Christmas is special with Mary Berry’s small cake. This Mary Berry Small Christmas Cake Recipe is perfect. It’s easy to make and tastes amazing.

You don’t need expert skills for this. The cake is moist, fruity, and festive. It serves 8-10 people perfectly. This recipe saves time during busy holidays.

You’ll love how simple it is. The ingredients for Mary Berry Small Christmas Cake are basic. Anyone can learn how to make Mary Berry Small Christmas Cake. Let’s start baking this wonderful treat together.

When I First Introduced to Mary Berry Small Christmas Cake

I discovered this cake five years ago. My aunt made it for our family gathering. The aroma filled her entire kitchen beautifully. I took one bite and fell in love.

The cake was perfectly balanced and delicious. It wasn’t too heavy or too sweet. Since then, I make it every December. My family now requests it every year.

This Mary Berry Small Christmas Cake Recipe became our tradition. It brings joy to our Christmas celebrations.

Equipment List

6-inch round cake tin
Mixing bowls
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking parchment paper
Wire cooling rack
Sharp knife
Aluminum foil

Ingredients You Need for Mary Berry Small Christmas Cake

175g mixed dried fruit
50g glacé cherries, halved and washed
75g butter
75g light brown sugar
2 medium eggs
100g plain flour
1/2 teaspoon mixed spice
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
25g ground almonds
1 tablespoon black treacle
2 tablespoons brandy or orange juice

Step-by-Step Guide

Line your 6-inch tin with baking parchment.
Grease it well with butter first.
This prevents the cake from sticking later.
Combine dried fruit with brandy or juice.
Let it soak for 30 minutes minimum.
This makes the fruit extra juicy.
Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
This takes about 3-4 minutes of mixing.
The mixture should look pale and creamy.
Beat in eggs slowly, one at a time.
Add a spoonful of flour if it curdles.
Keep mixing until everything combines smoothly.
Sift flour, spice, and baking powder together.
Add ground almonds to the mix too.
Fold gently into the wet mixture carefully.
Stir in your soaked fruit with liquid.
Add the black treacle at this stage.
Mix everything until evenly distributed throughout.
Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).
Pour mixture into your prepared tin carefully.
Cover the top loosely with foil.
Bake for 2 to 2.5 hours total.
Test with a skewer inserted in center.
It should come out clean when done.
Let the cake cool in tin completely.
Remove and wrap in baking parchment tightly.
Store in an airtight container safely.
Feed with brandy weekly if desired.

Tips to Make the Best Mary Berry Small Christmas Cake

Soak your fruit overnight for better results.
Use quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Don’t skip the foil covering while baking.
Check the cake after 2 hours carefully.
Let it cool completely before storing it.
Feed with brandy for a richer taste.
Make it 2-3 weeks before Christmas ideally.
Store in a cool, dark place always.

FAQs about Mary Berry Small Christmas Cake

Q: Can I make this cake alcohol-free?

A: Yes, absolutely you can make it alcohol-free. Use orange juice instead of brandy completely.

Q: How long does this cake last?

A: The cake lasts 2-3 months when stored properly. Keep it wrapped tightly in a container.

Q: Can I freeze this Christmas cake?

A: Yes, you can freeze it for months. Wrap it well before freezing it properly.

Q: Do I need to decorate it?

A: Decoration is completely optional for this cake. Marzipan and icing work beautifully on top.

Q: Can I double this recipe easily?

A: Yes, just use an 8-inch tin instead. Increase baking time by 30-40 minutes accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Mary Berry Small Christmas Cake Recipe is wonderful. It’s simple enough for beginner bakers too. The cake tastes just like traditional versions.

Your family will love this festive treat. Start baking it today for Christmas celebrations. You won’t regret making this delicious cake.

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