If you are dreaming of a beautifully festive treat that captures all the magic of the holidays, this Winter Cake – Christmas Cake is your go-to indulgence. Picture layers of tender almond biscuit and moist white cake, enveloped by luscious buttercream and vibrant raspberry filling, all finished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and seasonal decorations that sing Christmas cheer. This cake is a true sensation, marrying the comforting warmth of winter spices with the bright tartness of fresh berries, making every bite an unforgettable celebration of flavor and tradition.

Winter Cake - Christmas Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may seem straightforward, but each plays a crucial role in creating the Winter Cake – Christmas Cake’s rich texture and layered flavors. From the ground almonds adding a delicate nuttiness to the fresh berries brightening up the filling, it’s a symphony of simple elements working in perfect harmony.

Butter (chilled, 55g): Provides a flaky, tender texture in the almond biscuit layer.
Ground almonds (50g): Adds a moist, nutty depth that pairs beautifully with the cake’s lightness.
Sugar (15g for biscuit, 250g divided for cake and filling): Sweetens the layers and balances tartness of the berries.
All-purpose flour (60g for biscuit): Lightens the biscuit structure, giving it perfect crumble.
Salt (1g and 3g in different parts): Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
Ice cold water (15ml): Helps bring the almond biscuit dough together without melting the butter.
Cake flour (290g): Ensures the cake layers remain tender and soft.
Baking powder (12g): Gives the cake its lovely lift and fluffiness.
Almond extract (7g): Infuses the cake with a light, fragrant note that echoes the biscuit layer.
Unsalted butter (room temperature, 170g + 300g): The foundation for both moist cake layers and smooth, rich frosting.
Whole milk (240ml): Adds moisture, giving the cake crumb a tender crumb.
Egg whites (150g): Whipped to provide airy lift and lightness in the white cake layers.
Fresh or frozen raspberries (140g): Adds vibrant color and natural tartness to the filling.
Fresh or frozen red currants (60g): Offers a bright, jewel-like pop of flavor inside and atop the cake.
Lemon juice (15ml): Balances the berries’ sweetness and brightens the filling.
Sweetened condensed milk (397g): Creates a delectably creamy, rich buttercream frosting.
Vanilla extract (5g): Adds a warm, inviting aroma to the frosting.
Decorative elements (fresh raspberries, red currants, cinnamon sticks, fresh rosemary): Transform the cake into a winter wonderland centerpiece.
Powdered sugar and red gel food coloring: For that magical snowy finish and festive touches.

How to Make Winter Cake – Christmas Cake

Step 1: Preparing the Almond Biscuit Dough

Begin by combining flour, sugar, ground almonds, and salt in a bowl. Cut in the chilled butter until it resembles coarse crumbs, then stir in ice cold water just until the dough comes together. Shape into a disc, wrap tightly, and chill for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Rolling and Baking the Biscuit

Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment to about 8 ½ inches in diameter, then use an 8-inch ring to cut a perfect circle. Refrigerate the cut dough again for 30 minutes to prevent shrinking. Prick the surface with a fork, then bake at 350F (180C) for 15 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool completely.

Step 3: Making the White Cake Layers

Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans. Whisk together cake flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream butter with sugar until fluffy, then blend in almond extract. Alternately add milk and flour mix until smooth. Whip egg whites with sugar until stiff peaks form, then fold gently into the batter. Divide evenly into pans and bake for 20-25 minutes. Cool fully before assembling.

Step 4: Preparing the Raspberry and Red Currant Filling

Combine raspberries, red currants, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil while stirring, then simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes. Strain out the seeds for a smooth filling. Let cool before use to avoid melting the frosting.

Step 5: Whipping up the Sweetened Condensed Buttercream

With butter at room temperature, beat until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract. Gradually add sweetened condensed milk in thirds, beating after each addition to create a creamy, luscious buttercream ready to coat and fill your cake layers.

Step 6: Assembling the Winter Cake – Christmas Cake

Place the baked almond biscuit on a serving platter and spread a thin layer of buttercream. Top with one cake layer, then generously spread the raspberry filling. Pipe a buttercream border around this filling to keep it in place, then add the second cake layer. Cover the entire cake in a thin crumb coat and chill for half an hour, then frost the cake completely for a smooth finish. Refrigerate to set thoroughly.

Step 7: Decorating the Cake

Dip a brush in red gel food coloring and paint the underside of the cake for a subtle, festive blush. Pipe decorative frosting borders around the base using a small plain tip. Finish by arranging fresh raspberries, red currants, cinnamon sticks, and sprigs of rosemary on top for a stunning display. Dust with powdered sugar to mimic fresh snow and capture that quintessential Winter Cake – Christmas Cake spirit!

How to Serve Winter Cake – Christmas Cake

Garnishes

Fresh berries and aromatic winter herbs like rosemary not only add eye-catching beauty but also elevate each bite with fresh, vibrant notes. Cinnamon sticks enhance the seasonal appeal and add a subtle warm spice aroma that invites guests to dive in.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a smooth vanilla custard on the side, balancing its richness. A cup of spiced mulled wine or freshly brewed coffee completes a cozy holiday gathering perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving individual slices on rustic wooden boards garnished with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a small sprig of fresh rosemary. For a party, mini versions of this Winter Cake – Christmas Cake can be presented in clear boxes tied with festive ribbons, making a heartfelt edible gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled and chilled, the Winter Cake – Christmas Cake can be kept in the refrigerator, tightly covered, for up to 5 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the buttercream firm, making for easy slicing at any time.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, slice the cake first and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Frozen slices will maintain their flavor and texture for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to enjoy its full charm.

Reheating

Reheating isn’t typically recommended since the cake is best enjoyed chilled, but if serving at room temperature, simply let it sit out for 20-30 minutes to soften slightly. This enhances the buttercream’s silkiness and the cake’s tenderness without warming it too much.

FAQs

Can I use frozen berries for the filling?

Absolutely! Frozen raspberries and red currants work wonderfully. Just thaw and drain them well to avoid excess liquid, then proceed with the recipe as usual for a fresh-tasting filling.

Is there a way to make this cake nut-free?

Yes, to make a nut-free version, you can substitute the ground almonds in the biscuit with extra flour and omit the almond extract, or replace it with vanilla. The cake layers can remain the same but keep an eye on texture adjustments.

How far ahead can I assemble the cake?

This cake actually benefits from some resting time. You can assemble it up to 24 hours before serving and keep it refrigerated, allowing flavors to meld beautifully and the buttercream to set perfectly.

What if I don’t have red gel food coloring?

You can skip the coloring or use a natural alternative like beet juice in small amounts for a subtle tinge. The fresh berries and powdered sugar for decoration will still give your Winter Cake – Christmas Cake a festive look.

Can I make this cake vegan?

It would require several substitutions such as plant-based butter, egg replacers, and a dairy-free milk alternative. The texture and flavor will shift somewhat, but with some tweaks, you can create a lovely vegan-friendly version.

Final Thoughts

This Winter Cake – Christmas Cake is truly a showstopper that brings festive joy with every slice. Easy enough to prepare but impressive enough to wow your friends and family, it’s a seasonal treasure that’s bound to become a beloved holiday tradition. So grab your apron and dive into this delicious winter wonder of a cake!