Delicious Christmas Beer Cake Recipe for Beer Lovers
As the festive season draws near, there is nothing quite like the smell of a freshly-baked Christmas cake to put us in the holiday mood. But why settle for a traditional fruit cake when you can try something different and exciting? I present to you, my Christmas Beer Cake recipe – a twist on the classic fruitcake that will delight your taste buds and bring cheer to your holiday celebrations.
This recipe takes inspiration from the traditional fruitcake and infuses it with the rich, malty flavors of beer. Imagine biting into a deliciously moist cake that’s bursting with cinnamon-spiced goodness, chunks of walnuts, and tantalizing notes of vanilla. The sour cream and eggs create a soft crumb that pairs perfectly with the spongy texture of this beer cake. And thanks to the addition of Newcastle Brown Ale or ginger beer, you can expect an enticingly complex flavor profile that is both zesty and aromatic.
But don’t take my word for it – this recipe has been tried and tested by many, earning rave reviews from all who have tasted it. So dust off your apron, preheat your ovens, and get ready to bake up a scrumptious treat that will leave everyone clamoring for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Picture this: it’s Christmas morning, and the snow is falling gently outside. You’re surrounded by your loved ones, and the smell of cinnamon and vanilla is wafting through the air. What could make this moment even better? A slice of Christmas Beer Cake, that’s what.
This beer cake recipe is like no other Christmas cake you’ve ever had before. It’s moist, slightly boozy, and filled with delicious walnuts and spices that will have you coming back for more. The addition of beer in the batter may sound strange at first, but trust me when I say it adds a unique flavor that you won’t be able to get enough of.
This recipe is perfect for those who love to experiment in the kitchen and want to try something new this holiday season. It’s not your average fruitcake or gingerbread house – it’s a combination of flavors that will excite your palate and leave you feeling satisfied.
And let’s not forget about how easy this recipe is to make. With just a few simple ingredients (all of which can be found at your local grocery store), you’ll have a delicious cake ready to go in no time.
But don’t just take my word for it – give this recipe a try and see for yourself why you’ll love it. Whether you’re making it for your family on Christmas morning or bringing it as a dessert to a holiday party, this Christmas Beer Cake is sure to impress.
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need to make this Christmas Beer Cake Recipe:
- Walnuts, chopped
- Cinnamon
- Sugar
- Vanilla
- Beer (such as Newcastle Brown Ale or Ginger Beer)
- Sour cream
- Eggs
- Butter or margarine
- Salt
- Baking soda
- Baking powder
- All-purpose flour
You will also need some Booze for this cake. Rum, brandy, or whisky works best. You can experiment with different kinds of spices like citrus flavours, cloves or nutmeg to add extra flavor to the cake.
Below is the list of all ingredients that you would need to make this Christmas Cake Recipe.
The Recipe How-To
Step One: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Make sure you are preheating your oven while preparing your cake batter.
Step Two: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat 2 sticks butter or margarine together with 1 1/2 cups of sugar until it becomes creamy. Add in 3 large eggs to the mixture and beat well.
Step Three: Mix The Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together 2 1/2 cups flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt until everything is well combined.
Add the flour mixture to the butter-sugar-egg mixture and mix well. Then, add in 1 cup of your choice of beer to the mixture as well as 1 cup of sour cream, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Mix all ingredients well to ensure that they are well combined.
Finally, add in chopped nuts like walnuts and spices such as cinnamon for added flavor.
Note: If you want to make this recipe without beer, substitute it by adding 1 cup of root beer, ginger beer or Newcastle brown ale.
Step Four: Bake The Cake
Pour the batter into a greased pan, ensuring that there is enough space for it to rise during cooking. Place it in the pre-heated oven and bake for approximately an hour or until cooked fully. You can check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean then the cake is done.
Step Five: Add Toppings (Optional)
Once the cake has finished baking, let it cool on a wire rack before serving or topping it with icing or whipped cream for a little extra flair.
Enjoy this delicious Christmas Beer Cake Recipe!
Substitutions and Variations
As a barista, I know that sometimes it’s difficult to find all the ingredients necessary for a recipe. Fear not, as there are some substitutions and variations to this Christmas Beer Cake recipe that will work just as well.
One of the key ingredients in this cake is beer, which gives it a unique flavor. However, if you’re not a fan of beer, you can use rum, brandy or whisky instead. These liquors add a warmth and nuance that complements the cake perfectly. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra depth.
For those who prefer lighter alcohol flavors, ginger beer or root beer float can be used as an excellent substitute. These non-alcoholic choices still offer great taste without overpowering other flavors in the recipe.
If you’re looking for an alternative to walnuts or want to add other texture varieties to the cake, pecans or almonds could be the perfect match for you. They provide a different kind of crunch with their slightly sweet flavors.
If you have gluten sensitivity or intolerance, swap out regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour. The resulting cake will be just as delicious; however, keep in mind that some gluten-free flours may have different requirements (more liquid). Make sure you read instructions and recipes carefully.
Finally, if you’re looking for a festive touch of creativity for your Christmas cake, try making it into the shape of a tree by cutting it into slices and rearranging them on the serving tray before frosting them. With a few frosting adornments and red-and-green sprinkles to decorate, you’ll have a beautiful Christmas Tree Cake that’s ready for gifting and sharing!
No matter how you need to switch things up with this Christmas beer cake recipe, these substitutions and variations will provide new ways to enhance your sweet tooth cravings while keeping true to the spirit of the season.
Serving and Pairing
As you look at the beautifully crafted Christmas beer cake, it’s important to remember that serving and pairing plays a major role in enhancing the taste and presentation of this dessert.
One popular serving idea is to pair this cake with a hearty whipped cream made with some additional cinnamon for that added festive flavor. Another delightful pairing option is vanilla ice cream or sorbet, which will balance out the richness of the cake perfectly.
When it comes to drinks, the best choice to complement this cake would be a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate. To take things up a notch, you could also serve it along with some bourbon or an Irish coffee.
Due to its rich flavors and texture, the Christmas beer cake works well as a standalone dessert, meaning it’s perfect for holiday gatherings or to be served in front of the fireplace on chilly winter nights.
Overall, serving and pairing can truly elevate this dessert into a delightful experience, so explore different options and find what works best for you and your loved ones.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the great things about this Christmas Beer Cake is that it can be made ahead of time, which is a life-saver during the hectic holiday season. If you know you have guests coming over or need to bring something to a party, whip up this cake a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
In terms of storing options, this cake keeps well in the fridge or freezer too. If you plan on storing it for longer than four days, cut the cake into slices and wrap each slice individually in parchment paper before placing them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw the slices at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm up.
When reheating for serving, I highly recommend warming it up slightly in the oven rather than the microwave. This will help restore some of its original moisture and prevent any sogginess. To do so, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and wrap slices or the entire cake in foil to retain moisture before placing it on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and enjoy!
This Christmas Beer Cake is an all-time favorite recipe that can bring warmth and joy to any holiday gathering. With easy make-ahead options, you can focus on spending time with your family and friends instead of worrying about last-minute preparations. If stored properly, this cake will still taste amazing even after several days or weeks.
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to baking, there are often small details that can make all the difference in achieving the perfect result. Here are some tips to help ensure that you make the best Christmas Beer Cake:
Firstly, take your time when measuring your ingredients. It’s essential to be as accurate as possible when it comes to baking cakes. Too much flour or not enough sugar can significantly affect the cake’s final texture and flavor.
Secondly, make sure that all of your ingredients are at room temperature before you begin mixing them together. This will help everything blend well and create a smooth, even batter.
Thirdly, don’t skip any steps! Every step of this recipe is important and contributes to the cake’s overall taste and texture. Be patient and follow each instruction carefully.
Fourthly, mix your dry ingredients thoroughly before adding them to your wet ingredients. You don’t want any lumps or clumps in your batter, so ensure everything is evenly distributed before combining.
Fifthly, fold in the fruit and nuts gently so that they don’t sink to the bottom of the cake while baking.
Another tip is to use a toothpick or cake tester to check if the cake is fully cooked. Poke it into the center of the cake – if it comes out clean, then it’s done!
Lastly, let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before serving or storing it. Cutting into a hot cake can cause it to crumble or become dry.
By following these tips, you’re sure to end up with an irresistibly delicious Christmas Beer Cake that’s full of festive flavors and perfect for sharing with loved ones during this holiday season.
FAQ
Now that we have covered everything you need to know to make the perfect Christmas Beer Cake, let’s take a look at some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the recipe. Whether you’re an experienced baker or this is your first time making a cake, these answers will address any concerns you may have and help you achieve delicious results. So let’s dive into it and get your questions answered!
How many cans of beer do you need to make a beer cake?
To create a unique and visually appealing serving display for your favourite beer, you will need a pack of beer (opt for 12 cans or bottles, or go for an 18-24 pack if you’re feeling daring!), thick and thin ribbon in a colour of your choice, a pair of scissors, and either glue or tape. Additionally, you will need a platter to serve the beer on and two bristle boards that you can cut into round shapes with diameters of 3″, 6″, and 9″.
What alcohol is best for Christmas cake?
Looking to add a bit of spice or citrus to your coffee? Consider trying out different liqueurs such as rum, brandy, or whisky, or opt for a fruity twist with cherry brandy, amaretto, or orange liqueur. These options would all work splendidly in your coffee and add a unique twist to your daily cup.
What does beer do to a cake?
When it comes to baking, adding beer to the mix can be a game changer. Thanks to its carbonation, it can help leaven baked goods, giving them a light and fluffy texture. For best results, start with using porters and stouts in your recipes if you’re new to the world of baking with beer. Their rich and malty flavors are perfect for complementing a variety of baked treats. So don’t be afraid to experiment and see how beer can enhance your next batch of bread or cake!
How much alcohol do you put in a Christmas cake?
For the initial step, we begin by pouring 30ml or 2 tablespoons of your preferred liquor such as whiskey, rum, or brandy on the surface of a freshly baked cake while it’s still warm. If you prefer a non-alcoholic alternative, apple juice or orange juice can also be used. This step is crucial as it infuses the cake with a rich flavor. After that, let the cake cool entirely and remove the baking paper. Then, wrap it carefully and store it in a cold place for 2 weeks to enhance its taste. This step is called the First Feed and is an essential process in the cake-making procedure.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Christmas Beer Cake recipe is a surefire way to impress your guests and spread some holiday cheer. The combination of spices, citrus flavors, and alcohol creates a unique and delicious cake that is perfect for any celebration. By using different types of beer, such as Newcastle Brown Ale or ginger beer, you can even create a new twist on the classic Christmas cake.
Whether you’re making a tree-shaped cake, boiled fruit cake or a root beer float cake – this recipe will be a hit at any gathering. Don’t let anyone tell you that fruitcake is boring or old-fashioned – this updated version will prove them wrong.
In addition to being a tasty treat, this recipe is also versatile enough to accommodate different dietary needs. With gluten-free options available and substitutions easily made (such as using margarine instead of butter), there’s no reason why everyone can’t enjoy this delicious cake.
So what are you waiting for? Grab your apron and preheat that oven- it’s time to get baking! With the help of these detailed instructions, tips, and recommendations, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect Christmas Beer Cake that your loved ones will remember for years to come. Trust me, it’s worth the effort- after all, there’s nothing quite like seeing the joy on people’s faces when they take that first bite.
Christmas Beer Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 cups flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup butter or 3/4 cup margarine, softened
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups sour cream
- 1/2 cup beer
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
Filling And Topping
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2/3 cup walnuts, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°.
- Grease 10-inch tube pan.
- Sift flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt into large mixing bowl.
- Cream together in separate bowl butter and sugar. Add eggs, sour cream, beer and vanilla. Stir vigorously approximately two minutes.
- Add to dry ingredients and mix until all ingredients are well blended.
- In a separate bowl, mix sugar, cinnamon and walnut chips.
- Spoon one-third of cake batter into greased 10-inch tube pan. Sprinkle on one-third of filling. Spoon on another third of cake batter and again sprinkle on a third of filling. Spoon on remaining third of batter and sprinkle remainder of cinnamon mixture on top.
- Bake 45 to 50 minutes or until browned on top and cake tester comes out clean.
Your own notes
Nutrition
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Tony is an experienced chef, crafting delicious comfort food. He’s also an influential blogger, providing helpful recipes and tips on his website, taosburgersandbeer.com. As an expert in his field, he offers valuable advice to readers. His knowledge and creative recipes make it easy to cook exciting, flavorful dishes.