Introduction
If you love the rich flavors of a traditional Christmas cake but want something quicker and easier to share, these
Brandy Fruit Cupcakes are the perfect solution. Using the same festive ingredients as a classic Christmas cake, these cupcakes combine brandy-soaked dried fruits, almonds, and warm spices in a soft, buttery batter. They fill your kitchen with a delightful holiday aroma and taste every bit as Christmassy as the original cake.
Makes
12 Cupcakes
Ingredients
- 2 cups Mixed Dried Fruit (Raisins, Sultanas, Black Currants, Mixed Peel, Glace Cherries)
- 4 tablespoons Brandy or Rum
- 125g Butter, softened
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (approx. 80g)
- 1 pinch Salt
- 2 Eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 2 teaspoons Mixed Spice (or a mix of Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Clove, etc.)
- 1 & 1/2 cups Self-Raising Flour
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup chopped Walnuts or slivered Almonds (optional)
Method
1. Prepare the Fruit
Place the dried fruit in a heatproof bowl and pour over the brandy or rum. Stir to combine, then microwave for 1 minute to gently warm the mixture. Let it soak for 1 hour to allow the flavors to develop.
2. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 180°C. Line a 12-hole medium muffin tin with paper cases.
3. Make the Batter
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and salt until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and mixed spice until fully combined.
4. Combine Dry & Wet Ingredients
Fold the self-raising flour and milk into the batter using a spatula or large spoon. Gently fold in the soaked fruit (and nuts, if using) until evenly distributed.
5. Bake the Cupcakes
Spoon the mixture into the paper-lined muffin tin. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Allow the cupcakes to rest in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Conclusion
These
Brandy Fruit Cupcakes are a festive, flavorful alternative to traditional Christmas cake. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or enjoying with a warm cup of tea, they capture all the holiday magic in a smaller, more manageable package.
