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The sweet scent of cinnamon and the rich undertones of dried fruits fill the air, wrapping me in warmth as the holidays approach. That’s the magic I felt when I first baked Mary Berry’s Mini Christmas Cakes—a delightful dessert that celebrates the spirit of the season. Perfectly portioned and incredibly moist, these festive cakes are a festive centerpiece for any gathering or a charming gift for loved ones. Best of all, they’re versatile! You can easily adapt them to be gluten-free, vegan, or packed with your favorite fruits. With just a little prep, you’ll create a merry treat that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings friends and family together. Are you ready to spread some holiday cheer with these delightful mini cakes?
Why Are These Cakes So Irresistible?
Deliciously Festive: The warm spices and sweetness from dried fruits create a festive flavor that embodies the holiday spirit.
Adaptable for All: Whether you’re gluten-free or vegan, these mini cakes can easily be tailored to meet everyone’s dietary preferences.
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Perfect Portions: Their charming bite-sized shape makes them ideal for sharing at gatherings or gifting to friends and family, ensuring everyone gets a taste.
Effortless Preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create these delightful treats without stress.
Heartwarming Tradition: Baking these cakes not only fills the home with enticing aromas but also draws friends and family together to share in the joy of the season, making it a cherished festive activity.
For more festive ideas, don’t miss out on my delicious Mini Blueberry Muffins or my enticing Nutella Churro Biscuits.
Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes Ingredients
Elevate your holiday baking with these delightful mini cakes!
For the Batter
- Butter – 100g, softened; adds richness and moisture—make sure it’s at room temperature for best results.
- Light Brown Sugar – 100g; provides sweetness and moisture—dark brown sugar gives a deeper flavor.
- Eggs – 2 large, beaten; serves as a binding agent—use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
- Self-Raising Flour – 200g; gives the cakes structure and lightness—opt for gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Ground Mixed Spice – 1 teaspoon; enhances flavor with warmth—try using pumpkin pie spice or a cinnamon-nutmeg blend.
For the Fruits
- Mixed Dried Fruit – 200g; adds sweetness and texture—feel free to substitute with your favorites like cranberries or apricots.
For Flavoring
- Brandy or Orange Juice – 2 tablespoons; enriches the flavor—orange juice is a great non-alcoholic option.
For Decoration
- Icing Sugar – 200g, sifted (optional); provides a sweet finish—mix with warm water for the perfect icing consistency.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes Dessert
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F), ensuring it’s ready for baking. While the oven warms, prepare your miniature cake tins by greasing them with butter or lining them with parchment paper for easy removal. This step is crucial to achieve those perfect, lovely mini cakes without sticking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 100g of softened butter and 100g of light brown sugar using an electric mixer. Beat the mixture for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until it’s light and fluffy, and slightly paler in color. This creates a rich base for your Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes, ensuring a moist texture.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs
Gradually add in 2 beaten large eggs to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, combining them until fully incorporated. This should take about 1 to 2 minutes. Look for a smooth batter consistency without any streaks of egg, which will help bind the mixture together splendidly.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Sift 200g of self-raising flour and 1 teaspoon of ground mixed spice into the wet ingredients. Gently fold the dry ingredients using a spatula until just combined, taking care not to over-mix. You want a smooth batter that retains some air for those wonderfully fluffy Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes.
Step 5: Fold in the Fruits and Flavor
Stir in 200g of mixed dried fruit along with 2 tablespoons of brandy or orange juice. Mix until the fruits are evenly dispersed throughout the batter. This step not only adds delightful flavor but also enhances the moisture and festive vibe of your cakes, making them perfect for the holidays.
Step 6: Fill the Tins
Spoon the batter into the prepared miniature cake tins, filling each about three-quarters full. This allows enough room for the cakes to rise beautifully. Take a moment to smooth the tops with the back of a spoon for an even finish that will rise charmingly as they bake.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place your filled tins in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Perfectly baked Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes will have a golden-brown top and a soft, springy texture.
Step 8: Cool and Remove
Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the tins for about 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack. This resting period ensures they are set but still warm enough to maintain their delightful moisture. Let the cakes cool completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 9: (Optional) Icing the Cakes
For an optional festive touch, prepare your icing by mixing 200g of sifted icing sugar with warm water until you achieve a pourable consistency. Drizzle this over your cooled Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes for a sweet finish. Allow it to set before indulging, creating a wonderful presentation for your festive gatherings.
Make Ahead Options
Mary Berry’s Mini Christmas Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by creaming the butter and sugar, then mixing in the eggs and dry ingredients. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. If you want to get even further ahead, the fully baked cakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just remember to cool them completely before storing to maintain their moist texture. To finish, simply make your icing and drizzle it over the cakes just before serving for that delightful festive touch!
Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes Variations
Feel free to play around with these delightful treats and make them your own!
- Gluten-Free: Replace self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a safe and tasty alternative that won’t compromise on flavor.
- Vegan: Use flax eggs instead of real eggs and choose plant-based margarine to keep everyone included in the festive fun.
- Fruit Variation: Swap out the mixed dried fruits for cherries and apricots, adding a unique twist that brightens each bite with a pop of flavor.
- Add Spices: Include ground ginger or nutmeg into the batter for an extra kick! The cozy aroma will surely embrace the holiday spirit.
- Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. They also contribute a rustic feel, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Chocolate Twist: Elevate the sweetness by folding in some dark chocolate chips; they’re a delicious way to surprise your guests with a new depth of flavor.
- Citrus Zing: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter; it brightens the flavors and complements the sweetness of the dried fruits beautifully.
For more festive inspirations, try my delightful Mini Blueberry Muffins or indulge in my decadent Baked Creme Dessert that both celebrate seasonal joy!
What to Serve with Mary Berry’s Mini Christmas Cakes
The holiday season is the perfect time to create a cozy dining experience, and these delightful mini cakes deserve the best companions to elevate your gatherings.
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Warm Earl Grey Tea: The aromatic blend of bergamot and smooth black tea pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cakes, creating a relaxing afternoon treat.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a delightful creaminess, enhancing the cakes’ moist textures and balancing the rich flavors.
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Mulled Wine: The spiced warmth of mulled wine offers a festive touch, perfectly complementing the spices in the mini cakes while keeping the holiday spirit alive.
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Festive Fruit Salad: A refreshing bowl of tangy citrus and seasonal fruits brightens the palate and contrasts the cakes’ sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Adding a few gingerbread cookies to your spread creates a delightful holiday medley, blending flavors that hark back to traditional festive delights.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent twist, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the mini cakes. The richness of the chocolate elevates each cake, creating pure indulgence.
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Coffee or Espresso: For a pick-me-up, serve your mini cakes with a warm cup of coffee or a shot of espresso. The bold coffee flavor balances the sweetness and adds an energizing kick to your gathering.
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Ice Cream: Vanilla or spiced ice cream adds a creamy, cold contrast to the warm cakes, creating a luscious combination that’s hard to resist.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses can create an unexpected yet delightful pairing, balancing the sweetness of the cakes with savory flavors for an intriguing taste experience.
Expert Tips for Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to achieve a smooth and fluffy batter, particularly butter and eggs.
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Don’t Overmix: Avoid overmixing the dry ingredients when folding them into the wet mixture. This will help prevent dense cakes and ensure a light texture in your Mary Berry mini Christmas cakes.
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Check Early: Test for doneness with a toothpick a few minutes before the recommended baking time. This will help you avoid overbaking and keep your cakes moist.
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Cool Completely: Allow the cakes to cool entirely before icing. This prevents the icing from melting, providing a beautiful finish and presentation at holiday gatherings.
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Customize Flavors: Feel free to experiment with the mix-ins! Adding spices or different dried fruits can enhance the diversity of flavors in your festive mini cakes.
Storage Tips for Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes
Airtight Container: Store your mini cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their moisture and flavor.
Refrigeration: If you want to extend their life, refrigerate the cakes for up to 1 week. Just let them come to room temperature before serving.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cakes in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes at room temperature or warm them gently in the oven to refresh their delightful texture.
Mary Berry’s Mini Christmas Cakes Recipe FAQs
What are the best fruits to use in my mini cakes?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your mini cakes by swapping out the mixed dried fruits for your favorites. Dried cranberries, apricots, or cherries provide delightful sweetness and texture. Other combinations like figs or dates work beautifully too!
How should I store Mary Berry’s Mini Christmas Cakes?
You can store your mini cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture!
Can I freeze these mini cakes?
Very! To freeze your Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes, wrap each cake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them up in the oven for a few minutes.
What if my cakes are too dense?
If your mini cakes turn out dense, it may be due to overmixing the dry ingredients. Ensure to fold the flour mixture gently into the wet ingredients until just combined to maintain that light and airy texture. Also, using room temperature ingredients can help create a better batter consistency.
Can I make these cakes gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt Mary Berry’s Mini Christmas Cakes to be gluten-free. Simply substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free if you’re using a blend without it. This will keep your cakes light and delicious!
Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
While this recipe includes common allergens like eggs and dairy (butter), you can modify it for specific dietary needs. For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and use plant-based margarine. Always check your dried fruits and sugars for potential allergens as well.
Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes Dessert: Festive Joy in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and prepare the miniature cake tins.
- Cream together 100g of softened butter and 100g of light brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add in 2 beaten large eggs and mix until fully incorporated.
- Sift in 200g of self-raising flour and 1 teaspoon of ground mixed spice, and gently fold together.
- Fold in 200g of mixed dried fruit and 2 tablespoons of brandy or orange juice until combined.
- Spoon the batter into prepared miniature cake tins, filling them about three-quarters full.
- Bake in the oven for 25 to 30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in the tins for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Optional: Mix 200g of sifted icing sugar with warm water for icing, and drizzle over the cooled cakes.
