To make a delicious Christmas cake, it is common to add a small amount of alcohol to enhance its flavor and to help preserve it. The amount of alcohol you put in a Christmas cake can vary depending on personal preference and the recipe you are using. Traditionally, whiskey, rum, or brandy are the preferred choices, but you can also use non-alcoholic alternatives such as apple juice or orange juice.
Typically, a Christmas cake recipe would call for around 30ml or 2 tablespoons of alcohol to be poured over the warm surface of the cake fresh from the oven. This step is known as “feeding” the cake and is important for infusing it with a rich, boozy flavor. The warm cake absorbs the alcohol, creating a moist and fragrant result.
If you prefer a stronger alcohol flavor, you can increase the amount slightly, but be cautious not to overpower the other flavors in the cake. It’s important to remember that the alcohol content will diminish slightly as the cake matures over time.
After the cake has been fed with alcohol, it should be allowed to cool completely. Once cooled, it is advisable to remove the baking paper to prevent it from sticking to the cake. Carefully wrap the cake in a layer of parchment paper or aluminum foil, ensuring it is fully covered to retain moisture.
To achieve the best results, the wrapped cake should be stored in a cool place for at least two weeks. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and develop, resulting in a more delicious and moist cake. Some people even prefer to feed the cake with additional alcohol during this storage time, usually once a week, to further enhance the taste.
It’s worth noting that the alcohol in the cake does not completely evaporate during baking, so it’s important to consider the preferences and dietary restrictions of those who will be consuming the cake. If you are serving the cake to children or individuals who abstain from alcohol, substituting with apple juice or orange juice is a great alternative.
The amount of alcohol you put in a Christmas cake can vary, but a general guideline is around 30ml or 2 tablespoons. This can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. Feeding the cake with alcohol, allowing it to cool, and storing it in a cool place for a couple of weeks will result in a delicious, moist, and flavorful Christmas cake that is sure to impress your family and friends during the holiday season.