11 Tips for Christmas Cake, Indian Style

11. Gift, Pack and Store Like a Pro

A plum cake makes a lovely gift when wrapped with care. Let the cake rest for at least 24 hours before packing. Wrap in parchment and then in foil, and place in a sturdy box with tissue paper to prevent movement. Include a small note with ingredients and whether the cake contains alcohol—this is helpful for recipients in North America, where label expectations differ from India. For travel, add a layer of bubble wrap and keep the cake cool; if shipping, use an insulated box with gel packs. At room temperature, a well-wrapped cake keeps 7–10 days; refrigerated, it lasts several weeks. If you’ve brushed with alcohol, that helps preservation, but note that refrigeration will firm the cake—bring it to room temperature before serving for best texture. Small presentation tips—tie a ribbon and add a card—turn a homemade cake into a thoughtful holiday gift.