert.
Tips & Variations
- Non-alcoholic option: Use orange juice instead of brandy.
- Extra moist cake: Soak the fruit overnight for deeper flavor.
- Spice adjustment: Increase cinnamon or nutmeg slightly for a warmer, more aromatic cake.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other dried fruits?
A: Yes, dried figs, cranberries, or dates work well.
Q: Can I make this in a regular oven?
A: Yes, bake at 150°C (300°F) for 50–60 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, wrap in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Q: Can I make a larger cake?
A: Double the ingredients and use a larger pan, adjusting the baking time accordingly.
Conclusion
This Air Fryer Christmas Cake is a quick and festive way to enjoy a holiday classic. Moist, spiced, and full of rich fruit flavor, it’s perfect for family gatherings or gifting to friends. Decorate as desired, slice, and enjoy the taste of Christmas in every bite.