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Traditional Christmas Cake Bars: A Festive Treat from Home

Christmas Cake Bars
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These Christmas Cake Bars are a festive twist on the classic holiday fruitcake. Packed with dried fruits, warm spices, and a rich, buttery texture, they are perfect for holiday gatherings, gifting, or enjoying with a cup of tea!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake Bars:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup mixed dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, chopped apricots)
  • ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

For the Glaze (Optional):

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk or orange juice
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.

  • Prepare the Batter:

    • In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
    • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

  • Combine Dry Ingredients:

    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

  • Fold in Fruits and Nuts:

    • Stir in the mixed dried fruit and chopped nuts until evenly distributed in the batter.

  • Bake the Cake Bars:

    • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
    • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
    • Let cool completely in the pan before slicing.

  • Prepare the Glaze (Optional):

    • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or orange juice), and vanilla extract until smooth.
    • Drizzle over the cooled cake bars for extra sweetness.

  • Serve:

    • Cut into squares or bars and enjoy your festive treat!

Notes

  • Fruit Options: You can customize the dried fruit mix based on your preference. Candied cherries, currants, or chopped dates work well in this recipe.
  • Nut Substitutions: If you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free version, you can omit the nuts or replace them with extra dried fruit.
  • Spice Variations: For extra warmth, add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves. A bit of orange or lemon zest can also enhance the festive flavors.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Serving Ideas: These bars pair well with a cup of tea, coffee, or warm spiced cider. They also make a great edible gift during the holiday season!
  • Glaze Alternative: Instead of a glaze, you can dust the bars with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: Traditional Christmas Cake Bars

Find it online: https://sofyarecipes.com/best-traditional-christmas-cake-bars-2024/