When the holiday season rolls around, it’s time to start thinking about those delightful treats that can warm the heart and bring joy to your family and friends. Miniature fruit cakes are a perfect addition to your festive table—they are cute, delicious, and packed with flavor. Plus, they make fantastic homemade gifts that everyone will appreciate. The beauty of these miniature fruit cakes is that they are easy to make, customizable, and perfect for sharing. Let’s get baking!
**Miniature Fruit Cakes**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as cranberries, raisins, and apricots)
– 1/2 cup chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
– 1/4 cup candied ginger, diced
– 1/4 cup candied citrus peel, chopped
– 1/4 cup brandy or orange juice
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a mini muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits, chopped nuts, candied ginger, candied citrus peel, and brandy or orange juice. Let it sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the fruits to soak up the liquid.
3. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
5. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Fold in the soaked fruit and nut mixture until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
8. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, fill each cupcake liner with the batter, about 2/3 full.
9. Bake the miniature fruit cakes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the mini fruit cakes to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These adorable miniature fruit cakes are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, celebrating a special event, or simply looking for a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea. The combination of dried fruits, nuts, and warm spices creates a delightful flavor profile that will surely impress your guests. Feel free to get creative with your choice of fruits and nuts to customize the recipe to your liking. Enjoy these mini fruit cakes as a delightful indulgence or wrap them up beautifully to give as thoughtful gifts to your loved ones. Happy baking!
