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Christmas is really about gathering with family and making memories. For me, baking a cake that feels joyful and a little different always brings extra cheer to the season.
Here are 16 Christmas cake ideas to help you bake something delicious and festive this year.
No matter your skill level, you can find something here to brighten up your holiday table.
1. Classic Fruitcake with Rum Soak
I like using mixed dried fruits soaked in rum for my classic fruitcake. Soaking the fruit brings out the flavor and keeps the cake fresh. After baking, I pour more rum over the cake to make sure it stays moist and rich.
2. Chocolate Yule Log with Chestnut Cream
I usually make a chocolate yule log with chestnut cream for Christmas. The chocolate sponge wraps around a creamy chestnut filling.
The chestnut cream gives it a smooth, slightly sweet flavor that goes well with the chocolate. It’s rich but not overwhelming.
3. Spiced Gingerbread Layer Cake
Spiced gingerbread layer cake always feels right for Christmas. The layers turn out soft and moist, packed with cinnamon and ginger.
I like to frost it with cream cheese or mascarpone to mellow out the spices. Sugared cranberries on top look festive and add a nice pop.
4. Eggnog Cheesecake with Nutmeg Topping
Eggnog cheesecake combines creamy cheesecake with that classic holiday eggnog flavor. A sprinkle of nutmeg on top gives it a warm, spiced kick.
I usually make the crust from graham crackers or cookies for a buttery base. It’s easy to prep ahead and chill until you’re ready to serve.
5. Red Velvet Christmas Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Red velvet cake just feels right for Christmas with its bright color and subtle chocolate flavor. Cream cheese frosting brings a smooth, tangy finish that works perfectly. Simple, but it looks and tastes festive.
6. Peppermint Mocha Bundt Cake
The Peppermint Mocha Bundt Cake brings together chocolate and mint in a way that just says “holiday.” I usually start with a boxed cake mix, but it ends up tasting homemade. The espresso ganache on top is my favorite part.
7. Cranberry Orange Pound Cake
Cranberry orange pound cake mixes sweet and tart in a way that feels like winter. The orange glaze adds a bright finish. It’s moist and always fits in with the rest of the holiday spread.
8. Caramel Pecan Christmas Cake
Caramel pecan Christmas cake is one of my favorites because the sweet caramel and crunchy pecans just work together. The cake comes out soft, and the caramel glaze on top makes it feel extra special. It’s not too tricky to make, either.
9. Almond Amaretto Cake with Marzipan
I always reach for amaretto liqueur when I want an almond cake with a little more character. It gives a smooth, nutty flavor that works so well with the marzipan layer.
The cake turns out moist and light, with almond extract to bring out the flavor. Marzipan on top just makes it feel like a true holiday treat.
10. Winter Wonderland Snowball Cake
Winter Wonderland Snowball Cakes are always a hit. I usually make them with a chocolate base and marshmallow filling.
Coconut buttercream frosting gives it a snowy look. It’s simple but festive, and it fits right in with winter.
11. Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake
Sticky Toffee Pudding Cake is basically a moist date cake drenched in toffee sauce. It’s warm and sweet, which feels just right for Christmas.
I like to serve it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a smooth contrast. This British dessert is pure comfort food.
12. Christmas Tree Shaped Sugar Cookie Cake
I love making a Christmas tree-shaped sugar cookie cake because it’s festive and easy to share. I cut the dough into a tree, bake it, and spread some simple frosting. It looks special but doesn’t take much effort.
13. White Chocolate and Raspberry Cake
White chocolate and raspberry cake hits that sweet and tart balance I always want for the holidays. It usually has layers of vanilla cake, fresh raspberries, and creamy white chocolate frosting. When you want something special but not super heavy, this one’s a winner.
14. Rum and Spice Bundt Cake
Rum and spice Bundt cake just feels like the holidays. The warm spices and rich rum flavor blend together so well. The cake stays moist, and I like to finish it with a simple glaze or maybe a scoop of ice cream.
15. Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake
Cinnamon swirl coffee cake is a go-to for Christmas mornings. It bakes up soft and moist, with a ribbon of cinnamon inside. The crumb topping adds a nice crunch and a little extra flavor.
16. Chocolate Peppermint Bark Cake
I love making a chocolate peppermint bark cake during the holidays. The chocolate layers turn out moist, and the peppermint frosting is so smooth—just the right amount of mint.
I always sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a bit of crunch and that classic holiday look. Honestly, it comes together pretty easily but still feels like something you’d serve at a special gathering.
