Ah, holiday desserts! There’s just something magical about them, isn’t there? They warm up our homes and our hearts, filling the air with delightful aromas that bring everyone together. Imagine the scene: family and friends gathered around the table, laughter echoing, and smiles spreading wide as you share these sweet treats. It’s like a hug in dessert form! I can’t stress enough how much joy it brings me to whip up something special and see the delight on my loved ones’ faces when they take that first bite. Trust me, it’s priceless! This recipe for a delightful holiday dessert is not only easy to make, but it’s also a fantastic way to spread warmth and cheer during the festive season. So, let’s dive into this scrumptious adventure together, creating something that will not only please your taste buds but also create beautiful memories with those you cherish. Because at the end of the day, it’s all about sharing love, laughter, and, of course, delicious desserts!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful holiday dessert. I like to gather all my ingredients first—it makes the process smoother and more enjoyable! Let’s break it down:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Make sure it’s spooned into the measuring cup and leveled off for accuracy.
- 1 cup sugar: Regular granulated sugar works perfectly here.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened: Let it sit at room temperature for a bit before using; this helps it cream nicely with the sugar.
- 1 cup milk: You can use whole or 2% milk, whichever you prefer.
- 2 large eggs: These should be at room temperature for the best mixing.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: This is what gives your dessert that lovely rise!
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A must for that warm, inviting flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to enhance all those sweet flavors.
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits: I love using a combination of raisins, cranberries, and apricots for a festive touch!
Gather these ingredients, and you’re already on your way to creating something wonderful. Remember, fresh ingredients yield the best results, so check those expiration dates if you’ve had some sitting around!
How to Prepare Holiday Desserts
Now that we’ve gathered all our ingredients, it’s time to get our hands a little messy and bring this delightful holiday dessert to life! Don’t worry, it’s a straightforward process, and I’ll guide you every step of the way. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven: First things first, go ahead and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important step because a hot oven ensures even baking.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, combine your softened butter and sugar. Using an electric mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the sweet smell wafting up!
- Add the eggs and vanilla: Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in that lovely vanilla extract. It adds such warmth to the mix!
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This helps to ensure that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout your flour, which is key for a good rise.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. This method keeps the batter smooth and prevents the flour from clumping. Stir gently until everything is just combined—don’t overmix!
- Fold in the dried fruits: Now, it’s time to add that colorful mix of dried fruits. Gently fold them into the batter until evenly distributed. You want to see those beautiful bits peeking through!
- Prepare to bake: Pour the batter into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. I like to use a spatula for this, making sure it’s nice and level.
- Bake it up: Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. It’s such a rewarding moment!
- Cool and serve: Let it cool in the dish for a bit before transferring it to a wire rack. Once it’s cool, you can slice it up and serve it warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the smiles it brings!
See? That wasn’t too hard, right? Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a beautiful holiday dessert that fills your home with cheer!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can quickly whip this up, leaving you more time to enjoy the holiday festivities!
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already, making it easy to jump right into baking.
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of butter, sugar, and vanilla creates a warm, inviting aroma that fills your home with holiday cheer.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields 8 generous servings, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy get-togethers with friends.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer dried fruits, nuts, or even chocolate chips, this dessert can easily be tailored to suit your taste.
- Easy Cleanup: With just one mixing bowl and a baking dish, you won’t be overwhelmed by a mountain of dishes after your delicious creation!
- Creates Lasting Memories: There’s something special about sharing a homemade dessert with loved ones; it’s the little things that make the holidays truly memorable.
Tips for Success
To make sure your holiday dessert turns out perfectly, I’ve got a few handy tips that I’ve learned along the way. First, when you’re creaming the butter and sugar, take your time! Aim for that light, fluffy texture; it really makes a difference in the final product. Don’t rush this step—it’s where the magic begins!
Also, remember to mix the dry ingredients separately before combining them with the wet ingredients. This helps to ensure an even rise and prevents those dreaded flour lumps. And when you’re combining everything, mix gently—overmixing can lead to a dense texture, and we want that lovely lightness!
Keep an eye on your baking time, too. Ovens can vary, so start checking your dessert a few minutes before the recommended time. If the edges are golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean, it’s time to take it out.
Finally, let it cool before slicing. I know it’s tempting to dig right in, but letting it rest helps the flavors meld beautifully. Enjoy the process, and happy baking!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
It’s always great to have options, especially when it comes to accommodating dietary needs! If you or someone you’re baking for has specific preferences or restrictions, here are some handy substitutions that work beautifully for this holiday dessert.
- Dairy-Free: If you’d like to make this dessert dairy-free, simply swap the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. Both options provide delicious results! For the milk, almond milk or oat milk are excellent alternatives and will keep the flavors lovely.
- Lactose-Free: If lactose is an issue, stick with lactose-free milk, which you can find at most grocery stores. It’s a simple switch that doesn’t compromise taste!
- Nuts and Allergies: If you need to avoid nuts, feel free to replace the dried fruits with chocolate chips or even more fruit! Just be mindful of any allergies your guests might have.
- Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. It’s an easy swap that keeps everyone included at the table!
These substitutions ensure that everyone can enjoy this delightful holiday dessert without worry. Happy baking, and let your creativity shine!
FAQ Section
Can I make this holiday dessert in advance?
Absolutely! This dessert actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just bake it a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature. You can warm it slightly in the oven before serving, which brings back that lovely fresh-baked aroma!
What can I use if I don’t have dried fruits?
No worries at all! If dried fruits aren’t your thing, feel free to use chocolate chips or a mix of nuts. You could even add some fresh fruit, like chopped apples or pears, for a twist. Just remember to adjust the baking time if you use fresh ingredients.
How do I know when the dessert is fully baked?
You’ll want to keep an eye on it as it bakes. When the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven. Don’t be tempted to open the oven too early, as that can cause it to sink!
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, indeed! If you have leftovers (though I doubt it!), let the dessert cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
What’s the best way to serve this dessert?
I love serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top! It really enhances the flavors and brings a festive touch to your holiday gatherings. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
As with any recipe, the nutritional information can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and their brands. While I can give you a general idea, please keep in mind that precise nutritional data is not provided here. For each serving of this delightful holiday dessert, you can expect roughly 180 calories, with about 10 grams of sugar and 3 grams of protein. It’s always a good idea to check labels if you’re concerned about specific dietary needs, especially if you’re making substitutions. Remember, the joy of cooking comes from experimenting and making it your own, so don’t stress too much over the numbers—focus on the delicious flavors and happy memories you’re creating! Enjoy every bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to store those delicious leftovers! If you happen to have any of this delightful holiday dessert left after your gathering (though I doubt it!), you’ll want to store it properly to keep it fresh and tasty.
First, let it cool completely before wrapping. This prevents condensation from forming and keeps your dessert from getting soggy. Once it’s cool, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can place it in an airtight container. It should stay fresh at room temperature for about 2-3 days.
If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it! Just make sure it’s well-wrapped, and it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice again, simply take it out of the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
For reheating, you can warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or pop a whole piece in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This brings back that lovely warm texture and aroma—perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee! Happy storing!
Print
Delicious Holiday Desserts: 7 Comforting Recipes for Joy
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful holiday dessert that brings warmth to your home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk.
- Fold in the dried fruits.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Use almond milk instead of regular milk for a lactose-free version.
- Feel free to replace dried fruits with nuts or chocolate chips based on preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: holiday desserts, easy dessert recipes, festive baking
