Nigella Traditional Christmas Cake Recipe

July 07, 2023 Post a Comment

Yule Log Cake Recipe [Bûche de Noël] Family Food Garden from www.familyfoodgarden.com

Ingredients

1 lb (455 g) currants
1 lb (455 g) sultanas
1 lb (455 g) raisins
10 oz (285 g) glacé cherries
1 lb (455 g) soft dark brown sugar
1 lb (455 g) butter
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon allspice
1 teaspoon ground cloves
8 oz (225 g) ground almonds
6 tablespoons brandy
1 lb (455 g) plain flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
6 eggs
Grated zest of 1 lemon
Grated zest of 1 orange
2 tablespoons apricot jam
1 teaspoon black treacle

Instructions

1. Grease and line a 10-inch (25 cm) round cake tin with baking parchment.
2. Put the currants, sultanas, raisins, cherries, brown sugar, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, cloves, ground almonds, and brandy into a large bowl. Stir everything together, then cover with a tea towel and leave overnight.
3. Preheat the oven to 140°C (275°F).
4. Sift the flour and baking powder into the bowl, then beat in the eggs, lemon and orange zest, apricot jam, and treacle.
5. Put the mixture into the tin and level the top. Bake for 3–3½ hours or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Cover the top of the cake with foil if it starts to get too dark.
6. Leave the cake to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
7. When the cake is cold, wrap it in greaseproof paper and store in an airtight container.

Nutrition

This cake is a true festive treat, made with currants, sultanas, raisins, cherries, and ground almonds, combined with spices and brandy. This generous cake contains a whopping 1,296 calories and 68.5g of fat per slice, so it should be enjoyed as an occasional treat. It is also high in sugar and saturated fat, so should be enjoyed in moderation.

Tips and Variations

This cake will keep for up to six weeks if stored correctly, so you can make it well in advance of the festive season. You can also make it up to three months ahead and freeze it - just wrap it in baking parchment, then in foil, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, just defrost and enjoy!
You can also use brandy or rum instead of the brandy if you prefer. You can also add some mixed peel to the cake, if you like.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is perfect served with a dollop of brandy butter, or a spoonful of clotted cream. You can also serve it with a drizzle of cream or a scoop of ice cream. For a special occasion, why not try serving the cake with a glass of sherry or port?

Conclusion

Nigella Lawson’s traditional Christmas cake recipe is a classic festive treat. It’s made with a mix of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, and is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. With a little planning, you can make this cake well in advance, and it will keep for up to six weeks if stored correctly. So why not give it a go this Christmas?