Table of Contents: Three Ingredient Christmas Cake
Three Ingredient Christmas Cake
Busy holiday season? No time for complicated baking? This Three Ingredient Christmas Cake is your lifesaver! Rich, moist, and packed with festive flavors, this simple Christmas fruit cake comes together in minutes—perfect for last-minute gatherings or a cozy family dessert.
Introduction: Three Ingredient Christmas Cake
The holidays are all about joy, warmth, and delicious food—but who has hours to spend in the kitchen? That’s where this easy Christmas cake recipe shines! With just three ingredients, you can whip up a decadent, moist fruit cake that tastes like it took all day to make.
Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner, need a last-minute Christmas cake for unexpected guests, or simply crave a homemade treat without the fuss, this recipe is your go-to. It’s alcohol-free, making it family-friendly, and the condensed milk ensures a lusciously tender crumb. Plus, it stores beautifully, so you can bake it ahead and enjoy it throughout the season.
No fancy techniques, no lengthy soaking of fruits—just pure, simple indulgence. If you love easy comfort food for family dinners, this cake is a must-try!
Alternate Names & Variations
This simple Christmas fruit cake goes by many names, depending on where you’re from:
– 3-Ingredient Fruit Cake
– Condensed Milk Christmas Cake
– Quick Holiday Cake
For a twist, try adding nuts, citrus zest, or a splash of rum for an adult version. Looking for more easy Christmas cake recipes? Check out our variations below!
Ingredients: Three Ingredient Christmas Cake

Here’s all you need:
– 2 cups (300g) mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, chopped dates, or store-bought fruitcake mix)
– 1 can (14 oz / 400g) sweetened condensed milk (full-fat for best texture)
– 1½ cups (180g) self-raising flour (or all-purpose flour + 1½ tsp baking powder)
Optional add-ins:
– 1 tsp mixed spice or cinnamon
– ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds)
– 1 tbsp brandy or orange juice for extra moisture
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
– Preheat oven to 320°F (160°C).
– Line a 7-inch (18cm) round cake tin with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Base
– In a large bowl, combine condensed milk and dried fruit. Stir until fully coated.
– Chef’s Tip: If using hard dried fruit, soak in warm water for 10 minutes first.
3. Add Flour
– Gradually fold in self-raising flour until no dry spots remain.
– Optional: Add spices or nuts for extra flavor.
4. Bake to Perfection
– Pour batter into the tin and smooth the top.
– Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean.
– Let cool completely before slicing.
Recipe Card (Quick Reference)
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 10 mins
Servings: 8 slices | Calories: ~280 per slice
Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips
✅ No soaking required—unlike traditional fruit cakes, this version skips the lengthy prep.
✅ Condensed milk keeps it ultra-moist without butter or eggs.
✅ Perfect for gifting—wrap slices in parchment for a festive touch.
Pro Tip: For a richer taste, brush the cooled cake with warmed apricot jam.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips
– Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
– Freezing: Wrap tightly in cling film and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
– Refreshing: Microwave slices for 10 seconds to restore moisture.
People Also Ask: Three Ingredient Christmas Cake

How long does a 3 ingredient Christmas cake last?
This cake stays fresh for up to 7 days at room temperature when stored properly. For longer shelf life, refrigerate it (up to 2 weeks) or freeze individual slices for 3 months. The high sugar content in condensed milk acts as a natural preservative, keeping the cake moist and delicious.
What can I use instead of condensed milk in a Christmas cake?
If you don’t have condensed milk, substitute with 1 cup heavy cream + 1 cup sugar (simmered until thickened). Alternatively, use coconut condensed milk for a dairy-free version. Note that texture may vary slightly.
Can you make a Christmas cake without alcohol?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally alcohol-free. For extra moisture, use orange juice, apple juice, or strong tea instead of traditional spirits. The cake remains rich and flavorful without any booze.
How do you keep a three-ingredient fruit cake moist?
The key is proper storage—wrap cooled cake tightly in cling film or foil. For extra moisture, brush with simple syrup (equal parts sugar + water, heated) before serving. Avoid overbaking, as condensed milk keeps it tender.
Conclusion: Three Ingredient Christmas Cake
There you have it—the easiest, fuss-free Christmas cake that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort! Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this simple Christmas fruit cake is sure to impress.
Try it today and share your creations with us! Tag #CrystalRecipes or leave a comment below. Wishing you a joyful, delicious holiday season!
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Print
Three Ingredient Christmas Cake
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 cake (10-12 slices) 1x
Description
A festive, moist, and rich Christmas cake made with just three simple ingredients—perfect for last-minute holiday baking!
Ingredients
- 1 kg mixed dried fruit
- 600 ml chocolate milk
- 2 cups self-raising flour
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and line a cake tin with baking paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed dried fruit and chocolate milk. Stir well and let it soak overnight or for at least 6 hours.
- After soaking, add the self-raising flour to the fruit mixture and stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the tin before removing and serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, you can add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg. Store in an airtight container and it will keep well for up to 2 weeks.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: christmas cake, three ingredient cake, holiday dessert, easy fruitcake