As I placed the last layer of fondant on this beautiful Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake, the sweet aroma of spiced fruits filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cherished family gatherings. This indulgent traybake merges traditional flavors with a contemporary flair, featuring moist cake laden with brandy-soaked fruits that will impress even the most seasoned holiday host. Not only is this dessert visually stunning and easy to slice, making it perfect for sharing, but it’s also a hassle-free way to enjoy a festive treat without the labor of a traditional fruitcake. Imagine how delighted your friends and family will be as they savor this delightful centerpiece—a no-fuss, seasonal dessert that perfectly captures the joy of the holidays. Ready to dive into a slice of comfort and celebration?

Why Is This Fruitcake Traybake Special?

Moist, Rich Goodness: This Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake is a tender triumph, packed with brandy-soaked fruits that bring festive cheer to every slice.

Easy to Share: Unlike traditional fruitcakes, its traybake format makes cutting and serving a breeze, keeping the holiday spirit alive throughout gatherings.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to switch up the dried fruits and add your favorite nuts, making it adaptable to any palate.

Stunning Presentation: With the beautiful marzipan and fondant finish, this dessert not only tastes incredible but also doubles as a show-stopping centerpiece for your holiday table.

Time-Saving Delight: You can easily prepare this traybake ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other festive festivities—check out our how to prepare in advance tips for stress-free entertaining!

Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake Ingredients

For the Cake

Mixed Dried Fruits – Essential for flavor; a mix of raisins, currants, and chopped apricots offers a traditional taste in the Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake.
Brandy – Soaking fruits enhances flavor; for a non-alcoholic option, use apple cider.
Butter – Provides moisture and richness; no substitutes recommended for best results.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth; can substitute with coconut sugar for a unique twist.
Flour – Gives structure to the cake; gluten-free all-purpose flour works as a gluten-free alternative.
Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise; ensure it’s fresh for proper leavening.
Eggs – Act as a binder and provide moisture; use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.

For the Decoration

Marzipan – This decorative layer enhances flavor; it’s optional, so feel free to omit or swap for fondant.
Fondant – Used for decoration; a simple icing glaze can create a rustic finish if desired.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a baking tray by greasing it with butter and lining the base with parchment paper. This ensures that your Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake comes out easily after baking. Have your baking tray ready to go, as you’ll need it soon for the batter.

Step 2: Soak the Dried Fruits
The night before baking, soak your mixed dried fruits—such as raisins, currants, and chopped apricots—in brandy or apple cider. Allow them to absorb the liquid in a covered bowl overnight. This step enhances the flavor of your cake and makes the fruits plump and delicious, which is essential for your Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened butter and brown sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy—about 3 to 5 minutes. This aeration will provide a tender base for your traybake, ensuring each slice is rich and moist with that signature festive taste.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs
Crack three eggs into the creamed butter and sugar mixture, adding each one sequentially. Mix well after each addition until fully incorporated. The eggs are crucial as they bind the ingredients together and add moisture, giving your Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake its delectable texture.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients
Sift together your flour and baking powder to ensure even mixing. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be gentle to avoid overmixing, which can make your cake dense; aim for a smooth batter with no visible flour. This step forms the structure of your traybake, creating that beautiful balance of moistness and fluffiness.

Step 6: Incorporate Soaked Fruits
Now, add the plump, soaked fruits along with any remaining liquid. Gently fold them into the batter until evenly distributed. This ensures that every bite of your Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake is bursting with flavor. Look for a beautiful, colorful mix throughout your batter.

Step 7: Transfer to Baking Tray
Pour the batter into your prepared baking tray, using a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake. Ensure that the mixture fills the tray evenly and that there are no air pockets. This will help your cake cook consistently and make for an attractive finish once removed from the oven.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake during the last 10 minutes for golden-brown edges. The scent of festive spices should fill your kitchen as you await the finished masterpiece!

Step 9: Cool Before Decorating
Once baked, remove your Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake from the oven. Allow it to cool completely in the tray set on a wire rack. This cooling period is essential for setting the structure of the cake, providing the perfect base for your decorating touches of marzipan and fondant, if desired.

Expert Tips for Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake

Plan Ahead: Prepare and soak the dried fruits the night before baking. This way, they’ll fully absorb the brandy, enriching the flavors of your Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your dry ingredients with the wet mixture, fold gently to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing can lead to a heavy texture instead of the delightful lightness you want.
Check Freshness: Make sure your baking powder is fresh! If it’s expired, your cake may not rise properly, resulting in a flat Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake.
Rest for Flavor: Allow your decorated cake to sit for a day or two before serving. This resting period intensifies the flavors, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Proper Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. This will keep it moist and ready to delight your taste buds.

What to Serve with Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake

As you imagine a table adorned with seasonal cheer, these delightful pairings will elevate your holiday experience.

Creamy Whipped Cream: This luscious topping adds a silky smoothness that perfectly balances the rich flavors of the fruitcake.
Velvety Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream melts beautifully over a warm slice, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
Zesty Citrus Salad: A fresh salad bursting with oranges, grapefruits, and a drizzle of honey brightens the fruity notes of the cake while cleansing the palate.
Spiced Berry Compote: A warm, spiced compote made from mixed berries adds a tangy sweetness that complements the dense fruitcake beautifully.
Hot Mulled Wine: This aromatic drink, infused with festive spices, brings a comforting warmth that pairs delightfully with slices of fruitcake.
Gingerbread Cookies: Their spiced crunch offers a nostalgic touch and a delightful texture contrast, making them a perfect accompaniment to your traybake.
Dark Chocolate Truffles: Rich, decadent truffles lend a luxurious finish while enhancing the sweet flavors of the cake with their bittersweet notes.
Roasted Nuts: A mix of walnuts and pecans adds a lovely crunch and a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of the fruitcake.

How to Store and Freeze Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake

Room Temperature: Keep the decorated cake wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer, the traybake can be refrigerated for an extended shelf life. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from absorbing other odors, lasting up to 1 week.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze your Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake without decorations in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before adding any icing or fondant.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, gently microwave individual pieces for about 10-15 seconds. This will restore its moistness and bring out the delightful flavors!

Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake Variations

Customize your Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake for a delightful twist on this holiday classic!

Dried Fruit Swap: Replace dried apricots with figs, dates, or cranberries for unique flavor combinations. Each option brings its own sweetness and warmth to the cake.
Flavored Liquor: Experiment with different liquors like rum or bourbon for soaking the fruits to amplify the cake’s richness. A splash of spiced rum especially adds a cozy holiday vibe!
Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sweet fruits. Just mix them gently into the batter before baking.
Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flax eggs to create a vegan version of this beloved traybake. It’s equally moist and delicious, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice of happiness!
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour to make a gluten-free fruitcake that still packs the festive flavor you love. Everyone at the table can savor this delicious treat!
Spice It Up: Add spices like nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for an extra layer of warmth and holiday spirit. Just a pinch can transform the flavor profile beautifully.
Simple Icing Glaze: Instead of fondant, drizzle a simple icing glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the cooled traybake. It adds a sweet, zingy touch to every slice!
Fruit Garnish: Sprinkle chopped candied fruits or additional dried fruits on top right before serving for a colorful and inviting presentation. This adds a lovely festive touch that delights the eye!

Feel free to explore these variations and mix and match to create your perfect version of this heartwarming Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake. It’s all about making it your own! Looking for more inspiration? Check out our delicious serving suggestions for this traybake and elevate your festive table!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing this Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake in advance is a smart move for busy home cooks! You can soak the mixed dried fruits in brandy (or apple cider) up to 24 hours ahead of time to allow the flavors to deepen, which results in a more flavorful cake. Additionally, you can mix the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and pour the prepared batter into the tray—this will save time during the holiday rush! To maintain quality, be sure to cover the mixture tightly to prevent drying out. Once baked, allow the cake to cool before decorating; it will be just as delicious as when freshly made!

Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake Recipe FAQs

What type of dried fruits should I use?
For the best flavor in your Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake, use a blend of raisins, currants, and finely chopped apricots. This classic mix infuses the cake with sweetness and adds a delightful texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, feel free to substitute or mix in figs, dates, or cranberries for a unique twist!

How should I store the traybake once it’s decorated?
To keep your Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay moist and flavorful for up to 5 days. Avoid refrigerating it unless necessary, as the fridge can dry out your cake.

Can I freeze the Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake?
Absolutely! For long-term storage, the traybake can be frozen without decorations for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature. Once defrosted, you can add marzipan and fondant for a festive touch!

What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter after adding the flour. To avoid this in the future, mix the dry ingredients with the wet mixture gently until just combined. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as stale leavening agents can lead to a flat cake.

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! You can easily adapt the Festive Christmas Fruitcake Traybake for dietary preferences. For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour. If you’re making it vegan, replace eggs with a flax egg (mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens). Enjoy the celebrations without worry!