Mary Berry Mini Apple And Almond Cakes Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking for a deliciously comforting treat that combines the warmth of apples with the richness of almonds, then you absolutely have to try Mary Berry’s mini apple and almond cakes. These little cakes are perfect for when you want something sweet but not overly indulgent, and they’re a great way to use up any extra apples you have lying around.

With Mary Berry’s classic touch, you can trust that these cakes will be perfectly moist, full of flavor, and just the right size for a quick snack or a charming dessert. Plus, they’re easy to make and sure to impress anyone you share them with!.

Mary Berry Mini Apple And Almond Cakes Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Mini Apple and Almond Cakes, you’ll need a well-balanced selection of ingredients that combine freshness, richness, and a subtle sweetness. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to create these delicate and delicious cakes:

• Apples (2 medium-sized) – Granny Smith apples are often a great choice for baking due to their tartness, which contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the almond and sugar. These will provide both flavor and moisture to the cakes.
• Butter (100g, softened) – The foundation of any good cake batter, butter adds richness, tenderness, and flavor. It will help to create a smooth, creamy texture when mixed with sugar.
• Caster Sugar (100g) – A finer sugar, caster sugar dissolves more easily into the batter, contributing to the cake’s light, airy texture while sweetening the mixture.
• Self-raising Flour (100g) – Self-raising flour is perfect for this recipe, as it has added baking powder that helps the cakes rise and become light and fluffy.
• Ground Almonds (50g) – This is the secret ingredient that adds a nutty richness and depth of flavor to the cakes. The almonds provide a subtle, yet distinct, sweetness and moistness, and give the cakes a beautiful texture.
• Eggs (2 large) – Eggs bind the ingredients together and help to provide structure. They will also contribute to the fluffiness of the cakes, creating a light, tender crumb.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Vanilla extract enhances the flavor profile of the cake, adding a fragrant sweetness that complements the almond and apple.
• Cinnamon (½ tsp) – A warm spice that works harmoniously with both apples and almonds, cinnamon adds a subtle depth of flavor and enhances the overall fragrance of the cakes.
• Baking Powder (½ tsp) – Although self-raising flour already contains baking powder, this small addition will provide an extra boost to ensure the cakes rise beautifully.
• Icing Sugar (for dusting) – The finishing touch! A light dusting of icing sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness, enhancing the cakes’ visual appeal while complementing the flavor.

Equipment Needed

To bake Mary Berry’s Mini Apple and Almond Cakes, having the right equipment will ensure your process runs smoothly, and your cakes turn out perfectly. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowls – A couple of mixing bowls in various sizes will be essential for creaming the butter and sugar, as well as for combining the dry and wet ingredients.
• Electric Mixer or Hand Whisk – An electric mixer is ideal for beating the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. While a hand whisk could work, using an electric mixer will help you achieve the perfect consistency faster and with less effort.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements are crucial when baking. Measuring cups and spoons will ensure you add the right amounts of each ingredient, particularly when working with smaller quantities like the baking powder or vanilla extract.
• Grater (for Apples) – A fine grater or box grater is helpful for grating the apples. This will allow you to evenly distribute the apple throughout the batter, ensuring every bite has that delicious fruity sweetness.
• Cupcake Tin or Mini Cake Molds – You will need a standard 12-cup muffin tin or mini cake molds to bake these individual cakes. These molds will give them their charming size and shape.
• Cupcake Liners – While you could grease the tin, using cupcake liners ensures the cakes come out easily and makes cleaning up a breeze.
• Sieve – A sieve is great for sifting the flour and baking powder, ensuring there are no lumps and your dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Cooling Rack – After baking, a cooling rack allows the cakes to cool evenly and prevents them from becoming soggy at the bottom.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Mini Apple And Almond Cakes

Making Mary Berry’s Mini Apple and Almond Cakes is relatively simple, but like all baking recipes, it’s important to follow each step closely. Here’s how to make them:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C for fan-assisted ovens) or 350°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. Grate the apples and set them aside.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and caster sugar. Using an electric mixer or hand whisk, beat the mixture until it becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. This will usually take about 3-4 minutes. The more air you beat into the mixture, the lighter the cakes will be.

3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
   Crack the eggs into a small bowl, then add them one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar. Beat well after each addition to ensure the eggs are fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, sift the self-raising flour, ground almonds, cinnamon, and baking powder together. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly mixed and helps to avoid lumps. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding them in gently.

5. Incorporate the Grated Apples:
   Stir the grated apples into the batter. The moisture from the apples will keep the cakes soft and add a lovely fruity flavor. Be sure the apples are well-distributed throughout the batter.

6. Fill the Cake Molds:
   Spoon the mixture into the prepared cupcake tin, filling each mold about three-quarters full. The batter should mound slightly over the top of the molds.

7. Bake the Cakes:
   Place the tin into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of a cake comes out clean. The cakes should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.

8. Cool and Dust with Icing Sugar:
   Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. When they are cool, dust them lightly with icing sugar to finish.

Expert Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Butter: For the best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature before starting. Cold butter can result in a dense batter, while softened butter creates a light, fluffy texture.

2. Don’t Skip the Grating: Grating the apples, rather than chopping them, ensures that the apples are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This way, every bite will have that lovely apple flavor.

3. Adjust the Spice Level: If you love cinnamon, feel free to add a little extra. For a different flavor profile, you could also experiment with a pinch of nutmeg or even ginger to give the cakes a unique twist.

4. Try Different Apple Varieties: While Granny Smith apples are often recommended for their tartness, you could try other varieties like Braeburn or Pink Lady for a different flavor experience. Just make sure to balance the sweetness of the apples with the sugar in the recipe.

5. Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix only until the flour is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense, heavy cakes, which is the opposite of what you want for a light, fluffy texture.

Mary Berry’s Mini Apple and Almond Cakes are a true delight-a perfect balance of moist, tender cake with the sweetness of apples and the richness of almonds. The simple yet effective use of ingredients creates a mouthwatering treat that’s ideal for any occasion.

Whether you’re serving them for a tea party, a casual gathering, or just as a sweet snack with your coffee, these mini cakes will impress every time. With a few expert tips, you can make sure these cakes turn out perfectly, every time.

Their delicious flavor and inviting texture make them an irresistible option for bakers of all levels. Happy baking!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Mini Apple And Almond Cakes

Mary Berry’s Mini Apple and Almond Cakes are already a delightful combination of sweet, nutty, and fruity flavors, but there are plenty of fun ways to tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or make them even more exciting. Whether you’re in the mood to experiment with different flavors or cater to specific dietary preferences, these mini cakes are versatile enough to handle it all.

1. Spiced Apple and Almond Cakes: To add some warmth and depth of flavor, you can mix in a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and even cloves. These spices pair perfectly with the natural sweetness of the apples and almonds, making the cakes ideal for the colder months. Just a teaspoon of cinnamon can transform the flavor profile, giving your cakes a festive, spiced twist.

2. Citrus Zest Variation: Add a burst of freshness by incorporating some finely grated zest from an orange or lemon into the batter. The citrus zest will not only brighten up the flavor but also complement the apples beautifully. A touch of citrus works wonders in lifting the overall taste, making the cakes feel even lighter and more refreshing.

3. Berry-Filled Mini Cakes: Want to make these cakes even fruitier?

   You can add fresh or frozen berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries into the batter. These berries, once baked, will add little pockets of tartness and color to the mini cakes. For an added touch, sprinkle a few extra berries on top before baking for a more visually appealing finish.

4. Gluten-Free Version: For those with gluten sensitivities, it’s simple to make this recipe gluten-free. Swap the regular flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend or use almond flour to enhance the almond flavor even further. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, but this variation ensures everyone can enjoy these delicious treats.

5. Vegan Alternative: For a vegan-friendly version, you can substitute the eggs with flaxseed or chia egg replacements. Simply mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseeds or chia seeds with three tablespoons of water, let it sit for a few minutes to form a gel-like consistency, and add it to the batter instead of the eggs. Additionally, replace the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil to keep the recipe entirely vegan.

6. Caramelized Apple and Almond Topping: To elevate the texture and flavor, you can top your mini cakes with thin slices of caramelized apple and a sprinkle of toasted almonds. To make the topping, gently cook the apple slices in a pan with a bit of sugar and butter until golden and soft. Once the cakes have baked, arrange the caramelized apples on top for a gorgeous finish.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have some Mini Apple and Almond Cakes left after your meal or gathering, storing them properly is key to ensuring they stay fresh and delicious. Here are some best practices to keep them in perfect condition:

1. Cool the Cakes Completely: Before storing any leftover cakes, ensure they are fully cooled down. Placing hot cakes in an airtight container can create condensation, making them soggy and potentially ruining their texture. Allow them to cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

2. Use an Airtight Container: For the best results, store the cakes in an airtight container to preserve their moisture and texture. If you don’t have an airtight container, you can wrap each individual cake in plastic wrap before placing them in a resealable bag or another storage container. This will help prevent the cakes from drying out.

3. Refrigeration for Freshness: Although these mini cakes are moist and delicious on their own, if you want to keep them for an extended period, it’s best to refrigerate them. Storing them in the fridge will help maintain their freshness for up to 3 to 4 days. However, if you plan to consume them within a day or two, you can keep them at room temperature in an airtight container.

4. Freezing for Long-Term Storage: If you want to store them for a longer period, these mini cakes freeze really well. Wrap each cake in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the oven for a few minutes.

5. Avoid Storing with Frosting or Toppings: If you’ve added extra toppings like frosting or caramelized apples, it’s best to store the cakes separately from these additions. Frosting or toppings might get soggy when stored, so adding them just before serving will keep everything looking and tasting its best.

What Goes Well With Mini Apple And Almond Cakes

While Mary Berry’s Mini Apple and Almond Cakes are scrumptious on their own, pairing them with the right accompaniments can take the flavor experience to a whole new level. Here are some perfect pairings:

1. Clotted Cream or Whipped Cream: These cakes are deliciously moist and tender, so serving them with a dollop of rich, creamy clotted cream or lightly sweetened whipped cream makes for a heavenly combination. The richness of the cream complements the almond and apple flavors, making each bite feel indulgent.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream: If you’re serving the mini cakes as a dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a great match. The cold, creamy ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, nutty cakes, adding a different texture and a touch of sweetness.

3. Fruit Compote: For a more robust fruity pairing, serve the mini cakes with a warm fruit compote, such as a berry medley or spiced apple compote. The fruit will add another layer of flavor that enhances the natural apple in the cakes while providing a vibrant, juicy element.

4. Tea or Coffee: As a traditional British dessert, these mini cakes go perfectly with a cup of tea. Whether you prefer Earl Grey, Darjeeling, or a floral chamomile, the lightness of the tea balances the richness of the cakes. Alternatively, a hot cup of coffee, especially a strong espresso or cappuccino, also complements the almond flavor and adds an energizing touch.

5. Cheese: For a more savory pairing, try serving the cakes with a small slice of mild cheese, such as a creamy brie or a sharp cheddar. The contrast between the sweetness of the cakes and the saltiness of the cheese creates an interesting and satisfying balance of flavors.

6. Chopped Nuts or Caramelized Almonds: If you’re a fan of extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped toasted almonds or caramelized hazelnuts over the cakes before serving. The nuts will add texture, and the caramelized coating brings out the natural sweetness of the cakes, intensifying the overall flavor.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Mini Apple and Almond Cakes are a perfect balance of flavors-moist, sweet, and nutty, with a comforting richness that feels indulgent yet light. By exploring different recipe variations, you can customize these cakes to suit a wide range of tastes, dietary preferences, and occasions. From spiced versions to gluten-free or vegan alternatives, there’s no end to the possibilities.

When it comes to storing leftovers, following simple practices like cooling the cakes completely, using airtight containers, and refrigerating or freezing them will ensure that they remain fresh for days. And, of course, there’s no shortage of options to enhance the experience with thoughtful pairings like cream, ice cream, tea, or even cheese.

Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot beverage or as part of a decadent dessert spread, these mini cakes are versatile enough to be a hit at any time of year. With their soft crumb and flavorful combination of apple and almond, Mary Berry’s creation is sure to become a beloved treat in your repertoire.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Mini Apple And Almond Cakes?

The main ingredients for Mary Berry’s mini apple and almond cakes include self-raising flour, ground almonds, butter, caster sugar, eggs, milk, grated apple, and a dash of almond extract. These ingredients come together to create a light, moist, and nutty cake with a delicious apple flavor.

Can I Substitute The Self-raising Flour In The Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute self-raising flour with plain (all-purpose) flour and add baking powder. For every 225g of plain flour, add 2 teaspoons of baking powder to achieve a similar rise.

How Do I Store Mary Berry’s Mini Apple And Almond Cakes?

To store these mini apple and almond cakes, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in cling film before freezing.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Mini Apple And Almond Cakes Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make these cakes ahead of time. They will stay fresh for a couple of days if stored properly. You can also freeze them, as mentioned above, and thaw them before serving.

What Kind Of Apples Work Best For This Recipe?

For this recipe, it’s best to use firm, slightly tart apples such as Bramley, Granny Smith, or Gala. These varieties add a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the cake and help maintain their texture during baking.

Is There A Way To Make Mary Berry’s Mini Apple And Almond Cakes Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make these cakes gluten-free by substituting the self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the baking powder you use is gluten-free as well. The texture may vary slightly but should still be delicious!

Can I Add Other Fruits Or Nuts To The Recipe?

Yes, you can definitely experiment by adding other fruits such as pears, berries, or even dried fruits like raisins or sultanas. You can also swap the almonds for other nuts like hazelnuts or walnuts, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will change slightly.

What Is The Best Way To Serve These Mini Apple And Almond Cakes?

These mini cakes are perfect served on their own as a snack or dessert. You can also pair them with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

How Long Do I Need To Bake The Mini Cakes For?

The mini apple and almond cakes typically take about 18-20 minutes to bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (160°C fan)/350°F. It’s always a good idea to check them by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, they’re done.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Fat Instead Of Butter In This Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute butter with margarine or a plant-based butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. However, the flavor and texture may vary slightly. For a more neutral taste, you could also try using vegetable oil.