Name: Delight Everyone with This Festive Christmas Lights Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free option); 2 cups Granulated Sugar (brown sugar can yield a richer flavor); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (baking soda can work if adjusted with an acid); 1 teaspoon Fine Salt (no substitutions needed); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (can substitute with margarine or dairy-free butter); 6 large Egg Whites (use whipped aquafaba for a vegan option); 1 cup Full-Fat Sour Cream (Greek yogurt can substitute); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (vanilla bean paste offers a more intense touch); 1 teaspoon Green Gel Food Coloring (optional for a festive ombre effect); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (same substitution options as above apply); 1 teaspoon Almond Extract (adjust or omit for nut allergies); 4 cups Powdered Sugar (no substitutions suggested); 2 tablespoons Heavy Whipping Cream (coconut cream can replace for dairy-free option); 2 cups Almond M&Ms (other festive candies can be substituted)

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As the holiday season approaches, the aromas of vanilla and almond wafting through the kitchen instantly bring a sense of joy. I can’t help but think about my favorite festive tradition: baking a stunning Christmas Lights Cake. This delightful dessert not only sparkles on the table with its colorful almond M&Ms but also captures the essence of the season with its rich flavor. What makes this cake truly special is its blend of light and airy layers paired with a creamy almond buttercream, ensuring every bite feels like a little celebration. Plus, it’s a breeze to make, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. How about we dive into crafting this festive treat that will light up your holiday gatherings?

Why is this cake so delightful?

Festive Appeal: The vibrant almond M&Ms give this cake a cheerful look, perfect for holiday celebrations.

Irresistible Flavor: The delightful marriage of vanilla and almond creates a multi-dimensional taste experience that will have your guests asking for seconds!

Simplicity: With easy-to-follow instructions, even novice bakers can feel confident during the holiday season.

Versatile Options: Mix and match flavors by substituting chocolate or red velvet layers, or try unique fillings. For more delicious ideas, check out my Moist Strawberry Shortcake or Black Velvet Cake.

Time-Saving Trick: The cake can be made in advance and frozen, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones during the festivities!

Christmas Lights Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Layers

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and stability to the cake; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; brown sugar can yield a richer flavor.
Baking Powder – Serves as the leavening agent to help the cake rise; baking soda can work if adjusted with an acid.
Fine Salt – Enhances flavor; no substitutions needed.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture to both cake and frosting; can substitute with margarine or dairy-free butter for a dairy-free version.
Egg Whites – Provide structure and lightness to create fluffy layers; use whipped aquafaba for a vegan option.
Full-Fat Sour Cream – Contributes moisture and tanginess; Greek yogurt can substitute in similar amounts.
Vanilla Extract – Adds flavor depth; vanilla bean paste offers a more intense touch if preferred.
Green Gel Food Coloring – Optional for creating a festive ombre effect; no substitutions needed.

For the Buttercream Frosting

Unsalted Butter – Primary fat for creaminess in the frosting; same substitution options as above apply.
Almond Extract – Provides a distinct nutty flavor; adjust or omit for nut allergies or personal preference.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the buttercream; no substitutions suggested.
Heavy Whipping Cream – Ensures a creamy consistency of the frosting; coconut cream can replace for a dairy-free option.

For Decoration

Almond M&Ms – Adds color and texture to the cake; other festive candies can be substituted for variety.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re set to create your own stunning Christmas Lights Cake!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Lights Cake

Step 1: Cake Preparation
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare four 8-inch (or 7-inch) cake pans by greasing them with unsalted butter and lining them with parchment paper. This ensures your Christmas Lights Cake layers will release easily after baking, leaving you with beautiful, clean edges.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and fine salt. Use a whisk to blend these dry ingredients thoroughly, ensuring an even distribution of the leavening agent throughout the mixture. This step helps create a light, fluffy texture in the final cake.

Step 3: Add Butter
Add softened unsalted butter to the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium speed, mix until the mixture becomes crumbly, resembling coarse sand. This process typically takes about 2-3 minutes and incorporates the fat needed for your moist cake layers.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Next, add the egg whites, full-fat sour cream, and vanilla extract to the crumbly mixture. Mix on medium speed until everything is just combined, about 1-2 minutes. You want a smooth batter without overmixing, which prevents your Christmas Lights Cake from becoming dense.

Step 5: Color Batter (Optional)
If you’re adding a festive touch, divide the batter into portions and mix in green gel food coloring to create an ombre effect. Use a spatula to fold the color in gently until fully integrated. This step will ensure that your cake layers have a fun, vibrant look reminiscent of twinkling Christmas lights.

Step 6: Bake
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake in your preheated oven for 32-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on your cakes; they should spring back lightly when touched and have a lovely golden-brown hue.

Step 7: Cool Layers
Once baked, remove the cake pans from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes. Carefully transfer the layers to a wire rack and set them in the freezer for 30 minutes. This helps the cakes firm up, making them easier to handle during assembly and frosting.

Step 8: Buttercream Frosting
While the layers cool, prepare the almond buttercream frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat unsalted butter on medium speed until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add in the vanilla extract, almond extract, and powdered sugar, mixing until you reach a creamy consistency. Adjust with heavy whipping cream as needed for the perfect spreadability.

Step 9: Assemble Cake
Once the cake layers are cool, stack them on your cake stand. Spread a generous amount of buttercream frosting between each layer, applying a crumb coat on the outside. Refrigerate the cake for about 20 minutes to set the frosting before applying a final, smooth layer of buttercream.

Step 10: Decorate
For the finishing touch on your Christmas Lights Cake, use a piping bag to create squiggly lines of frosting around the cake for a string-light effect. Firmly press almond M&Ms into the frosting, decorating it all around the sides and top. This colorful display will bring your festive cake to life!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Lights Cake

Fridge: Store your Christmas Lights Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This keeps the cake moist and the flavors fresh.

Freezer: If you want to extend its life, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last for up to 1 month.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight. If it’s frozen, let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Additional Frosting: To prevent dryness during storage, consider covering the cake with a layer of buttercream before wrapping, ensuring your Christmas Lights Cake stays deliciously moist.

Expert Tips for Christmas Lights Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and a lighter texture in your Christmas Lights Cake.
Cake Cooling: Level the cake layers only after completely cooling to avoid crumbling and ensure even stacking.
Buttercream Consistency: Adjust the heavy cream in your buttercream to achieve the desired smoothness; using too little will make it hard to spread.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cakes towards the end of the baking time; overbaking can dry out your festive layers.
Decorating Tips: For a professional finish, use different piping tips to create varied textures on your decorated cake!

Christmas Lights Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to sprinkle your own magic on this festive cake with these delightful twists!

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to keep it light and fluffy.
Sugar Boost: Use brown sugar instead of granulated for a warm, caramel-like flavor that pairs beautifully with almond.
Vegan Delight: Replace egg whites with whipped aquafaba for a fluffy vegan version that everyone will enjoy.
Fruit Filling: Introduce layers of raspberry or strawberry jam between the cake layers for a fruity zing that complements the almond perfectly.
Nut-Free: Substitute almond extract with vanilla or a nut-free flavoring to create a cake everyone can safely enjoy.
Holiday Spice: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm holiday spice that gives extra flair.
Chocolatey Twist: Layer chocolate or red velvet cake with the almond buttercream for a rich, decadent surprise that’s sure to impress.
Candy Variation: Use peppermint candy instead of almond M&Ms for a delightful holiday twist that adds a refreshing crunch.

The beauty of baking lies in its versatility! For even more delicious ideas, check out my Moist Strawberry Shortcake or treat the chocolate lovers in your life with my Oreo Cake Pops. There are endless possibilities to celebrate the joy of the season!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Lights Cake layers are perfect for meal prep! You can bake and cool the cake layers up to 3 days in advance, storing them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator to keep them moist. Additionally, you can prepare the buttercream frosting up to 24 hours ahead of time, storing it in an airtight container to preserve its creamy texture. When you’re ready to assemble and serve your festive cake, simply take the layers and frosting out, frost the cake, and decorate with the almond M&Ms. This way, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress your guests with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Christmas Lights Cake

Enhance your holiday celebrations with a beautifully curated meal that complements this delightful festive cake.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness adds a comforting contrast to the sweetness of the cake, making them a perfect savory side.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crisp-tender Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil and sea salt provide a fresh, earthy flavor that balances out the dessert.
Tomato and Mozzarella Salad: Bright and tangy, this salad with basil drizzled in balsamic reduction offers a refreshing palate cleanser before that sweet finale.
Mulled Wine: The warm spices and sweetness of mulled wine echo the flavors of the cake, creating a cozy and festive beverage pairing.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: This indulgent drink topped with whipped cream mirrors the colors of the cake while adding a seasonal touch of peppermint.
Gingerbread Cookies: The aromatic spices of gingerbread complement the almond flavor of the cake beautifully, creating a harmonious dessert experience.
Pecan Pie: Rich and nutty pecan pie rounds out the menu, inviting your guests to indulge in a variety of holiday treats.
Spiced Eggnog: A creamy blend of spices and sweetness in eggnog offers an irresistible holiday touch that perfectly matches the festive spirit of the cake.
Chestnut Soup: Silky and savory, a warm chestnut soup can be a delightful starter that prepares the palate for a sweet finish.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of classic vanilla ice cream served alongside is the ultimate pairing, allowing you to enjoy a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.

Christmas Lights Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of almond M&Ms should I use for this cake?
Absolutely! I recommend using regular almond M&Ms for the best color and texture contrast against the green frosting. However, you can get creative and substitute them with festive candies like chocolate coins or peppermint candies to add a unique twist.

How should I store my Christmas Lights Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you prefer to extend its shelf life, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It can be kept in the freezer for up to one month! Just ensure it’s covered with a layer of frosting to maintain moisture.

Can I use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Very! You can absolutely use gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free Christmas Lights Cake. Make sure to select a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum or add it separately, following the ratio recommendations from the blend packaging to ensure the layers rise beautifully.

What should I do if my cake layers are domed after baking?
No worries! If your cake layers come out with a dome shape, simply level them with a serrated knife once they’ve cooled completely. Just keep your knife parallel to the counter for an even cut. This ensures that when you stack the layers, your Christmas Lights Cake will have a nice, flat surface for decorating.

Can I freeze the cake layers before frosting?
Absolutely! That’s actually a great trick I often use. After baking and cooling the layers for about 10 minutes, transfer them to the freezer for about 30 minutes. This will firm them up and make them easier to frost later, ensuring a beautiful finish for your festive cake.

Are there any nut-free alternatives I can use for the almond extract?
Yes, if you’re looking to cater to nut allergies, simply omit the almond extract and use additional vanilla or even a splash of coconut extract for a delightful flavor twist. Your Christmas Lights Cake will still be festive and delicious without the nutty notes!