Best 2 Danish Christmas Cake Recipes

Danish Christmas cake, also known as Julekage, is a traditional and beloved treat that holds a special place in Danish culinary culture. This delectable cake is intricately designed and bursting with a symphony of flavors, making it a centerpiece of Danish Christmas festivities. The preparation of Danish Christmas cake is a cherished ritual, passed down through generations, ensuring its unique taste and charm. Let's embark on a delightful journey to discover the best recipe for this enchanting delicacy, exploring its rich history and uncovering the secrets behind its irresistible allure.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

DANISH CHRISTMAS CAKE

Danish Christmas Cake image

This festive cake slices into beautiful torte-like layers-just right for the holidays.

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Desserts

Time 1h

Yield 16-20 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 8

Ingredients

1 package yellow cake mix (regular size)
2 cups cold whole milk
1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
1 package (11-1/2 ounces) macaroons, crushed
1 jar (10 ounces) currant jelly
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Steps:

Prepare and bake cake according to package directions, using two greased 9-in. round baking pans. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely. , In a bowl, whisk milk and pudding mix for 2 minutes. Let stand for 2 minutes or until soft-set. Stir in macaroons. Cut each cake horizontally in half. Place one bottom layer on a serving plate; spread with half of pudding mixture. Top with another cake layer; spread with jelly. Top with another cake; spread with remaining pudding mixture. Top with remaining cake., In a small bowl, beat cream until it begins to thicken. Add sugar and vanilla; beat until stiff peaks form. Frost top and sides of cake. Refrigerate until serving.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 348 calories, Fat 17g fat (7g saturated fat), Cholesterol 51mg cholesterol, Sodium 256mg sodium, Carbohydrate 45g carbohydrate (33g sugars, Fiber 2g fiber), Protein 4g protein.

DANISH CHRISTMAS CAKE WITH ORANGE COCONUT TOPPING

Danish Christmas Cake with Orange Coconut Topping image

If you're not a fan of fruitcake, you will be after trying this cake! By letting it stand overnight before serving, the fabulous flavors are really enhanced.-Gail Sellers, Maiden, North Carolina

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Desserts

Time 1h25m

Yield 12 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 17

Ingredients

1 cup butter, softened
1-3/4 cups sugar
3 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon orange juice
1 teaspoon grated orange zest
3 cups all-purpose flour
1-1/2 teaspoons baking soda
2 cups chopped dates
1-1/4 cups chopped red candied cherries
1 cup chopped pecans
TOPPING:
1 cup sugar
1 cup orange juice
4 teaspoons grated orange zest
2 cups sweetened shredded coconut

Steps:

In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition., Combine the buttermilk, vanilla, orange juice and zest. Combine flour and baking soda; add to creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk mixture, beating well after each addition. Fold in the dates, cherries and pecans. , Pour into a greased and floured 10-in. tube pan. Bake at 350° for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack., For topping, in a large saucepan, combine the sugar, orange juice and zest; cook and stir until sugar is dissolved. Stir in coconut; cook 1 minute longer. Slowly pour over warm cake. Let stand overnight.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 746 calories, Fat 30g fat (16g saturated fat), Cholesterol 94mg cholesterol, Sodium 359mg sodium, Carbohydrate 118g carbohydrate (85g sugars, Fiber 5g fiber), Protein 8g protein.

Tips:

Start early: Danish Christmas cake takes time to make, so it's best to start early. This will give the cake time to mature and develop its full flavor.
Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will impact the taste of your cake. Use the best butter, sugar, flour, and spices you can find.
Follow the recipe carefully: Danish Christmas cake is a delicate cake, so it's important to follow the recipe carefully. Don't skip any steps or substitute ingredients unless you know what you're doing.
Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing the batter will make the cake tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Bake the cake at a low temperature: Danish Christmas cake is baked at a low temperature for a long time. This helps the cake to develop its flavor and texture.
Let the cake cool completely: Once the cake is baked, let it cool completely before you ice it. This will help the cake to hold its shape.
Decorate the cake with your favorite toppings: Danish Christmas cake is traditionally decorated with icing, marzipan, and candied fruit. However, you can decorate the cake with any toppings you like.

Conclusion:

Danish Christmas cake is a delicious and festive cake that is perfect for the holiday season. It's a bit of work to make, but it's worth it. With a little planning and effort, you can make a Danish Christmas cake that will be the star of your holiday table.