Name: Deliciously Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcakes for the Holidays
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 82 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup whole milk (or non-dairy alternative); 2 cups mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, chopped dried apricots); 1/2 cup brandy or orange juice (choose one for soaking); 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp milk (for glaze consistency); 12 maraschino cherries; 12 edible holly leaves

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The smell of spices wafting through the kitchen is a sure sign that the holidays are upon us! I find joy in holiday baking, and what brings that cheer better than Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcakes? These little delights capture the essence of the season, combining the sweetness of dried fruits with a hint of warmth from spices, all cloaked in a luscious vanilla glaze. Not only are they a whimsical twist on traditional Christmas desserts, but they’re also incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy family nights. Plus, with the option to soak the fruits in brandy or orange juice, you can tailor these cupcakes to fit any celebration. Ready to indulge your holiday spirit?

Why Choose Christmas Pudding Cupcakes?

Deliciously festive: These cupcakes are a joyful tribute to the holiday season, melding flavors that evoke the spirit of Christmas.

Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create these delightful treats without extensive baking skills.

Customizable flavors: Opt for brandy or orange juice to soak your fruits, making them adaptable for both adult and family-friendly gatherings.

Stunning presentation: The shiny vanilla glaze and festive decorations elevate your dessert table, ensuring they’re a showstopper at any holiday event.

Moist and fluffy texture: The blend of dried fruits and spices yields cupcakes that are both light and moist, satisfying every sweet tooth.

Perfectly paired, serve these cupcakes alongside Avocado Bruschetta for a balanced holiday spread or alongside some classic Bake Chia Pudding for dessert lovers!

Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcake Ingredients

• Here’s what you need to bake these delightful holiday treats!

For the Batter

All-purpose flour – Essential for cupcake stability.
Baking powder – Ensures cupcakes rise properly for a light texture.
Baking soda – Works with acidic ingredients to add lightness.
Ground cinnamon – Provides the warm, cozy flavor of holiday baking.
Ground nutmeg – Enhances the rich spice profile of your cupcakes.
Ground cloves – Adds depth and a comforting holiday aroma.
Unsalted butter – Use softened for easy creaming and rich moisture.
Brown sugar – Brings sweetness and moisture with a delightful caramel-like flavor.
Eggs – Essential for binding ingredients and providing structure.
Vanilla extract – Adds a sweet, aromatic quality that complements the festive flavors.
Whole milk – Provides moisture; feel free to substitute with a non-dairy alternative.
Mixed dried fruit (raisins, currants, chopped dried apricots) – Soak to enhance sweetness and texture.

For Soaking the Fruit

Brandy or orange juice – Use brandy for a sophisticated touch or orange juice for a family-friendly option.

For the Glaze

Powdered sugar – Creates a sweet glaze with a smooth texture.
Milk (for glaze) – Adjusts the consistency of the glaze for easy drizzling.

For Decoration

Maraschino cherries – Adds a festive touch to your cupcakes.
Edible holly leaves – Use fondant or marzipan to create a beautiful holiday aesthetic.

Gather these ingredients to bring the warmth of the holidays to your kitchen with these Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcakes!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcakes

Step 1: Soak the Dried Fruit
Start by soaking your mixed dried fruit in either brandy or orange juice. Place the fruit in a bowl, covering it with the liquid, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight, for deeper flavor. This process softens the fruit and enhances the overall taste, preparing them perfectly for your Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcakes.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving the desired airy texture in your cupcakes. Use an electric mixer for best results, making sure there are no lumps and everything is well-combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Once the butter and sugar are creamed, add the eggs one at a time, mixing until fully integrated after each addition. Next, mix in the vanilla extract until fragrant. This creates a cohesive batter base for your Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcakes, ensuring moisture and flavor are evenly distributed throughout.

Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves until well combined. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with whole milk. Mix until just combined—overmixing will affect the lightness of your cupcakes, so aim for a smooth batter without lumps.

Step 5: Add Soaked Dried Fruits
Carefully fold in the soaked dried fruits into the batter, ensuring you drain any excess liquid first. Use a spatula to gently incorporate the fruit, maintaining the light texture of your mixture. This step not only enhances the flavor of your Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcakes but also adds delightful bursts of sweetness in each bite.

Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners and fill each liner about two-thirds full with batter. Bake in the preheated oven for about 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.

Step 7: Cool the Cupcakes
Once baked, let the cupcakes cool in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. It’s essential to allow them to cool fully before frosting, as this prevents the glaze from melting and ensures a beautiful finish for your Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcakes.

Step 8: Make the Vanilla Glaze
While the cupcakes cool, prepare the vanilla glaze. In a mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, a splash of milk, and a teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired glaze consistency; it should be thick yet runny enough to drizzle.

Step 9: Glaze and Decorate
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, drizzle the vanilla glaze over the tops generously. For a festive touch, decorate with maraschino cherries and edible holly leaves. These decorative elements will enhance the holiday spirit of your Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcakes, making them a delightful centerpiece for any holiday gathering.

Make Ahead Options

These Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcakes are a wonderful option for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can soak the mixed dried fruits in brandy or orange juice up to 24 hours in advance, enhancing their flavor while making the prep seamless. Additionally, you can prepare the cupcake batter and refrigerate it for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply spoon the batter into cupcake liners and bake as directed. To maintain their quality, ensure you glaze the cupcakes just before serving for that perfect finish. Enjoy the time-saving benefits while delighting your guests with these delicious festive treats!

What to Serve with Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcakes

Treat your loved ones to a delightful holiday spread that perfectly complements the cozy flavors of these charming cupcakes.

Cranberry Sauce: Its tartness cuts through the sweetness, balancing the rich flavors of the cupcakes beautifully.
Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm for an aromatic drink that enhances the festive atmosphere while matching the warm spices in the cupcakes.
Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp and creamy cheeses adds a savory contrast to the sweetness, creating a well-rounded dessert table.

Pair the creamy brie with a slice of cupcake for a sweet and savory experience that delights the palate.

Gingerbread Cookies: Enhance the festive vibes with these spiced treats, reinforcing the holiday spirit with every bite.
Chocolate Ganache Tart: The richness of chocolate provides a luxurious dessert option that satisfies the sweet tooth and complements the cupcake flavors.
Festive Fruit Salad: Mix seasonal fruits for a light, refreshing side that balances the sweetness of the cupcakes while adding a pop of color to your table.
Hot Chocolate Bar: Set up an interactive drink station with various toppings, perfect for warming up on chilly winter nights after savoring cupcakes.
Pecan Pie: The nutty, caramel flavors of this classic dessert bring an element of nostalgia and richness that pairs steeply with the cupcakes.

Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcake Variations

Feel free to customize these delightful cupcakes to suit your holiday mood or dietary needs. Let your creativity flow in the kitchen!

Dried Fruit Swap: Substitute mixed dried fruit with cranberries or figs for a unique twist that brightens the flavor profile.
Enjoy the contrast between tart cranberries and the sweetness of your icing, creating delightful surprises in every bite.
Juice Soak Alternative: Replace brandy with non-alcoholic apple juice to soak your fruits, perfect for a family-friendly treat.
This option keeps the festive spirit without the alcohol, making it suitable for all ages.
Nutmeg Topping: Add a sprinkle of nutmeg on top of the glaze for extra holiday spice notes.
This simple step elevates the flavor, making your cupcakes even more inviting with the aroma of spices wafting through the air.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for an inclusive treat.
Your gluten-free friends will appreciate the thoughtfulness, and the cupcakes will remain just as light and fluffy.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch amidst the soft cupcake texture.
This adds a satisfying contrast and a nutty flavor that complements those warm spices beautifully.
Chocolate Glaze: Swap the vanilla glaze for a chocolate one for a rich and decadent flavor.
Imagine the mingling of chocolate and spice bringing joy to your festive table!
Fruity Update: Mix in a small amount of orange zest with the batter for a citrus twist that brightens the flavor.
A touch of tangy zest pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the glaze, making each bite a little burst of sunshine.
Seasonal Spice Mix: Experiment with a spice blend like gingerbread spice to really capture the essence of the holidays.
These little changes can transform the entire cupcake, creating a seasonal experience for everyone to enjoy during your gatherings.

For more delightful recipes, try serving these cupcakes alongside some classic Bake Chia Pudding for dessert lovers or a shareable platter of colorful Avocado Bruschetta for a savory touch!

Expert Tips for Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcakes

Butter Temperature: Ensure your unsalted butter is softened to room temperature for effective creaming with brown sugar; this creates a light batter.
Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing your batter when folding in soaked dried fruits; doing so helps maintain the cupcakes’ fluffy texture.
Baking Time: Always conduct the toothpick test a minute or two before the end of the suggested baking time, as ovens may vary.
Cooling Time: Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack to prevent the vanilla glaze from melting off; patience is key!
Flavor Experiments: Feel free to swap the mixed dried fruit for your favorites like cranberries or figs to add a personal touch.
Glaze Consistency: Adjust the glaze by adding milk in small increments until you achieve the perfect drizzle for your festive Christmas pudding cupcakes.

How to Store and Freeze Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcakes

Airtight Container: Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their moist and fluffy texture.

Refrigeration: If you need to keep them longer, place the container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just ensure they’re well-sealed to avoid drying out.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze unglazed cupcakes in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid; then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Let thaw at room temperature before glazing.

Reheating: If desired, gently warm frozen cupcakes in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy a fresh-out-of-the-oven feel before serving.

Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcakes Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right dried fruit for my cupcakes?
Absolutely! When selecting dried fruits, look for ones that are plump and fragrant. Avoid those with dark spots or excessive stiffness, as these can indicate age or drying out. For an ideal mix, a combination of raisins, currants, and chopped dried apricots provides the perfect balance of sweetness and texture.

How should I store my cupcakes for freshness?
Very simple! Store your Festive Christmas Pudding Cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them moist. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Make sure the container is well-sealed to prevent drying out!

Can I freeze these cupcakes? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your cupcakes, let them cool completely first. Place the unglazed cupcakes on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature, then glaze them as desired.

What if my cupcakes are too dry after baking?
Don’t worry! If you find your cupcakes too dry, several things could be the cause. Ensure you’re measuring your flour correctly; spoon it into the measuring cup rather than scooping it directly from the bag. You can also try adding a little extra milk to the batter next time or replacing part of the all-purpose flour with cake flour for added moisture.

Are these cupcakes safe for kids if I soak the fruit in brandy?
Very thoughtful! For a family-friendly version, soak the dried fruit in orange juice instead of brandy. This keeps all the sweetness and flavors while ensuring it’s still suitable for kids. If you prefer the richness of brandy for adult gatherings, just create two batches—one with brandy and one with juice!

How long does it take for the frosting to harden?
Great question! The vanilla glaze generally takes about 15-30 minutes to set at room temperature. For a quicker set, you can place the frosted cupcakes in the fridge for about 10 minutes. This will give them a beautiful shiny finish while adding that delectable sweetness we all love!