Christmas is all about coming together with your loved ones and spreading cheer and joy over some delicious food. Christmas cakes are a big part of that cheer you can share with your family and friends. There are many cake varieties around the world associated with Christmas, the classic plum cake being the most popular one. Well, if you wish to indulge in something different yet authentic for Christmas, look no further than Scotland’s famous Dundee Cake. With its golden crumb, jewel-like fruits, and a regal crown of almonds, this cake is steeped in legend and heritage. Read on to know why it is the perfect Christmas cake for you!
Dundee Cake, A Slice Of Scotland’s Sweet Legacy
Dundee Cake’s history dates back to the 16th century and is associated with Mary, Queen of Scots. According to legend, the cake was specially made for her because she disliked glacé cherries, a common ingredient in traditional fruit cakes. Instead, a simpler recipe featuring raisins, almonds, and orange zest was created. It became the foundation of this iconic dessert.
Fast forward to the late 18th century, when the Keiller Marmalade Company in Dundee commercialised the recipe, incorporating their famous Seville orange marmalade. This innovation cemented the cake’s association with the Scottish city. By the 19th century, Dundee Cake became popular at British tea tables.
Unlike traditional fruit cakes, the Dundee Cake is delicately flavoured and less dense. The use of orange marmalade imparts a distinct sweet-bitter tang that sets it apart from other fruit cakes. The decorative concentric circles of blanched almonds add visual appeal and a delightful crunch.
The sweetness and zest of Dundee Cake make it the perfect complement to the hearty dishes of a Christmas feast. Because of its lighter texture, it does not overpower the rest of the meal, and its festive almond decoration adds to the visual appeal.
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Traditional Dundee Cake Recipe
Here’s how to make an authentic Dundee Cake at home:
Ingredients:
- 175g unsalted butter, softened
- 175g caster sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 225g plain flour
- 2 tsp. baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- Zest of 1 orange
- 3 tbsp. orange marmalade
- 100ml milk
- 175g raisins
- 175g sultanas
- 50g ground almonds
- 50g candied citrus peel
- Blanched almonds for decoration
Method:
- Set the oven to 150°C. Grease a 20cm (8-inch) round cake tin and line it with parchment paper.
- Beat the sugar and butter together in a big bowl until they are light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs a little at a time while beating thoroughly.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold into the butter mixture alternately with the milk to make a smooth batter.
- Stir in the orange zest, marmalade, raisins, sultanas, ground almonds, and candied peel.
- Pour the mixture into the tin and smooth the top with a spoon. Place the blanched almonds on the cake in circles.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 2–2.5 hours or until it is baked to perfection.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for fifteen minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
- Once completely cool, it can be wrapped and stored for up to a week, allowing the flavours to deepen.
This recipe also offers a delightful way to bring a touch of Scottish heritage to your festive table.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva
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