As the festive season approaches, there’s a unique warmth in the air, and I can’t help but feel the excitement for holiday baking. Today, I’m thrilled to share Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites—a delectable treat that effortlessly elevates any gathering. These charming bite-sized delights boast a wonderfully moist texture and irresistible fruity medley, blending apricots, raisins, and cherries in every morsel. What’s more, they’re delightfully simple to make, allowing you to whip up a batch without a fuss. Not only do they steal the show at Christmas parties, but they also make for perfect sweet nibbles alongside your afternoon tea. Curious about how to create these festive treats? Let’s dive into the recipe together!
Why Make Mary Berry’s Cake Bites?
Indulgence in simplicity: These delightful Christmas Cake Bites are easy to prepare, making them perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros.
Bursting with flavor: The combination of apricots, raisins, and cherries creates a vibrant taste that’s sure to impress at any festive gathering.
Cuts down on mess: With their bite-sized nature, cleanup is a breeze! Plus, they’re fantastically shareable for parties.
Versatile options: Feel free to switch up the fruits or add spices like nutmeg for a personalized touch.
Perfect pairing: Serve them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee for optimal enjoyment, much like my Christmas Sugar Cookie Shots Recipe.
These cake bites are bound to become a holiday favorite!
Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites Ingredients
For the Cake Mixture
- Chopped Apricots – Provides sweetness and fruity goodness; soak in brandy for added flavor.
- Brandy – Enhances depth of flavor and moisture; replace with apple juice for a non-alcoholic version.
- Butter – Adds richness and moisture; use unsalted for better control over sweetness.
- Light Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and a caramel undertone; can substitute with granulated sugar if necessary.
- Eggs (beaten) – Acts as a binder to create structure; room temperature eggs yield better texture.
- Plain Flour – Provides stability and structure; gluten-free flour is an option for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Raisins – Adds natural sweetness and chewiness; consider substituting with sultanas for a milder flavor.
- Currants – Contributes a fruity burst; optional if you prefer to include more raisins.
- Quartered Cherries – Offers tartness and festive color; make sure to wash and dry thoroughly before adding.
For the Topping
- Apricot Jam (warmed) – Used for glazing the top; apricot preserves can work as a perfect substitute.
- Ready-prepared Almond Paste (Golden Marzipan) – Adds a nutty sweetness; can be omitted for a simpler finish.
- Ready-to-roll White Icing – Supplies a smooth decorative finish; fondant can be used for a different texture.
These Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites are bound to add festive cheer to your celebration!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Tin
Preheat your oven to 160°C (Fan) / 140°C / Gas 3. While the oven warms, grease a 30 × 20 cm traybake tin and line it with baking paper, ensuring the paper hangs over the sides for easy removal later. This will help your Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites come out of the tin beautifully!
Step 2: Soak the Apricots
In a bowl, soak the chopped apricots in brandy overnight. This step allows the apricots to absorb the flavors, creating a wonderfully moist texture in your cake bites. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, feel free to substitute the brandy with apple juice.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Once soaked, take softened butter and light brown sugar and cream them together in a mixing bowl using an electric mixer. Beat until the mixture is smooth and light in color, around 3-5 minutes. This will incorporate air and add a lovely fluffiness to your Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites.
Step 4: Mix in the Eggs and Flour
Gradually add the beaten eggs to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing well after each addition. Then, gently fold in the plain flour, soaked apricots, raisins, currants, and quartered cherries until just combined. The batter should be thick and well combined, reflecting the vibrant colors of all the fruits.
Step 5: Fill the Tin
Spoon the cake mixture into your prepared traybake tin, leveling the top with a spatula for an even finish. Smooth it out carefully, ensuring there are no air pockets, as this will contribute to the delightful texture of your Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites once baked.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 1 to 1¼ hours, or until the surface is golden brown and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake bites during the last few minutes; they should bounce back lightly when pressed.
Step 7: Glaze and Decorate
After removing the baked cake from the oven, allow it to cool completely in the tin. Once cooled, brush the top with warmed apricot jam to create a beautiful glaze. In this step, feel free to add a layer of almond paste (marzipan) if desired for extra sweetness.
Step 8: Ice the Cake Bites
Cover the glazed cake with ready-to-roll white icing, smoothing it out for a polished finish. Use a rolling pin for an even layer, creating a festive look for your Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites that’s sure to impress anyone at your holiday gathering.
Step 9: Cut and Serve
Finally, use a sharp knife to carefully cut the cake into bite-sized squares. Arrange your Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites on a platter and serve them alongside your favorite hot beverages. These treats are meant for sharing, making your festive celebrations even sweeter!
What to Serve with Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites
Perfect for elevating your festive gatherings, these delightful treats can find their best companions on the holiday table.
- Cozy Tea Blend: A warm cup of spiced chai beautifully complements the rich, fruity flavors of the cake bites, enhancing the cheerful atmosphere.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Vibrant seasonal fruits like pomegranate and orange provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bites, adding a burst of color and flavor.
- Creamy Vanilla Custard: The silky smoothness of custard pairs exquisitely, bringing a comforting warmth that rounds out these festive treats perfectly.
- Dark Chocolate Truffles: Elegant and decadent, dark chocolate truffles create a lovely balance to the sweet cake bites, offering a delightful depth of flavor.
- Mulled Wine: This traditional holiday drink warms the soul while the spiced notes echo the flavors in the cake bites, making it a seasonal favorite.
- Lightly Toasted Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted almonds or walnuts adds a satisfying crunch, enriching each bite with nutty goodness while cutting through the cake’s softness.
- Eggnog: The creamy richness of eggnog pairs splendidly, bringing a touch of indulgence that perfectly matches the festive spirit of Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites.
- Christmas Pudding: For an extra festive touch, serving a slice of traditional Christmas pudding alongside adds variety and nostalgia, pleasing every palate around the table.
Expert Tips for Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the eggs and butter, are at room temperature for better texture and incorporation.
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Even Cooling: Allow the cake to cool completely in the tin before icing; this prevents melting and ensures a neat finish on your Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites.
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Moisture Control: If using dried fruits, soak them well to enhance moisture in the cake. This step elevates the flavor and texture, avoiding any dryness.
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Serve Fresh: For optimal taste, serve the cake bites fresh within the week. Store them properly in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
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Think Ahead: You can prepare these treats up to two days in advance, but for longer storage, freeze without marzipan or icing to enjoy later!
How to Store and Freeze Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites
Room Temperature: Keep the cake bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, ensuring they stay fresh and moist for your holiday celebrations.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cake for up to 10 days; just remember to allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezer: Freeze Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites without marzipan or icing for up to three months. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for optimal freshness.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the frozen cake bites at room temperature. If desired, warm them slightly in the oven for a few minutes to revive their delightful texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites are a wonderful choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire cake mixture up to 24 hours in advance, simply cover it tightly and refrigerate to maintain freshness. Soaking the apricots overnight in brandy (or apple juice for a non-alcoholic option) works perfectly to enhance flavors. Once baked, these delightful bites can be decorated and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days before serving, ensuring they remain just as delicious and moist. When ready to serve, simply cut into squares and present them with a festive flourish—saving you time and stress during the busy holiday season!
Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Christmas Cake Bites to make them even more delightful and tailored to your taste!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil or dairy-free spread for a delicious plant-based option. This will keep the flavors rich while catering to those avoiding dairy.
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Non-Alcoholic: Replace brandy with apple juice or a splash of orange juice for a fruity twist that’s suitable for everyone at the table. It maintains the moistness while ensuring a family-friendly dessert.
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Whole Wheat Flour: Swap out plain flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, adding a greater nutritional punch. Your cake bites will have a heartier texture and a lovely depth of flavor.
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Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg into the mix for a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the fruits. It’s a lovely nod to holiday spice!
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Fruit Variety: Experiment with different dried fruits like figs, cherries, or cranberries for unique flavor profiles. Each fruit brings its distinct sweetness and texture, making your cake bites stand out!
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Smaller Portions: Cut the cake into mini squares or use a mini muffin tin to create adorable bite-sized treats. They’ll be even more irresistible as canapés at your holiday gatherings!
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Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and added richness. Nuts provide a lovely contrast to the soft, fruity bites.
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Glaze Options: Try using a different flavored glaze, such as lemon or orange, instead of apricot jam for a refreshing touch that livens up the festive bite. A citrus twist can brighten flavors beautifully!
As you whip up these festive treats, consider pairing them with a steaming cup of tea or browsing my recipe for delightful Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread. Happy baking!
Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites Recipe FAQs
What types of dried fruit work best for Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites?
Absolutely! The original recipe calls for apricots, raisins, currants, and cherries, but feel free to swap or add other dried fruits like figs or dates. Just ensure the quantities remain similar for texture, and remember to keep some moisture in the mix!
How should I store leftover Christmas Cake Bites?
For sure! Keep your Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’re hoping to extend their life, refrigerate them for about 10 days—just bring them back to room temperature before serving to enjoy their full flavors.
Can I freeze these cake bites for later?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, make sure to do so without the marzipan or icing for the best results. Wrap the decorated bites tightly in plastic wrap and pop them into a freezer-safe container. They can be kept frozen for up to three months. When you’d like to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature—oh, the anticipation will be worth it!
What should I do if my cake bites come out dry?
Very important question! If your cake bites are dry, it could be due to overbaking or not soaking the dried fruits adequately. To help prevent this next time, stick to the baking time and check with a skewer to ensure they’re just set. You could also soak the fruits longer—8 hours to overnight is ideal—to enhance moisture before mixing them in.
Are there any dietary considerations for your cake bites?
Absolutely! This recipe contains eggs and may include allergens such as nuts if you use almond paste. If you’re making them for someone with dietary restrictions, you can easily make these bite-sized treats gluten-free by swapping plain flour with a gluten-free blend. Plus, you can also substitute the brandy with apple juice for a non-alcoholic version!
How can I make my icing look more festive?
What a great idea! For a more festive touch, consider adding edible glitter or sprinkles on top of the icing after it sets. You might also pipe some decorations around the edges or use food coloring to tint your icing for a cheerful holiday vibe!
Mary Berry's Christmas Cake Bites for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 160°C (Fan) / 140°C / Gas 3. Grease a 30 × 20 cm traybake tin and line it with baking paper.
- Soak the chopped apricots in brandy overnight to absorb flavors.
- Cream softened butter and light brown sugar together until smooth and light.
- Gradually add the beaten eggs, then fold in plain flour, soaked apricots, raisins, currants, and quartered cherries until just combined.
- Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin, leveling the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 1 to 1¼ hours, or until a skewer comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the tin, then brush the top with warmed apricot jam.
- Cover with white icing, smoothing for a polished finish.
- Cut the cake into bite-sized squares and serve alongside hot beverages.
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