As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through the home. These Tiny Christmas Fruit Cakes are a delightful addition to any festive gathering, offering a burst of fruity flavors and warm spices in every bite. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or gifting to friends, these mini cakes are a true joy to make and enjoy.
Tiny Christmas Fruit Cakes
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (such as cranberries, cherries, and apricots), finely chopped
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup currants
– 1/4 cup chopped candied peel
– 1/4 cup brandy
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the mixed dried fruits, raisins, currants, and candied peel. Pour the brandy over the fruits and let them soak for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
2. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and prepare a mini muffin tin by greasing each cup lightly.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
5. Sift in the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a smooth batter forms.
6. Fold in the soaked dried fruits and any remaining brandy, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cake comes out clean.
9. Allow the Tiny Christmas Fruit Cakes to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, these mini cakes can be enjoyed on their own or embellished with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing for an extra festive touch.
These Tiny Christmas Fruit Cakes are a labor of love that will surely be appreciated by all who taste them. Their rich, fruity flavors and tender crumb make them a perfect indulgence during the holiday season. Whether enjoyed alongside a cup of hot cocoa or wrapped up as a thoughtful gift, these mini cakes are sure to bring warmth and cheer to your Christmas celebrations.
