Christmas Food and Drink: Bake Joy with 8 Easy Steps!

Name: Christmas Food and Drink: Bake Joy with 8 Easy Steps!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups of flour; 1 cup of sugar; 1/2 cup of butter; 2 eggs; 1 cup of milk; 1 tablespoon of baking powder; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon of salt; 1 cup of chopped nuts; 1 cup of dried fruit

June 2, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s something truly magical about the holiday season, isn’t there? The air is filled with the scent of spices and sweet treats, and kitchens come alive with laughter and love as families gather to whip up festive dishes. I can’t help but smile when I think about my own holiday cooking experiences—like the time I accidentally added way too much cinnamon to my grandma’s famous pie, and instead of a disaster, it turned into a spicy surprise that everyone loved! That’s the beauty of Christmas food and drink; it’s all about sharing joy, creating memories, and maybe even a few happy accidents along the way.

This simple and delicious recipe is a perfect addition to your holiday table. It’s one of those dishes that everyone enjoys, and trust me, it’s so easy to whip up! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out in the kitchen, I promise you can make this festive dessert without a hitch. So, grab your apron, gather your loved ones, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of holiday cooking together!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful festive dessert. I promise, it’s all pretty straightforward! Just grab these ingredients and we’ll be on our way to baking up something special.

2 cups of flour: All-purpose flour works best for this recipe. It gives the structure we need for a fluffy texture.
1 cup of sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps with that lovely golden color.
1/2 cup of butter: Use unsalted butter, softened to room temperature for easy mixing. It’s the secret to a rich flavor!
2 eggs: Large eggs are perfect; they help bind everything together and add moisture.
1 cup of milk: Whole milk or any milk you prefer will do just fine. It keeps the batter nice and creamy.
1 tablespoon of baking powder: This is our leavening agent, so we can achieve that lovely rise!
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract adds a warm, inviting flavor that screams holiday cheer!
1/2 teaspoon of salt: A little salt enhances all the sweet flavors, so don’t skip this step!
1 cup of chopped nuts: I love using walnuts or pecans, but feel free to use your favorite nuts for added crunch!
1 cup of dried fruit: Raisins, cranberries, or apricots work beautifully here. A mix can add even more festive flavor!

Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results. Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, we can move on to the fun part—preparing this delicious dish!

How to Prepare Instructions

Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this delightful dish! I’ll walk you through each step so you can bake with confidence. Just follow along, and you’ll have a scrumptious festive dessert in no time!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your dish bakes evenly from the start. No one wants a burnt outside and a gooey inside, right? So, let that oven warm up while we prepare everything else!

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Next, grab a large mixing bowl and add your softened butter and sugar. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is key to getting that lovely texture we want! Creaming incorporates air into the batter, which helps it rise beautifully in the oven. Trust me, your elbow grease will pay off!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Now it’s time to add the eggs and vanilla extract. Crack in those two large eggs and pour in the vanilla. Mix it all together until it’s well combined. The eggs add moisture and richness, while the vanilla brings that comforting holiday flavor we all love. Don’t skimp on the mixing—this is where all those flavors start to blend!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial because it ensures that your leavening agent (the baking powder) is evenly distributed. No one wants a clump of baking powder in their slice! Just give it a good mix until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, we’ll bring the wet and dry together. I like to alternate adding the dry ingredients and the milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry. So, add a bit of the dry mix, then pour in some milk—mixing gently after each addition. This method helps prevent overmixing, which can make your dessert tough. Just mix until everything is combined and no dry bits remain!

Step 6: Fold in Nuts and Dried Fruit

Time to add that crunch and sweetness! Gently fold in your chopped nuts and dried fruit using a spatula. Folding is all about being gentle; we want to keep the air we’ve incorporated during the mixing. I always go for a mix of dried fruits because it adds a wonderful burst of flavor and color to the dish!

Step 7: Pour Batter into Baking Pan

Now, grab your greased baking pan (I usually use a 9×13-inch pan) and pour in the batter. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. This ensures that it bakes uniformly. Oh, and be sure to grease the pan well—nobody likes a stuck dessert!

Step 8: Bake the Dish

Pop your pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, you’re good to go! The smell will be absolutely heavenly, so be ready for that sweet aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Once it’s baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling time is important because it allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to cut into squares when you’re ready to serve. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks will find this recipe a breeze to follow!
Festive Flavors: The combination of nuts and dried fruits creates a delightful mix of flavors that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season.
Perfect for Gatherings: This recipe yields 8 generous servings, making it an ideal dessert to share at family gatherings, holiday parties, or cozy get-togethers with friends.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite nuts or dried fruits to make it your own—there’s really no wrong way to do it!
Memorable Treat: This dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your holiday repertoire, bringing warmth and joy to every celebration.

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all set to create this festive dessert, let me share some of my favorite tips to ensure everything turns out just right. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a big difference!

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start. This helps everything mix together smoothly and creates a better texture. If you forget to take them out ahead of time, just pop the eggs in warm water for a few minutes and microwave the butter for 10 seconds to soften it.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can make the batter tough, which we definitely don’t want! A few lumps are totally fine.
Check Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can be tricky! If you have an oven thermometer, use it to ensure it’s accurate. Baking times can vary based on your oven, so keep an eye on it! If your oven runs hot, you might need to adjust the temperature down a bit.
Use Parchment Paper: If you’re worried about your dessert sticking to the pan, line it with parchment paper. It makes removing the baked dish a breeze and keeps your cleanup minimal!
Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an extra layer of holiday flavor. It’s a small addition that can really elevate your dish.
Let It Cool: Resist the urge to cut into your dessert right away! Letting it cool for a bit allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to slice. Plus, it tastes even better when it’s had a chance to set!
Leftover Ideas: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare, trust me!), try toasting a piece in the oven with a little butter or serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream. It’s a delightful way to enjoy it again!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to baking a gorgeous and delicious festive dessert that everyone will love. Enjoy the process, and happy baking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to store any leftovers you might have (if there are any!). This delightful dessert is best enjoyed fresh, but you can definitely keep it for later. Here’s how:

Storing: Once your festive dessert has completely cooled, cut it into squares and place them in an airtight container. This will help keep them moist and delicious! You can store them at room temperature for up to 2 days, or pop them in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they’re well sealed to avoid drying out!
Freezing: If you want to save some for a later date, you can freeze individual pieces. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just write the date on the bag so you remember when you made them!
Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply take out a piece and let it come to room temperature. You can also warm it up in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a cozy treat. If you’d prefer a crispy exterior, pop it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Trust me, this little step makes it feel freshly baked again!

Following these simple storage and reheating tips will ensure that your festive dessert stays delicious for as long as possible. Enjoy every last bite, whether fresh or warmed up again! Happy holidays!

Nutritional Information

Let’s take a quick look at the nutritional values for this delightful festive dessert. Knowing what’s in your food can help you make the best choices for you and your loved ones. Here’s what you can expect per serving (1 piece):

Calories: 250
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 50mg

These numbers can vary a bit depending on the specific ingredients you use, but this gives you a good estimate. Enjoy this treat knowing that it’s not just delicious but also brings a little balance to your holiday feasting!

FAQ Section

Can I use different types of dried fruit?
Absolutely! I love mixing things up with different dried fruits like cranberries, apricots, or even figs. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor, making your festive dessert even more delightful!

How should I store leftovers?
Once your dessert has cooled, cut it into squares and store it in an airtight container. It can last for up to 2 days at room temperature or about a week in the fridge. Just make sure it’s sealed well to keep it moist!

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This holiday recipe is perfect for making in advance. You can bake it a day or two ahead of your gathering, and it will still taste fabulous. Just remember to let it cool completely before storing.

What if I don’t have baking powder?
If you find yourself out of baking powder, you can use a combination of baking soda and cream of tartar as a substitute. Use 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda plus 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar for every teaspoon of baking powder needed. Just remember, this recipe really relies on that leavening agent, so try to have some on hand!

Can I freeze this dessert?
Definitely! You can freeze individual pieces by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy them again!

What’s the best way to serve this festive dessert?
This dessert is delicious on its own, but I love serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for that extra touch of indulgence. It’s a lovely treat that’s sure to impress your guests!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free, and you should be all set for a delicious gluten-free festive dessert!

Delicious Christmas Dessert
Learn more about baking powder
Check out these holiday cooking tips
Find out how to store baked goods properly

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.