Christmas Pound Cake Recipe

If you’re looking to fill your holiday table with warmth, nostalgia, and a slice of pure comfort, this Christmas Pound Cake is exactly what you need. Combining the rich, buttery texture you expect from a classic pound cake with the delightful sweetness of dates and the satisfying crunch of walnuts, this cake brings that festive spirit right onto your plate. It’s the kind of recipe that invites cozy gatherings, hot cups of tea, and that irresistible aroma that lingers in the kitchen, making every moment feel just a little more special during the holiday season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Christmas Pound Cake lies in its simplicity—just a handful of everyday ingredients that work harmoniously to create a moist, flavorful, and festive treat. Every element contributes something essential to the final cake, from the rich softness provided by butter to the chewy sweetness of dates and the crunch of walnuts that elevate every bite.

• Butter (1 cup, softened): Provides the rich, creamy base that makes this cake moist and tender.
• Flour (1 1/3 cups): The structure-builder, ensuring your cake holds together perfectly with a fine crumb.
• Baking powder (3/4 tsp): Helps the cake rise just enough to stay light without losing its classic pound cake density.
• Sugar (1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and helps with browning for a gorgeous crust.
• Vanilla extract (2 tsp): Infuses the cake with warmth and depth of flavor that feels like home.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• Sweetened condensed milk (3/4 cup): Brings extra moisture and a caramel-like richness that’s absolutely dreamy.
• Eggs (3): Bind ingredients together while contributing to the cake’s tender texture.
• Chopped walnuts (1/4 cup): Offer a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft crumb.
• Chopped dates (1/2 cup): Add natural sweetness and a delightful chew that’s perfect for a holiday flavor twist.

How to Make Christmas Pound Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Dry Ingredients

Start by mixing the flour and baking powder in a bowl and set this aside. This simple combination is your foundation, ensuring that the cake has just the right lift while maintaining the dense, buttery texture that makes a pound cake so beloved.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Salt

In a separate large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, sugar, and salt until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into your batter, helping give the cake a tender bite while intensifying the buttery flavor.

Step 3: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk

Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and mix it thoroughly with your creamed butter mixture. This ingredient is a game-changer; it brings moisture and a luscious caramel undertone that elevates this pound cake beyond the ordinary.

Step 4: Combine with Dry Ingredients

Slowly add your flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until you no longer see any streaks of flour. Over-mixing can make the cake tough, so gentle blending here is key to keeping the crumb tender and soft.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, crack in the eggs one at a time and pour in the vanilla extract, beating well after each addition. These enrich the cake and deepen the flavor, helping to create that classic aroma and smooth texture we all love.

Step 6: Fold in Walnuts and Dates, Then Bake

Finally, carefully fold in the chopped walnuts and dates, making sure they are evenly distributed without breaking down the fruit or nuts. Transfer the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake at 325°F for 75 to 85 minutes. Your Christmas Pound Cake is done when a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, delivering a golden-brown top and a moist interior that’s irresistible.

How to Serve Christmas Pound Cake

Garnishes

Enhance your Christmas Pound Cake with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for a simple yet elegant touch. Fresh cranberries or a sprig of rosemary on the side make for a festive visual contrast that’s sure to impress your guests.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of cinnamon-spiced ice cream to add a creamy component to each bite. For a cozy holiday brunch, serve slices alongside a cup of hot mulled cider or spiced coffee to round out the festive flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative by slicing the cake into thick wedges and placing them on a rustic wooden board mixed with seasonal fruits, nuts, and a variety of cheeses for a unique holiday dessert platter. Alternatively, cut the Christmas Pound Cake into cubes and skewer them with fresh fruit to make vibrant dessert kabobs that are fun for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Christmas Pound Cake tastes fantastic even a day or two after baking. Store leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge up to a week to maintain its moist texture.

Freezing

You can freeze Christmas Pound Cake for longer storage by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and placing it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave to revive that fresh-baked feel. A quick 15-20 seconds in the microwave will soften the cake and bring out the flavors, making it just as delightful as when it first came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I substitute the walnuts with another nut?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds work wonderfully in this recipe and offer a different, but equally delicious, texture and flavor. Just be sure to chop them roughly to maintain that lovely crunch.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or dairy-free margarine. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture might be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Can I use fresh dates instead of dried?

Fresh dates can be used, but they are much softer and have higher moisture content, so they may affect the cake’s texture. If you choose fresh dates, chop them finely and consider reducing any added liquid slightly.

What’s the best way to tell when the cake is done?

The classic test is inserting a thin knife or skewer into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. The surface should be golden brown, and the loaf should pull slightly away from the edges of the pan.

Can I make mini loaves or cupcakes with this recipe?

Yes, this batter is versatile! Just adjust the baking time accordingly—mini loaves may take 30-40 minutes, while cupcakes could be done in about 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them and use the toothpick test for doneness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about a slice of Christmas Pound Cake that brings people together. Whether you bake it for a holiday feast or as a thoughtful gift, its rich flavors and comforting texture never fail to delight. I hope you try this recipe and let it become a cozy tradition in your festive celebrations—you’re going to love every bite!

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