Cranberry Christmas Cake is like a warm hug on a chilly winter’s day, bursting with flavors that dance on your palate. Imagine biting into a slice of moist cake, where the tartness of cranberries meets the sweetness of sugar, creating a delightful flavor explosion that screams festive cheer. The aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes will have everyone in the house doing their best impression of a hungry puppy, tail wagging, and eyes wide with anticipation.
This cake isn’t just for Christmas; it’s perfect for any gathering where you want to impress your friends and family. Picture this: you’re hosting a holiday party, and as you slice into this beautiful creation, everyone gasps in delight at the vibrant red flecks nestled in the golden cake. Trust me, one bite of this Cranberry Christmas Cake will have your guests singing “Hallelujah!” like they’ve just discovered the secret to eternal happiness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Cranberry Christmas Cake is easy to whip up, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Its unique blend of sweet and tart will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.
- Visually stunning with its ruby-red cranberries, it’s bound to be the star of your dessert table.
- Versatile enough to enjoy during any festive occasion or simply for an indulgent treat at home.
Ingredients for Cranberry Christmas Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: The base of our cake, providing structure and fluffiness. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Baking Powder: This magical ingredient helps our cake rise to fluffy perfection. Double-check it’s not expired!
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture to balance the tartness of cranberries. A little extra won’t hurt either!
- Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for a creamy texture that blends beautifully into the batter.
- Eggs: These help bind everything together while adding richness. Go for large eggs if possible.
- Fresh or Frozen Cranberries: The star of our show! Choose bright red, firm berries for maximum tartness.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds depth and warmth—like a cozy fireplace on a snowy night.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry Christmas Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease and flour a round cake pan; this prevents our lovely cake from sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder until well combined. This step ensures that every bite is filled with fluffy goodness.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about three minutes should do the trick! You’re aiming for that dreamy texture that makes cakes irresistible.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in those eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in that heavenly vanilla extract. Your kitchen will start smelling like pure bliss!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake light and airy! Gently fold in those gorgeous cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Bake Away
Pour your batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth out the top. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. It’s almost time to dig in!
Transfer to plates and enjoy each bite of this scrumptious Cranberry Christmas Cake topped with whipped cream or simply on its own—it’s all delicious!
You Must Know
- This delightful cranberry Christmas cake is an absolute showstopper for any holiday gathering.
- It combines tart cranberries with warm spices, creating a festive treat that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Ideal for sharing, this cake brings joy to every table.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and greasing your cake pan. Mix your dry ingredients first while the butter and sugar cream together. Fold in the cranberries last for even distribution, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cranberries for other fruits like blueberries or diced apples if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also sprinkle in some nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and richness!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cranberry Christmas cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and foil, reheating them in a warm oven when you’re ready to indulge again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh cranberries for that tart pop; frozen ones can make the batter too wet.
- Allow your cake to cool completely before slicing; this helps maintain its structure.
- Lastly, don’t skip the glaze; it adds a beautiful finish and extra sweetness!
I once brought this cranberry Christmas cake to a family gathering, and it disappeared faster than my uncle’s attempts at dad jokes! Everyone loved it so much that I had to promise to make it every year.
FAQs :
What are the key ingredients in Cranberry Christmas Cake?
Cranberry Christmas Cake features a delightful combination of fresh cranberries, flour, sugar, eggs, and butter. Additional ingredients often include baking powder for leavening, vanilla extract for flavor, and spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the festive essence. Some recipes may also call for nuts or chocolate chips to add texture. Using fresh cranberries gives this cake its signature tartness, balancing the sweetness of the cake perfectly. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the sweetness to suit your taste.
How long does it take to bake Cranberry Christmas Cake?
Baking a Cranberry Christmas Cake typically takes about 45 to 55 minutes at 350°F (175°C). However, baking times may vary based on your oven and the size of the cake. It’s essential to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling step helps maintain its moist texture while enhancing flavors.
Can I make Cranberry Christmas Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can certainly make Cranberry Christmas Cake ahead of time! Preparing it a day or two in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature or in an airtight container in the fridge if you want it to last even longer. You can also freeze portions of the cake for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap it well in freezer-safe materials and thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy this festive treat.
What can I serve with Cranberry Christmas Cake?
Cranberry Christmas Cake pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavor profile. A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and creaminess, while vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast with its warmth. For added flavor, consider drizzling some warm caramel sauce or serving fresh berries alongside each slice. A cup of hot tea or coffee complements this cake perfectly, making it an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or cozy winter evenings.
Conclusion for Cranberry Christmas Cake :
In summary, making a Cranberry Christmas Cake is not only simple but also rewarding during the festive season. With its vibrant flavor and beautiful presentation, this cake becomes a centerpiece at any holiday gathering. Remember to choose high-quality ingredients for maximum taste and consider making it ahead of time for convenience. Pairing it with whipped cream or ice cream enhances its appeal further. Enjoy creating this delightful treat that brings joy and warmth to your holiday celebrations!
Cranberry Christmas Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in this moist, flavorful cake featuring sweet-tart cranberries, perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (thawed if frozen)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder until well combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar for about three minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed. Gently fold in the cranberries until evenly distributed.
- Bake Your Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Enjoy it on its own or topped with whipped cream!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Use fresh cranberries for optimal tartness; frozen can make the batter too wet. For added texture, consider mixing in nuts or chocolate chips. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days, or freeze slices individually wrapped for longer storage.
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