Traditional Canadian All Dressed Cupcakes
You’d think in the year of The Great Quar everyone would be tired of baking, but not me! Certainly not. Frankly I can’t imagine growing tired of something as soothing and symbolic of the holiday season, even after spending weeks perfecting my sourdough starter back in the summertime. When the weather turns cold my eyes look to the oven, imagining all the traditional holiday treats soon to rise and brown in its warm belly.
Today I’m thinking of our neighbors to the north. You won’t find this particular treat in many American kitchens, but in Canada nothing is as synonymous with the holidays as these sweet and savory “all dressed” cupcakes. Do yourself a favor and step outside your comfort zone with these delicious bites of red heaven. You’ll be glad you did!
CANADIAN ALL DRESSED CUPCAKES
Servings: 12 large or 24 mini cupcakes
- 1½ cups peeled and diced tomatoes
- Seasoning: ½ teaspoon dried ginger, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 3 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons plain thick yogurt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1½ cups plain flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
Preheat the oven to 370°F.
Prepare muffin pans with paper cake cups (enough to make 12 large or 24 mini cupcakes).
Put the diced tomato in a blender and add all spices, salt and molasses. Taste and adjust salt if needed — remember that you are adding eggs and flour to the mix so make sure it isn’t bland! Let cool completely.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until foamy and mix in the yogurt and olive oil. Sift in the flour and baking powder. Now fold in the seasoned tomatoes until completely incorporated. Pour into the prepared paper cake cups and bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until a skewer inserted comes out clean.
Allow cupcakes to cool completely before squeezing on a big dollop of every Canadian’s favorite frosting: Good Old Tomato Ketchup!
I hope you enjoy this classic Canadian treat! Feel free to share this recipe with your friends and family, and check back here for more delicious baking ideas updated each week. 😊
