Mini Christmas Drip Cakes

The holiday season brings a sprinkle of magic, and what better way to celebrate than with delightful Mini Christmas Drip Cakes? These charming little treats are not only adorable but also packed with rich flavors and festive flair. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home, they promise to bring smiles and sweet memories to your holiday celebrations.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: 6 mini cakes
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 275
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 150mg

Why Make This Mini Christmas Drip Cakes

Mini Christmas Drip Cakes are the perfect festive dessert that combines the joy of cake with a decadent chocolate drip. These bite-sized wonders are not only visually appealing but incredibly delicious. Each cake offers a soft, buttery texture with a luscious chocolate topping, making them an irresistible treat. They are an ideal centerpiece for any holiday dessert table, and their smaller size makes them easy to grab and enjoy. Plus, they allow you to express your creativity with holiday-themed decorations, ensuring every bite feels special.

How to Make Mini Christmas Drip Cakes

## Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup chocolate chips (for dripping)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Decorative elements like sprinkles, fruit, or holiday-themed decorations

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a mini cake tin with parchment paper. This ensures that your cakes will release easily and have a nice shape.

Step 2: Mixing

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a tender cake.

Step 3: Cooking

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely in the tin before removing.

Step 4: Finishing

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it is hot but not boiling. Pour it over the chocolate chips in a mixing bowl and let it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth to create a luscious chocolate ganache. Drizzle the ganache over the cooled cakes and decorate with sprinkles or festive elements to make them shine.

How to Serve Mini Christmas Drip Cakes

These mini cakes are perfect for any holiday gathering. Serve them on a festive platter for a beautiful presentation. You can also pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. They make great gifts too—just box them up with a decorative ribbon!

How to Store Mini Christmas Drip Cakes

Store the cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. If you want to keep the cakes fresh even longer, consider freezing them without toppings for up to a month; just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

Expert Tips for Perfect Mini Christmas Drip Cakes

• Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
• Use a kitchen scale for accurate ingredient measurements, especially for the flour.
• For an extra chocolatey experience, feel free to add more chocolate chips to the batter.
• Allow the chocolate ganache to cool slightly before drizzling for a thicker drizzle.
• Experiment with different decorations like edible glitter or themed cake toppers to match your holiday decor.

Delicious Variations

• Red Velvet Mini Drip Cakes: Substitute half of the flour with cocoa powder and add red food coloring for a festive twist.
• Carrot Mini Cakes: Incorporate grated carrots and spices for a warm, spiced flavor during the holidays.
• Lemon Drip Cakes: Add lemon zest and a splash of lemon juice to the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor, then top with white chocolate ganache.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
  Yes, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend instead of all-purpose flour. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for better structure.

• What can I use instead of eggs?
  You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).

• How do I make the chocolate ganache thicker?
  To achieve a thicker consistency, use more chocolate chips in the ganache mixture or let it cool for a bit before drizzling.

• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
  Yes! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Then, prepare the ganache and decorate them on the day you plan to serve them.

• What type of chocolate works best for dripping?
  Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips work great for a rich flavor. Milk chocolate can also be used if you prefer a sweeter taste.

Conclusion

Mini Christmas Drip Cakes are a delightful way to spread holiday cheer and enjoy festive flavors. Their charming appearance paired with the rich chocolate drip makes them a standout treat at any gathering. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or simply indulging yourself, these mini cakes are sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the holiday baking fun begin! Happy baking!