Are you ready to make a delightful holiday treat? The Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes recipe is a perfect choice for festive gatherings or as a sweet gift for loved ones. These charming little cakes are deliciously spiced and beautifully decorated, making them a joy to bake and share during the holiday season.

Why Make This Recipe

Creating these mini Christmas cakes is not just about indulging in a sweet treat; it’s about embracing the spirit of the holiday season. The warm aromas of spices fill your kitchen, evoking memories of family and togetherness. They are simple to make, and you can customize them with your own favorite decorations, from icing holly leaves to colorful glacé cherries. Moreover, these cakes are a fantastic way to use up any dried fruits you have on hand. Plus, they make wonderful gifts, beautifully packaged in cellophane or gift boxes.

How to Make Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes

Making Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes is an enjoyable process that brings together delightful flavors and festive cheer. Here’s how to prepare these tasty treats, step by step.

Ingredients:

175g softened butter
175g light brown soft sugar
3 large eggs
175g self-raising flour
2 tsp ground mixed spice
115g mixed dried fruit
2 tbsp brandy or orange juice (for a non-alcoholic option)

For the Icing:

115g icing sugar
1-2 tbsp warm water
Glacé cherries for decoration
Icing holly leaves for topping

Directions:

Prepare and Mix:
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Grease and line a 12-hole muffin tray with paper cases. This ensures your cakes come out easily and have a neat presentation.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer for ease.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Sift in the self-raising flour and ground mixed spice, gently folding it into the mixture until fully combined.
Add Fruit and Bake:
- Fold in the mixed dried fruit and add either brandy or orange juice to enhance the flavor.
- Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin holes, filling each case about two-thirds full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. To check if they are done, insert a skewer into the center of one of the cakes; it should come out clean if they’re baked perfectly.
Cool and Decorate:
- Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes in the tray before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the icing, mix the icing sugar with warm water to create a thick paste. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, spoon the icing over the top of each cake. Decorate with a glacé cherry and icing holly leaves for a festive finish.

Pro Tips for Success with Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
Don’t Overmix: When adding the flour, be gentle to avoid a dense cake.
Cool Completely: Ensure the cakes are completely cool before icing to prevent the icing from melting.
Creative Decorations: Use colored sprinkles or edible glitter for added holiday cheer!
Test the Cakes: Use a skewer to ensure they are fully baked; this method is reliable to avoid doughy centers.

Flavor Variations for Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes

Add Zest: Incorporate citrus zest (like orange or lemon) for an added zing.
Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices such as nutmeg, ginger, or cloves to create unique flavors.
Different Fruits: Try using chopped dried apricots, cranberries, or cherries instead of mixed dried fruit.
Nuts: Add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for some crunch and contrast against the soft cake.
Chocolate Chunks: Stir in some dark or white chocolate chunks for a delightful twist.

Serving Suggestions for Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes

These mini cakes are perfectly portioned for individual servings, making them suitable for any gathering. Serve them on a festive platter alongside hot drinks like mulled wine or spiced apple cider. They can also be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. Wrap them lovingly as gifts, or include them in a holiday treat basket along with other homemade goodies.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

To keep your mini Christmas cakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to make them ahead of time, these cakes freeze wonderfully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and decorate them just before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|———-|——–|
| Calories | 220 |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 33g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 50mg |

FAQ About Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes

Can I make these cakes in advance?

Absolutely! These mini Christmas cakes actually taste better after a day or two as the flavors have more time to meld together. You can make them up to a week in advance and store them in an airtight container.

What can I substitute for the brandy?

If you prefer not to use alcohol, orange juice is a great substitute. Alternatively, you can use unsweetened apple juice or water with a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Can I decorate these cakes differently?

Yes, feel free to get creative with your decorations! Use any festive toppings you love, such as colored sprinkles, edible glitter, or even fondant shapes.

How do I ensure my cakes are moist?

To maintain moisture, be careful not to overbake the cakes. Check them a few minutes before the recommended time. Also, adding a bit of orange juice or using a moist dried fruit can help keep them tender.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free for the best results.

Final Thoughts

The Mary Berry Mini Christmas Cakes recipe is not only easy to make but also a wonderful way to celebrate the festive season. Enjoy the process of baking and decorating these delightful cakes, and share them with family and friends to spread holiday cheer. Whether you keep them for yourself or gift them to loved ones, these charming mini cakes are sure to bring smiles and joy to all who enjoy them. Happy baking!