There’s something magical about the scent of baked goods wafting through the kitchen during the holiday season. As I prepared to whip up Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites, the nostalgia of festive gatherings filled my heart. These delightful treats are a true celebration of flavor, combining fruity sweetness and a rich, comforting texture that makes them perfect for any holiday table. The best part? They’re quick to make and even easier to share, turning a simple baking session into a joyful experience for everyone. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or looking for the ideal accompaniment to your cup of tea, these little bites are sure to win hearts. Curious how to bring a piece of Mary Berry’s Christmas spirit to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this enchanting recipe together!

Why will you love Mary Berry’s cakes?

Unmatched Flavor: Each bite is filled with the delightful taste of fruits, creating a perfect harmony of sweetness and tartness.

Quick Preparation: These bites come together in a snap, letting you enjoy more time with your loved ones.

Versatile Treat: With easy swaps, personalize them to your taste, whether you prefer figs instead of apricots or a hint of spice from ginger.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for festive gatherings, these cakes charm guests of all ages and make your holiday table shine.

Store & Share: Make them ahead, store them easily, and enjoy them fresh or frozen, making holiday baking a breeze.

Looking to add even more festive flair to your table? Pair these bites with a warm cup of coffee alongside Coffee Cheesecake Indulge or some delightful Crispy Crab Rangoon Bites.

Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites Ingredients

Get ready to bake a festive favorite!

For the Cake Mixture

175g (6 oz) apricots, chopped – Adds sweetness and chewy texture; can substitute with other dried fruits like figs or dates for variety.
3 tablespoons brandy – Enhances flavors with warmth; for a non-alcoholic option, use apple juice.
175g (6 oz) butter, softened – Provides richness and structure; opt for unsalted butter for better control over the salt level.
175g (6 oz) light brown sugar – Brings sweetness and moisture; granulated sugar can be used for a lighter flavor.
4 eggs, beaten – Acts as a binding agent; for an egg-free alternative, consider flaxseed or chia eggs.
175g (6 oz) plain flour – Forms the base of the cake; use a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
225g (8 oz) raisins – Offers sweetness and chewiness; chopped nuts can be a delightful alternative for added crunch.
225g (8 oz) currants – Contributes flavor similar to raisins; sultanas work as a suitable substitute.
225g (8 oz) cherries, quartered, washed, and dried – Provides a lovely tartness; dried cranberries make a great swap.

For the Decoration

A little apricot jam, warmed – Used for glazing and adding sweetness; feel free to swap with any fruit jam or syrup you prefer.
500g (1 lb 2 oz) ready-prepared almond paste (Golden Marzipan) – Adds a sweet layer on top; fondant can substitute, or skip it for a simpler finish.
500g (1 lb 2 oz) ready-to-roll white icing – Ensures a smooth, sweet finish; omit for a rustic appearance if desired.

These Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites are sure to be a hit, so let your creativity flow as you prepare this festive delight!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 160ºC (Fan 140ºC/Gas 3). While the oven heats, grease and line a 30 × 20 cm (12 × 8 in) traybake tin with baking paper. This preparation ensures that your Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites will bake evenly and release effortlessly after baking.

Step 2: Soak Apricots
Take the chopped apricots and place them in a small bowl. Pour the brandy over the apricots, ensuring they are fully covered. Allow them to soak overnight or for at least a few hours until they absorb the liquid. This step adds wonderful flavor and moisture to your Christmas cake bites.

Step 3: Prepare Batter
In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and light brown sugar with an electric whisk until smooth and fluffy, usually around 2-3 minutes. You want the mixture to turn pale and airy. This process helps to incorporate air for a lighter texture in your Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Once your batter is ready, gently fold in the soaked apricots along with the beaten eggs, plain flour, raisins, currants, and quartered cherries. Use a spatula to mix until all ingredients are well combined, ensuring not to overmix. The rich colors and textures will merge beautifully, creating a flavorful batter.

Step 5: Bake
Spoon the cake mixture into the prepared traybake tin and smooth the top with the back of a spoon. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 to 1¼ hours, or until the cake is golden brown and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it, as the aroma will guide you to its doneness.

Step 6: Cool
Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and allow the cake to cool in the tin for about 10-15 minutes. This resting time helps firm up the cake before transferring it. Gently lift it from the tin using the baking paper and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Decorate
After the cake is fully cooled, brush the top with warmed apricot jam for shine and sweetness. Layer it with the prepared almond paste, smoothing it out, then brush with additional jam for an even finish. Finally, cover the cake with ready-to-roll white icing, creating a smooth exterior for your Christmas Cake Bites.

Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once decorated, it’s time to slice your Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites into squares. For elegant presentation, consider cutting them into smaller canapés. Serve these delightful treats alongside a cup of tea or coffee, making them the perfect festive indulgence for your gatherings.

What to Serve with Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites

Elevate your festive gatherings with these delightful partners to your sweet treats, enhancing the flavors in every bite.

Warm Mulled Wine: Perfectly spiced and aromatic, this classic holiday drink complements the rich flavors of the cake bites beautifully, creating a warm atmosphere.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture offers a savory contrast to the sweet bites, making for a comforting holiday meal centerpiece.
Festive Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses and crackers to balance the sweetness, providing guests with a satisfying range of flavors and textures.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the cake bites, adding a refreshing zing to every bit.
Decadent Hot Chocolate: Topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon, it’s a cozy pairing that will enchant both kids and adults alike.
Spiced Ginger Cookies: These flavorful bites create a delightful combination of textures and spices, making them a perfect accompaniment to the Christmas Cake Bites.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop adds a luscious creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the fruity richness of the cake, creating a delightful balance on the palate.
Peppermint Tea: A soothing option that not only aids digestion after a sweet treat but also introduces a refreshing flavor note to the feast.

Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites Variations

Get ready to express your creativity with Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites, transforming sweetness into something even more magical.

Fruit Swaps: Replace apricots with figs or dates for a deeper, richer flavor. These swaps elevate the sweet profile while keeping it distinctly festive.
Spicy Twist: Substitute cherries with diced crystallized ginger for a delightful zesty kick. The warmth of ginger can really bring out the holidays in every bite.
Non-Alcoholic: For a family-friendly treat, switch brandy with apple juice. This keeps the fruity essence intact without the alcohol, perfect for everyone to enjoy.
Vegan Option: Use flaxseed or chia eggs instead of real eggs for an egg-free version. This swap ensures everyone can indulge in these lovely bites.
Glitz Upgrade: Swap almond paste with a simple layer of edible glitter or colorful sprinkles for a festive look. Kids (and adults!) will love the sparkle!
Chocolate Ganache: Trade white icing for a luscious dark chocolate ganache to indulge chocolate lovers. This rich twist adds a sophisticated element to your cake bites.
Nutty Delight: Instead of raisins, try chopped nuts for added texture and crunch. Walnuts or pistachios can provide a delightful surprise in each bite.
Jam Variety: Use different fruit jams for glazing, like raspberry or apricot, to experiment with flavors. A burst of berry sweetness can complement the festive vibe beautifully.

With these variations, you can personalize your Christmas Cake Bites to cater to every taste at your gatherings this holiday season! Looking for even more delightful recipes to try? Pair these bites with a Blueberry Crisp Cheesecake or a rich Coffee Cheesecake Indulge.

Make Ahead Options

These Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making your holiday baking stress-free! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Soaking the apricots can also be done ahead—just let them rest in brandy overnight until you’re ready to bake. Once baked, cool the bites completely, then decorate them with apricot jam and icing. Finished pieces can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, ensuring they remain just as delicious when you’re ready to serve. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have extra time to savor the festive spirit!

How to Store and Freeze Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites

Airtight Container: Store your Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This will keep them fresh and flavorful.

Freezing: For longer preservation, freeze the bites without marzipan or icing in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw before serving.

Reheating: If desired, reheat the bites briefly in the microwave for a warm treat, keeping them light and fluffy. Enjoy the delightful taste fresh!

Expert Tips for Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites

Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool thoroughly before icing. This prevents the icing from melting or becoming too runny, ensuring a beautiful finish.
Make Ahead: Consider preparing the cake up to two days in advance. It keeps well and can be frozen without the marzipan or icing, allowing for flexible holiday planning.
Presentation Matters: For an elegant touch, slice the bites into smaller pieces, making them perfect as canapés for festive gatherings.
Flavor Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Swap out cherries for diced crystallized ginger or use dried cranberries instead of fresh ones in your Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites for a unique twist.
Sticky Situation: If your icing or marzipan is sticking during the decorating process, dust your work surface with a bit of icing sugar to help with rolling and smoothing.
Store Properly: Keep your decorated bites in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor. They can last up to a week, making them a delightful treat for unexpected guests!

Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Christmas Cake Bites?
Absolutely! When picking dried fruits like apricots, look for those that are plump and free of dark spots. They should be vibrant in color and not overly hard or chewy. For the cherries, opt for bright, firm ones that are quartered and dried, ensuring they contribute a lovely tartness to the flavor profile.

How should I store my Christmas Cake Bites?
To keep your Mary Berry’s Christmas Cake Bites fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which can make them sticky.

Can I freeze these Christmas Cake Bites?
Very! For longer storage, you can freeze the cake bites without the marzipan or icing. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and savor the festive flavors!

What if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
If your Christmas Cake Bites don’t rise well, it may be due to expired baking powder or not creaming the butter and sugar enough. Ensure all your ingredients, especially baking powder, are fresh. Mix your batter until just combined to avoid overworking the flour, which can lead to density rather than fluffiness.

Are there any dietary considerations for your Christmas Cake Bites?
Yes, definitely! If you need to accommodate dietary restrictions, consider using egg substitutes like flaxseed or chia eggs for an egg-free version. For gluten-free options, a gluten-free flour blend works beautifully in this recipe. Always check the labels of your ingredients to prevent allergens, especially if you’re serving guests with food allergies.

How long in advance can I make these Christmas Cake Bites?
I often make these delightful bites up to two days in advance. They actually improve in flavor as they sit! If you plan to serve them later, just ensure they are stored correctly in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for up to three months, which makes holiday planning so much easier!