Name: Mini Christmas Drip Cakes with Chocolate Ganache Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 2 large Eggs; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (opt for pure vanilla); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1/4 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 cup Milk; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 8 ounces Dark Chocolate (or milk chocolate for sweeter option); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (sifted); Festive Toppings (cranberries, rosemary, cinnamon sticks, gold sugar pearls) (for decoration)

As I entered the kitchen, the warm scents of vanilla and chocolate instantly whisked me away into a world of holiday bliss. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Mini Christmas Drip Cakes with Chocolate Ganache, a festive delight sure to steal the show at any gathering. With their charming size, these cakes are perfect for sharing or gifting, allowing you to express your culinary creativity without feeling overwhelmed. The best part? They come together quickly using everyday ingredients and can be customized to suit various dietary preferences, including a gluten-free option. These bite-sized wonders are more than just pretty treats; they embody the spirit of the season, making every festive moment a little sweeter! So, are you ready to create your own holiday magic in the kitchen?

Why Make Mini Christmas Drip Cakes?

Perfect for Celebrations: These delightful mini cakes are the ideal centerpiece for your holiday gatherings, adding a festive touch that dazzles your guests.

Customizable: With endless decorating options, from cranberries to gingerbread cookies, you can let your creativity shine. This makes them a fabulous choice for any taste!

Light and Fluffy: The airy texture of the cakes combined with rich chocolate ganache creates an irresistible contrast that’s sure to delight.

Quick to Prepare: You’ll whip these up in no time, making them a hassle-free option for holiday baking.

Gifting Made Easy: Their charming size makes them perfect for sharing and gifting, letting you spread holiday cheer with beautiful homemade treats. If you’re looking for more sweet inspirations, check out these tempting Mini Rolo Cheesecakes and Peanut Butter Chocolate options that will also impress your friends and family!

Mini Christmas Drip Cakes Ingredients

• These are the essentials you’ll need to create your magical festive treats!

For the Cakes

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture to the cakes; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter and helps create a tender cake.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy creaming.
Eggs – Contributes to fluffiness and structure; use large eggs for best results.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
Baking Powder – Provides leavening for a light texture.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
Milk – Adds moisture and helps achieve the desired batter consistency.

For the Ganache

Heavy Cream – Used for making the chocolate ganache, providing richness.
Dark Chocolate – The base for the ganache, offering a deep chocolate flavor; milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter option.

For the Topping

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes whipped cream for topping; sift before use for a smoother finish.
Festive Toppings (e.g., cranberries, rosemary, cinnamon sticks, gold sugar pearls) – Enhance aesthetic appeal and add holiday spirit.

These Mini Christmas Drip Cakes with Chocolate Ganache are not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mini Christmas Drip Cakes with Chocolate Ganache

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). While the oven warms, grease your mini cake pans or muffin tins with butter or non-stick spray, then line with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking. This step is crucial for achieving those perfectly fluffy Mini Christmas Drip Cakes.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream them together on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which is key for the light texture of your cakes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add two large eggs to your butter-sugar mix, one at a time, mixing well on low speed after each addition. Then, stir in the pure vanilla extract until fully blended. This step will enhance the flavor and create a smooth batter for your Mini Christmas Drip Cakes with Chocolate Ganache.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry mix. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick, ready for baking.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared mini cake pans, filling them about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as you want a gentle golden color on top for that festive touch.

Step 6: Cool the Cakes
Once baked, remove the pans from the oven and let the cakes sit for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling stage is crucial; decorating while warm can lead to melty ganache or whipped cream.

Step 7: Whip the Cream
While the cakes are cooling, take a bowl and beat together heavy cream with powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer on medium-high speed for about 3-5 minutes until stiff peaks form, creating a light and fluffy whipped topping for your Mini Christmas Drip Cakes.

Step 8: Prepare the Ganache
In a heatproof bowl, warm the heavy cream until it’s steaming, but not boiling. Remove from heat and immediately pour it over chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for about 2-3 minutes, then whisk until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Allow the ganache to cool until it thickens slightly, perfect for drizzling.

Step 9: Assemble and Decorate
Place your cooled mini cakes on a decorative tray. Drizzle the luscious chocolate ganache over each cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a delightful visual. Pipe or spoon on the whipped cream and finish with your choice of festive toppings, like cranberries or gold sugar pearls, to enhance both flavor and presentation.

Mini Christmas Drip Cakes with Chocolate Ganache Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions to make your festive cakes even more special!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to ensure everyone can enjoy these treats without worries. It’s an easy swap that retains flavor and texture!
Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and use almond or oat milk in the batter. You’d be surprised how tasty dairy-free can be!
Richer Ganache: For a deeper flavor, swap dark chocolate for a high-quality bittersweet chocolate. This creates a rich, luxurious ganache that will wow your guests.
Exotic Flavors: Add a splash of orange liqueur to your ganache for a sophisticated twist. It pairs wonderfully with chocolate and adds a festive touch!
Lighter Version: Create mini sponge cakes by reducing the sugar by half and substituting half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. You’ll enjoy a delightfully light version!
Unique Toppings: Go beyond traditional decorations and use crushed peppermint candies or cinnamon-infused hazelnuts for a seasonal twist. These will add a pop of flavor and crunch!
Personalized Shapes: Use various silicone molds for different shapes—think holiday trees or stars! This simple change can make your dessert table even more eye-catching.
Mini Dessert Platter: Create a dessert platter by pairing these mini cakes with other favorites like Bakery Style Chocolate cookies or Dark Chocolate Raspberry macarons for a truly festive spread!

Embrace the spirit of creativity this holiday season and tailor these Mini Christmas Drip Cakes with Chocolate Ganache to suit your and your loved ones’ tastes!

What to Serve with Mini Christmas Drip Cakes with Chocolate Ganache?

Delightful bites of holiday magic deserve perfect companions that elevate your festive table and bring warmth to every gathering.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool sweetness pairs beautifully with rich ganache, balancing every chocolatey bite.
Spiced Chai Latte: A warm, aromatic drink that brings cozy spices into the mix, perfectly complementing the festive flavors of your cakes.
Mulled Wine: Its rich, spiced notes echo the holiday spirit, making each sip a perfect match for the sweet decadence of the cakes.
Fresh Berries: Tangy raspberries or sweet strawberries add a refreshing burst that contrasts delightfully with the chocolate.
Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: These can bring an extra layer of holiday cheer, echoing the warmth of your Mini Christmas Drip Cakes.
Nutty Biscotti: Pairing with a crunchy texture, these will offer a delightful contrast that enhances the overall dessert experience.

For an extra touch, serve these delights on a beautifully decorated platter to impress your guests and create a festive atmosphere!

Expert Tips for Mini Christmas Drip Cakes

• Cool Before Decorating: Allow cakes to cool completely to prevent melting of the whipped cream and ganache.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for pure vanilla and high-quality chocolate for the best flavor in your Mini Christmas Drip Cakes.

• Consistency Matters: Control ganache thickness by letting it cool appropriately; it should be thick enough to drip but not run too fast.

• Piping Perfection: For a professional look, use a piping bag with a star nozzle to create beautiful swirls of whipped cream.

• Freeze for Freshness: Wrap undecorated cakes tightly for freezing; decorate just before serving to maintain freshness and visual appeal.

• Taste Testing Variations: Don’t be afraid to experiment with alternative toppings like candied citrus or chocolate shavings; they can add delightful surprises!

Storage Tips for Mini Christmas Drip Cakes

Room Temperature: These cakes can be kept at room temperature for up to 1 day. Store them in a cool, dry place, covered with a clean kitchen towel to prevent drying out.

Fridge: If you have leftovers, store the Mini Christmas Drip Cakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight, enhancing your festive dessert experience!

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap undecorated cakes tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Decorate just before serving for the freshest presentation.

Reheating: If desired, gently warm the cakes in a microwave or under a low broiler for a few seconds to revive their fluffy texture. Be cautious not to overheat!

Make Ahead Options

These Mini Christmas Drip Cakes with Chocolate Ganache are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to dedicate more time to enjoying the festivities! You can prepare the cakes up to 24 hours in advance; just bake, then let them cool entirely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap to keep them moist. The chocolate ganache can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the ganache gently until it reaches a pourable consistency. Decorate the cakes with whipped cream and festive toppings right before serving to ensure they look fresh and appealing. This way, you’ll have stunning desserts ready to impress your guests with minimal last-minute effort!

Mini Christmas Drip Cakes with Chocolate Ganache Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my cakes?
Absolutely! For the best Mini Christmas Drip Cakes, make sure your eggs are fresh; check the expiration date and choose those with no cracks. For butter, it should be at room temperature—this means it’s soft and easy to cream with sugar. When picking vanilla extract, go for pure rather than imitation for richer flavor. And, if you’re using any festive toppings like cranberries, choose vibrant, plump ones without any dark spots!

What is the best way to store leftover Mini Christmas Drip Cakes?
Very! If you have any leftover cakes, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you’ll maintain their fluffy texture while allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully overnight, enhancing your dessert experience. If you like to make ahead, undecorated cakes can be kept in the fridge or freeze them, as explained next!

Can I freeze Mini Christmas Drip Cakes? How?
Absolutely! To freeze, first, let the cakes cool completely. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air gets to them, then cover with aluminum foil for added protection against freezer burn. They can safely be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months! Just be sure to decorate them once thawed, right before serving, to keep those festive toppings looking fresh and appealing.

What can I do if my ganache is too runny?
Don’t worry, this is a common issue! If your ganache is too runny, simply let it cool longer. Set it aside for about 10-15 minutes, then try whisking it again; this can help it thicken. If it’s still not thickening, you might need to add a bit more chopped chocolate—start with a tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency. Just remember, a perfectly drippy ganache should flow nicely but hold its shape when drizzled!

Are there any dietary considerations for these cakes?
Of course! These Mini Christmas Drip Cakes with Chocolate Ganache can easily be made gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your chocolate and any toppings are also gluten-free if needed. Always check labels, especially for allergies, as some toppings may contain nuts or other allergens. Enjoy the deliciousness worry-free!