Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells Jingle all the Way…Christmas is on the way. The true Holiday spirit of Christmas is represented truly and so beautifully in the comforting smell, vapours and aroma of a freshly baked Christmas cake and a warm cup of spiced coffee.
The cozy and oh so emotionally pleasing holiday season is here to remind you to slow down and spend time with your near, dear and loved ones and it is also about enjoying timeless treats that bring comfort and joy. and the feel of family and warmth. One of the unlimited number of treats, there are two classics that have neither ever failed to deliver nor will ever fail to deliver that cozy feeling are the timeless Classic Christmas Cake and an aromatic Cinnamon Latte. These two recipes together create the perfect festive pairing which is not only rich and flavorful but also truly, wonderfully nostalgic.
Classic Christmas Cake Recipe
As per my opinion, using the article “A” is not suitable for the classic Christmas cake and thus i will be using “The” for this nostalgia known as Classic Christmas Cake. This cake is known for its deep flavors, moist texture and the nostalgic fragrant spices. This version is made without alcohol thus making it perfect for the whole family while still keeping the traditional taste intact.
Ingredients:
- 1½ cups mixed dried fruits (Kishmish or raisins, almonds, Khajoor / khajur or chopped dates, dried cherries or as per your family’s preference)
- ½ cup orange juice or apple juice (for soaking dried fruit)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour or Maida
- ½ th teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 th teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder or Dalchini powder (this may be optional)
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg powder or crushed jaiphal
- ½ teaspoon mixed spice or allspice
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted and softened)
- ¾ cup brown sugar or white sugar as per your liking
- 2 white or brown eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (any brand as per preference)
- Zest of 1 orange
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (optional)
Method:
- Soak the dried fruits in orange or apple juice for at least 2 hours. Soaking the dried fruits overnight will yield the best result, so if possible try to do it. This step softens and rehydrates the dried-up fruit and adds natural sweetness.
- Preheat your oven or microwave to 160°C (320°F) and line a cake tin with parchment paper. Traditionally the cake tin should be tin, but rectangular or any other shape will do.
- In a mid sized mixing bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and all spices.
- In a separate bowl do cream the butter and brown or white sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time and keep them mixing well while adding.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and the orange zest.
- After mixing the soaked dried fruits, mix them in a folding action (along with any remaining juice) and nuts.
- Eventually add the dry ingredients and gently mix them until combined well.
- Pour the batter into the parchment paper added tin and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Make sure to not poke the undone cake again and again with the toothpick or the cake will not rise well.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing.
This cake tastes even better the next day or after overnight as the flavors have soaked in and deepened making it perfect for preparing ahead of Christmas celebrations.
Cinnamon Latte Recipe
A smoking aromatic cinnamon latte is the ultimate winter drink which is warm, aromatic and comforting giving it the feeling of home. It is easy to make at home and pairs beautifully with a slice of Classic Christmas cake.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based if you are vegan or lactose intolerant)
- ½ cup freshly brewed coffee or strong espresso coffee
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon powder (Dalchini Powder)
- 1–2 teaspoons brown or white sugar or honey (as per taste)
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of cinnamon or cocoa powder for topping
- Lond Cinnamon sticks
Method:
- Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until warm. Do make sure the milk is not boiling and it is warm.
- Put and keep whisking in cinnamon, sugar and vanilla extract one by one.
- Brew your coffee or espresso and pour it into a mug.
- Add the warm cinnamon milk and keep stirring gently.
- Sprinkle a little cinnamon or cocoa powder on top for extra flavor.
- Decorate it with cinnamon sticks for the extra zing and bling.
This homemade cinnamon latte gives you the famous cafe style feeling in the warmth of your home.
Why This Pairing of Christmas Cake and Cinnamon Latte Works
Christmas is about enjoying family time with warm, cozy, heartfelt food. The rich, smoist, buttery taste of the Christmas cake is a perfect compliment and combination with the warm cinnamon latte which gives it a perfect balance.
The rich texture of the cake is balanced by the creamy smoothness of the drink which makes each bite and every sip so fulfilling and comforting. Just imagine yourself enjoying this classic combination on your sofa sitting alongside your loved ones looking at the Christmas tree and watching your favourite movie or web series and looking at the family photo album, what more could you ask for.
A Holiday Tradition of these Classic Recipes Worth Cherishing
Baking a Christmas cake and making a cinnamon latte isn’t just about making and trying recipes during this cold season but it is about making memories and creating reminiscence. The spices, the butter, the sugar, the dried fruits and aromatic cinnamon all combine together to form the perfect combination for this holiday and give it the best presentation.
This Christmas, let us all sit down, relax, enjoy with the family, share, care, bake, cook and just be together. May everyone rise above their everyday hustles and just live in the moment. With a slice of homemade Christmas cake and a mug of cinnamon latte in hand may the light and bright of Christmas delight everyone’s lives and hearts.