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The first bite of these Vegan Chocolate Cranberry Christmas Mini Cakes instantly transports me to a cozy holiday gathering, where laughter fills the air and sweet aromas mingle with the chill of winter. Imagine the rich chocolate, perfectly balanced by the bright tartness of cranberry chia jam, nestled in fluffy gluten-free cake. Whether you’re hosting friends or savoring a quiet evening by the fire, these mini cakes are not just a dessert; they’re a festive experience that brings joy to your table.

As the holidays approach, creating a treat that caters to every dietary need can feel daunting, but this recipe makes it a breeze. With vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free credentials, you’ll please every palate while keeping things simple—and delicious. Plus, the delightful combination of flavors and textures make these cakes a crowd-pleaser. Ready to impress your guests and indulge in the holiday spirit? Let’s dive into this festive recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Why are Chocolate Cranberry Christmas Mini Cakes a must-try?

Deliciously Wholesome: These mini cakes offer a fantastic blend of rich chocolate and vibrant cranberry, satisfying your sweet tooth while keeping it healthy.

Easy to Make: The straightforward preparation ensures anyone can whip up these delights, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers.

Holiday Cheer: Their festive appearance and flavor make them a showstopper at any gathering, delighting guests of all ages.

Diet-Friendly: With vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free ingredients, you’ll cater to diverse dietary needs effortlessly.

Versatile Treat: Switch up the toppings or add cranberry puree for a moist twist; these cakes never get boring!

Elevate your holiday dessert game and embrace the joy of baking with these iconic mini cakes!

Chocolate Cranberry Christmas Mini Cakes Ingredients

For the Cake

Quinoa and Brown Rice Flour Mix – Provides gluten-free structure and texture; can be substituted with a store-bought gluten-free flour mix.
Aquafaba – Acts as an egg replacement to add moisture and binding; use 1/4 cup of liquid from canned chickpeas, no whipping required unless a fluffier texture is desired.
Maple Syrup – This sweetener adds a rich flavor; you can substitute it with agave syrup or brown sugar if you prefer.
Rice Milk – Adds moisture to keep cakes fluffy; substitute with any plant-based milk or regular milk if you’re not following a vegan diet.
Baking Powder – Essential for leavening, ensuring that the cakes rise beautifully.

For the Cranberry Chia Jam

Fresh Cranberries – Provide the tartness you’ll love; they can be replaced with frozen cranberries if fresh ones aren’t available.
Chia Seeds – Helps thicken the jam naturally while adding a boost of nutrients; ground chia seeds can be used for a smoother texture.
Additional Maple Syrup – Enhances sweetness; adjust according to your taste preference.

For the Dark Chocolate Ganache

Vegan Dark Chocolate – Gives the ganache richness and complements the tartness; ensure you choose quality chocolate for the best flavor.
Coconut Cream – Adds a smooth and luxurious texture to the ganache; can be substituted with a plant-based cream.

Enjoy making these delightful Chocolate Cranberry Christmas Mini Cakes that are guaranteed to be a hit at your festive gatherings!

How to Make Chocolate Cranberry Christmas Mini Cakes

Prepare Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the quinoa and brown rice flour mix, aquafaba, maple syrup, rice milk, and baking powder. Stir until smooth and well-combined for a fluffy batter.
Bake: Pour the prepared batter into a greased 9-inch square pan and spread it evenly. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool & Cut: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the cake to cool completely. Use a 2-inch round cutter to punch out mini cakes; you should get about 12 mini cakes.
Make Chia Jam: In a saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, chia seeds, and maple syrup. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened, creating a sweet-tart cranberry chia jam.
Assemble: Take one mini cake, spoon a generous layer of cranberry chia jam on top, and place another mini cake on top. Repeat for the rest of the mini cakes.
Top with Ganache: Prepare the dark chocolate ganache by melting vegan dark chocolate with coconut cream until smooth. Drizzle the ganache generously over the assembled mini cakes.
Serve: Optionally, garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a festive touch. Enjoy the flavors of the season!

Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for a festive finish before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Chocolate Cranberry Christmas Mini Cakes are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance by baking, cooling, and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the cranberry chia jam can be made up to 5 days ahead and stored for optimal flavor and freshness. To maintain the quality, be sure to refrigerate everything properly and assemble the mini cakes shortly before serving. Simply layer the jam between the cake rounds and drizzle with chocolate ganache when ready to enjoy, ensuring they’re just as delightful as when freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Cranberry Christmas Mini Cakes

Room Temperature: Keep mini cakes at room temperature for a few hours if serving immediately; cover lightly with a cloth to prevent drying out.

Fridge: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor; they’ll taste just as delightful even chilled!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled mini cakes in an airtight container for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: If desired, gently reheat the mini cakes in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy them warm, enhancing their chocolatey goodness!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Cranberry Christmas Mini Cakes

Perfect Flour Blend: Use a mix of three gluten-free flours for the best texture. Avoid just one type, as it can result in a dense mini cake.
Moisture Control: Gluten-free flours absorb more liquid. Adjust the rice milk if necessary to achieve a smooth batter consistency.
Cranberry Jam Technique: When making the cranberry chia jam, monitor cooking time closely. If overcooked, it may become too thick or lose its tart flavor.
Garnish Wisely: Skip potentially toxic decorations, like holly leaves. Fresh rosemary pairs beautifully without any risk, adding lovely color and aroma.
Storage Solution: To maintain freshness, refrigerate these Chocolate Cranberry Christmas Mini Cakes in an airtight container. They can also be frozen for up to a month!

What to Serve with Chocolate Cranberry Christmas Mini Cakes?

Imagine the warm glow of a holiday gathering paired with treats that tantalize the taste buds. A delightful array of sides will elevate your dessert experience beautifully.

Vegan Whipped Cream:
A dollop atop the mini cakes adds a luscious creaminess that enhances every bite. It perfectly balances the rich chocolate and tart cranberry.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate:
Nothing warms the heart like a steaming cup. The minty freshness complements the cakes, making for a cozy, festive pairing.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts:
Their savory, slightly caramelized flavor brings a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the mini cakes, creating a well-rounded holiday meal.
Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Compote:
This warm, spiced addition can be served alongside or drizzled over the cakes for a delightful fruitiness that ties the flavors together.
Almond Milk Eggnog:
Creamy and festive, this drink offers a nutty sweetness that resonates beautifully with the chocolate and cranberry combinations, making it a delightful seasonal favorite.
Gingerbread Cookies:
These classic holiday treats introduce a spicy crunch that pairs well. Serve alongside for added texture and warmth, inviting nostalgia into your kitchen.
Pecan Pie Bars:
Their luscious, nutty sweetness echoes the holiday spirit while providing an appealing contrast to the chocolaty mini cakes.
Fresh Fruit Salad:
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits lightens the palate and provides a vibrant burst of color on your dessert table.

Create a memorable holiday spread that celebrates flavors and textures, bringing joy to everyone at your gathering!

Chocolate Cranberry Christmas Mini Cakes Variations

Get creative in the kitchen and elevate these festive mini cakes with delightful twists that will surprise and delight your taste buds!

Moisture Boost: Add 120ml (1/2 cup) of cranberry puree into the batter for a super moist cake. This twist not only enhances the texture but also intensifies the cranberry flavor. The result is a luscious treat that feels like a warm hug!
Whipped Topping: Replace the dark chocolate ganache with vegan whipped cream for a light and airy cake experience. This refreshing topping balances the richness of the cake beautifully while adding a whimsical touch to your dessert presentation.
Zesty Flavor: Incorporate zest from one orange or lemon into the batter to brighten up the flavors. The citrus notes surprise your palate, complementing the chocolate and cranberry with a refreshing zing.
Nutty Crunch: For an added crunch, sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking. This texture twist adds an enjoyable contrast to the soft cake, making each bite interesting and delightful.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the chocolate ganache for a warm, spicy undertone. This unexpected heat plays wonderfully with the sweet and tart flavors, creating a memorable flavor explosion.
Coconut Cream: Swap out the coconut cream in the ganache for a delicious chocolate coconut drizzle. Simply melt vegan dark chocolate with coconut oil to achieve a luscious topping that’s infused with tropical vibes.
Jam Layer: Try adding a layer of raspberry or strawberry chia jam in between the mini cakes for a different sweet-tart experience. This addition not only diversifies the flavors but also makes for a stunning contrast of colors.
Ginger Spice: Mix in ground ginger or chopped crystallized ginger to the batter for a warm, spicy twist. This change introduces a lovely warmth that perfectly matches the holiday season, making each bite feel like a celebration.

Chocolate Cranberry Christmas Mini Cakes Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best cranberries for the jam?
Absolutely! Look for fresh cranberries that are bright red and firm to the touch. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as they may not be as fresh. If fresh cranberries aren’t available, frozen cranberries can also work beautifully, just ensure they are not thawed before you cook them.

How should I store leftover mini cakes?
I recommend storing your Chocolate Cranberry Christmas Mini Cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To keep them from drying out, ensure they are well-sealed, and you can enjoy them chilled or warmed slightly in the microwave!

Can I freeze these mini cakes for later?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze the assembled mini cakes! Just place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to serve, thaw them in the fridge overnight. If you want them warm, just microwave them for about 10-15 seconds before serving.

What if my batter is too thick or too runny?
The more the merrier with adjustments! If your batter is too thick, add a little more rice milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Conversely, if your batter is too runny, you can stir in a bit more quinoa and brown rice flour mix to thicken it. Just be sure to mix well after any additions.

Are these mini cakes suitable for people with allergies?
Very! These Chocolate Cranberry Christmas Mini Cakes are vegan, gluten-free, and nut-free, making them a perfect dessert choice for many dietary restrictions. However, always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure no hidden allergens, especially with processed items like chocolate and dairy-free cream.

How can I enhance the flavor of the cakes?
For an added depth of flavor, consider mixing in some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into your batter. Alternatively, a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract can elevate the taste beautifully! Experimenting is part of the fun, so feel free to customize them to your liking.