Deliciously Festive: Easy Mini Christmas Cake Recipe for the Holidays

Deliciously Festive: Easy Mini Christmas Cake Recipe for the Holidays

Written by Jessica Lopez

6 REVIEWS | 4.0 AVERAGE

Published at 13-01-2023

Edited on 03/31/2025 | 02:05 PM

Baked-Goods Recipes

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American Vintage

Difficulty: Moderate

Servings

10-12 slices

Prep Time

25 minutes

Cooking Time

35 minutes

Total Time

1 hour

Fat

18g

Protein

5g

Carbs

55g

Calories

450 kcal

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a delightful mini Christmas cake? Perfect for gifting, sharing, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea, these charming little cakes are bursting with festive flavors and can easily become a cherished tradition in your home. Unlike their larger counterparts, mini Christmas cakes offer a more personal touch, making them ideal for individual servings or as part of a festive dessert platter. This mini Christmas cake recipe combines the rich tastes of dried fruits, warm spices, and a hint of citrus, enveloped in a moist, tender crumb. Not only are they visually appealing, but they’re also simple to make, even for novice bakers.

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch that will impress friends and family alike. What’s more, these mini cakes are incredibly versatile! You can customize them with your favorite nuts, fruits, or spices, or even top them with a luscious layer of marzipan and a drizzle of royal icing for that classic festive look. As you prepare to dive into the holiday spirit, this mini Christmas cake recipe will ensure your celebrations are sweet and memorable. So, gather your ingredients, put on your favorite holiday tunes, and let’s get baking! Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to spread some cheer, these mini Christmas cakes are sure to be a hit. Let’s make this holiday season extra special with these delightful treats!.

Essential Ingredients of mini christmas cake recipe

  • Flour: 2 1/2 cups (300g)

  • Cocoa Powder: 3/4 cup (75g) unsweetened

  • Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons

  • Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon

  • Salt: 1/2 teaspoon

  • Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (226g), softened

  • Granulated Sugar: 1 cup (200g)

  • Eggs: 3 large, at room temperature

  • Milk: 1 cup (240ml), at room temperature

  • Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons

  • Mixed Dried Fruits: 2 cups (300g), chopped

  • Chopped Nuts: 1 cup (150g), optional

  • Powdered Sugar: for dusting

Measurement Units of mini christmas cake recipe

  • 200g mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, sultanas)

  • 100g unsalted butter, softened

  • 100g brown sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • 150g all-purpose flour

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger

  • 50g chopped nuts (optional)

  • 50ml milk

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • Zest of 1 orange

  • Zest of 1 lemon

Step by Step Instructions For mini christmas cake recipe

Step by Step Instructions For mini christmas cake recipe

  • Step - 1

    Gather all your ingredients and equipment. You'll need flour, sugar, eggs, butter, baking powder, mixed dried fruits, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Make sure you have measuring cups, mixing bowls, and a mini cake tin ready.

  • Step - 2

    Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your mini Christmas cakes bake evenly and develop that lovely golden color.

  • Step - 3

    In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cake a nice rise.

  • Step - 4

    Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to create a stable batter and prevents it from curdling. If you want to add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor, now is the perfect time.

  • Step - 5

    In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and spices. This not only removes lumps but also combines the dry ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even distribution in your cake.

  • Step - 6

    Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cake dense. The batter should be thick and smooth.

  • Step - 7

    Fold in the mixed dried fruits and nuts of your choice. This is where you can get creative—feel free to add your favorite holiday flavors like candied ginger or orange zest for a festive twist.

  • Step - 8

    Grease your mini cake tin with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared tin, filling it only about two-thirds full to allow for rising.

  • Step - 9

    Bake your mini Christmas cakes in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.

  • Step - 10

    Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool completely before decorating with icing or festive toppings.

Additional Notes of mini christmas cake recipe

  • Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter. This helps the butter cream more easily with the sugar, leading to a lighter cake.

  • Do not overmix to avoid a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.

  • Feel free to customize the dried fruits and nuts according to your preference. Dried apricots, cherries, or even chocolate chips can add a delightful twist.

  • For a more festive touch, consider soaking the dried fruits in rum or orange juice overnight before using them in the recipe.

  • Ensure your baking tin is well-greased and lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make for easy removal.

  • Mini cakes bake faster than larger ones, so keep an eye on them and start checking for doneness around the 20-minute mark.

  • Let the cakes cool completely in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack to avoid breaking.

  • These mini cakes can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. They often taste even better after a day or two as the flavors meld together.

Special Equipment of mini christmas cake recipe

  • Electric mixer (hand or stand)

  • Mixing bowls

  • Measuring cups and spoons

  • Spatula

  • 8-inch round cake pans

  • Cooling rack

Expert Chef Tips of mini christmas cake recipe

  • Choose a mix of dried fruits like raisins, currants, and cranberries for a burst of flavor.

  • Soak the dried fruits in rum or orange juice overnight for extra moisture and taste.

  • Grease your mini cake pans well to prevent sticking and ensure a clean release.

  • Bake the cakes until a toothpick comes out clean but avoid overbaking for a tender crumb.

  • Decorate with marzipan and royal icing for a festive touch that looks professional.

Ingredient Sourcing and Quality Tips of mini christmas cake recipe

  • For flour, choose unbleached all-purpose flour to achieve a rich and satisfying texture.

  • Use high-quality unsalted butter, preferably European-style, for its superior flavor and higher fat content.

  • Select fresh, plump dried fruits for the best taste; organic options can enhance quality.

  • Look for pure vanilla extract rather than imitation for a deeper, richer flavor.

  • Buy eggs from free-range chickens for better taste and ethical sourcing.

Dietary Considerations of mini christmas cake recipe

Dietary Considerations of mini christmas cake recipe

  • Gluten-Free Options: For those with gluten intolerance, substitute traditional flour with a gluten-free blend made from rice flour, almond flour, or coconut flour. This allows everyone to enjoy the festive flavors without any digestive concerns.

  • Dairy-Free Alternative: If you're lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet, you can use plant-based butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter. Also, opt for non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk in the recipe.

  • Nut-Free Version: Many traditional Christmas cakes include nuts. If you have allergies, simply omit nuts or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added texture without compromising safety.

  • Low-Sugar Adaptation: For those monitoring sugar intake, consider using natural sweeteners such as coconut sugar or stevia. These alternatives can reduce the overall sugar content while still providing a delightful sweetness.

  • Vegan-Friendly: To make a vegan mini Christmas cake, replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. This maintains moisture and binding without using animal products.

  • Paleo-Friendly: If you follow a paleo diet, use almond flour and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. This keeps the cake compliant with paleo principles while still delivering festive flavors.

  • Keto-Friendly: For a low-carb option, substitute traditional flour with almond flour and use erythritol or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar. This allows you to enjoy Christmas cake without the carbs.

  • High-Protein Twist: Add protein powder to the batter for a high-protein version. This can be beneficial for those looking to increase their protein intake, especially during the holiday season.

  • Low-Calorie Variation: Use unsweetened applesauce in place of some of the butter or sugar to create a lower-calorie version of the mini Christmas cake while still keeping it moist and flavorful.

  • Whole Grain Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrients. This slight change makes your mini Christmas cake healthier without sacrificing taste.

  • Diabetic-Friendly: For those managing diabetes, use sugar substitutes and monitor portion sizes. Incorporating spices like cinnamon can also help regulate blood sugar levels.

  • Sulfite-Free Ingredients: If you're sensitive to sulfites often found in dried fruits, look for organic or unsweetened dried fruits that do not contain preservatives. This keeps your cake safe and delicious.

  • Allergy-Friendly: Always check the labels of your ingredients for potential allergens. Opt for products that are certified allergen-free to ensure that everyone can enjoy the festive treat.

  • Cultural Adaptations: Consider incorporating culturally significant ingredients or flavors to make the mini Christmas cake more personal. This can include spices, dried fruits, or nuts that are meaningful to your traditions.

My Review On mini christmas cake recipe

If you're looking for a festive treat this holiday season, the mini Christmas cake recipe is a must-try! These adorable little cakes are perfect for gift-giving or as a delightful addition to your holiday spread. Made with rich fruitcake batter, these mini cakes are infused with spices and packed with dried fruits, creating a burst of flavors in every bite. The best part? They are easy to make and can be decorated to suit your style, whether you prefer classic marzipan or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. Each mini cake is perfectly portioned, making them ideal for sharing with friends and family. Plus, they store well, allowing you to bake in advance and enjoy fresh flavors throughout the holidays. With their charming size and festive appeal, mini Christmas cakes are sure to become a holiday favorite in your home. Give this recipe a try and spread some holiday cheer with these delightful treats!

Related Dishes of mini christmas cake recipe

  • Carrot Cake: A spiced, moist cake topped with cream cheese frosting that complements the festive flavors of a mini Christmas cake.

  • Classic Pound Cake: Dense, buttery, and perfect with fruit toppings, this cake offers a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of Christmas treats.

  • Fruitcake: A traditional holiday favorite, fruitcake is packed with dried fruits and nuts, making it a hearty companion to mini Christmas cakes.

  • Gingerbread: With its warm spices and sweet aroma, gingerbread brings a cozy touch to your holiday table, pairing wonderfully with mini cakes.

  • Chocolate Yule Log: This classic dessert is a rolled sponge cake with chocolate frosting, adding a rich and festive flair to your holiday spread.

Authoritative Cookbooks or Chefs of mini christmas cake recipe

The Cake Bible

by Rose Levy Beranbaum

Christmas Baking: Festive Treats for the Holiday Season

by Kathy Gunst

Cultural and Historical Context of mini christmas cake recipe

The tradition of Christmas cakes dates back to medieval England when rich fruitcakes were made with dried fruits, spices, and often alcohol to celebrate the festive season. These cakes were believed to bring good luck and were often enjoyed during gatherings and feasts. Over time, the concept evolved, leading to the delightful mini Christmas cakes we know today. Perfect for sharing or gifting, these bite-sized treats capture the essence of holiday cheer while allowing for more manageable portions. They reflect a blend of culinary heritage and contemporary convenience, making them a beloved choice for holiday celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions About mini christmas cake recipe

Reviews of mini christmas cake recipe

Emily Johnson

I made these mini Christmas cakes for a holiday party, and they were a hit! The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the icing was just the right sweetness. Everyone asked for the recipe. Definitely making them again next year!

★★★★★

Michael Smith

These mini cakes are adorable and delicious! I loved how easy the recipe was to follow. The spices gave it that perfect holiday flavor. I added some extra fruit, and it turned out great. Will be a holiday staple from now on!

★★★★

Sarah Brown

I tried this recipe for my family gathering, and it was a success! The cakes were moist and flavorful. I appreciated the smaller size, making them perfect for dessert platters. I might try a different frosting next time!

★★★★

David Wilson

These mini Christmas cakes are simply delightful! They were easy to bake and looked so festive. I loved the combination of spices. My kids enjoyed decorating them, making it a fun family activity. Highly recommend!

★★★★★

Jessica Taylor

I was pleasantly surprised by how well these mini cakes turned out! They were moist and packed with flavor. I used a cream cheese frosting, which complemented the cake perfectly. Will definitely make them again!

★★★★

Chris Martinez

I baked these mini Christmas cakes for my coworkers, and they loved them! The recipe was straightforward, and the cakes were a nice size for a quick treat. I might add some nuts next time for extra crunch!

★★★
Hi! I’m Jessica Lopez

Jessica Lopez is a passionate home cook, food enthusiast, and storyteller who believes that food is more than just nourishment—it’s an experience. Through her blog, she shares recipes, culinary adventures, and inspiration to help others explore new flavors and embrace the joy of cooking. Whether experimenting with ingredients, recreating family favorites, or discovering global cuisines, Jessica’s mission is to connect people through the art of food, one delicious dish at a time.