5 Essential Tips for Perfecting the Irresistible Christmas Spiced Loaf Cake (Søsterkage)

What is Søsterkage?

Søsterkage, or Sister Cake, is a traditional Danish loaf cake known for its unique blend of spices and chewy raisins, making it a cozy treat during the colder months. Often served during Christmas, this cake captures the essence of holiday gatherings with its inviting aroma filling the kitchen.

This cake is the perfect complement to a hot beverage, whether it’s coffee, tea, or gløgg, a spiced mulled wine popular in Scandinavian countries. The combination of warm spices and citrus creates a symphony of flavors that evokes the holiday spirit. For more information visit the following site.

Why Christmas Spiced Loaf Cake is a Holiday Classic ?

Spiced cakes have been a staple of Christmas traditions for centuries. The use of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves dates back to medieval Europe when these flavors were considered luxurious and reserved for special occasions. Unlike heavy fruitcakes, a Christmas Spiced Loaf Cake is lighter, softer, and incredibly flavorful—making it the perfect holiday treat for all ages. This cake stands out because:

• It’s easy to bake and requires simple pantry staples.
• The blend of spices gives it a distinct festive aroma.
• It pairs beautifully with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.

For those curious about the history of holiday spices and baking traditions, this comprehensive guide on Christmas baking provides great insights into the origins of spiced cakes.

Christmas Spiced Loaf Cake with Raisins and Orange (Søsterkage)

Print Recipe

Print Recipe

This traditional Danish Søsterkage is a wonderfully spiced loaf cake, perfect for the holiday season. It’s filled with warm cinnamon, cardamom, juicy raisins, and zesty orange, making every bite a festive delight.

• Author: admin
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients

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For the Cake:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk
• ¼ cup (60ml) fresh orange juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• ½ cup (75g) raisins

For Topping (Optional):

• ¼ cup (30g) chopped almonds or walnuts
• 1 tablespoon pearl sugar (or coarse sugar)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a loaf pan (approximately 9×5 inches) with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, spices (cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves), and salt. This mixture will ensure that your spices are evenly distributed throughout the cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Orange

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then add the orange zest and juice, mixing thoroughly. The zest will add vibrant flavor, while the juice will keep the cake moist.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk until you achieve a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the soaked raisins.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Avoid opening the oven door too early, as this can cause the cake to sink.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8-10 slices
• Calories: 280 kcal per slice

Serving Suggestions

Søsterkage is delightful on its own, but you can enhance your serving experience with a few suggestions:

• Pair with Beverages: Enjoy with coffee or tea, or for a festive touch, serve with a glass of gløgg.
• Spread Options: Consider spreading a thin layer of butter or cream cheese for added richness.
• Fruits and Nuts: Serve with a side of fresh seasonal fruits or a handful of nuts for a balanced snack.
• Storage: The cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week and it often tastes better after a day or two, as the flavors meld together.

Variations and Tips

While the classic Søsterkage recipe is delicious, sometimes it’s fun to experiment!

• Nut Variations: Add chopped walnuts or almonds for a crunchy texture. Toast them beforehand to enhance their flavor.
• Alternative Dried Fruits: Swap raisins for dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a twist on the traditional recipe.
• Spice Adjustments: Customize the spice blend according to your preference; brown ginger or allspice can be great additions.

Final Thoughts

A Christmas Spiced Loaf Cake is the perfect blend of warm spices, rich flavors, and moist texture. Whether you serve it with tea, coffee, or as a holiday gift, it’s sure to be a hit!

Baking this cake is an experience that brings warmth to your home and holiday traditions. Try this easy yet elegant holiday recipe, and let us know how it turns out!