Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is like a warm hug on a chilly morning, combining the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of rich cake and a hint of cream cheese frosting. Imagine cutting into a slice, revealing moist layers bursting with flavor, making your taste buds dance like they’re at a party. Each bite is a delightful blend of textures and aromas that can turn even the grumpiest morning into a cheerful occasion.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart. Picture this: it’s Thanksgiving morning, and there I am, in my fuzzy slippers, surrounded by family chaos. My aunt walks in with her famous Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake, and suddenly, the madness fades away. The aroma wafts through the air, promising an explosion of flavors that can only be described as pure bliss. It’s perfect for cozy holiday gatherings or just when you need to make an ordinary Tuesday feel extraordinary.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- The flavor profile combines tart cranberries and sweet cream cheese frosting for an unforgettable experience.
- Visually appealing with its colorful fruit topping, it’s sure to impress guests at any gathering.
- Versatile enough for breakfast or dessert, this cake fits any occasion perfectly.
Ingredients for Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for the structure of your cake; sifted flour ensures a light and fluffy texture.
- Sugar: Regular granulated sugar sweetens the batter perfectly; you can substitute with brown sugar for added depth.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps your cake rise beautifully; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
- Salt: A pinch brings out all flavors; don’t skip it!
- Unsalted Butter: Softened butter adds richness; let it sit at room temperature before using.
- Eggs: Two large eggs bind everything together; they should be at room temperature for better mixing.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances flavors; avoid imitation for a more authentic taste.
- Cranberries: Fresh or frozen work wonders; if using frozen, don’t thaw them beforehand.
- Cream Cheese: For frosting; it provides that creamy texture we all crave.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the frosting nicely while keeping it smooth and spreadable.
- Milk: A splash adjusts the consistency of your frosting; whole milk works best but use what you have on hand.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan so that your cake slides out easily once baked.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until well combined. This step ensures an even distribution of leavening agents throughout the batter.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream softened butter until fluffy. Gradually add sugar until light and airy—about three minutes should do! Then beat in eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add your dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this isn’t CrossFit!
Step 5: Fold in Cranberries
Gently fold in cranberries into the batter using a spatula until evenly distributed. Trust me; you want cranberries in every bite!
Step 6: Bake
Pour batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake for about 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with frosting made from cream cheese mixed with powdered sugar and milk for the perfect finishing touch!
And there you have it—the perfect way to brighten up any day with this delightful Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake! Enjoy each slice as you reminisce about those cozy mornings filled with warmth and love.
You Must Know
- This delightful Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake brings together the rich flavors of coffee, sweet cranberries, and creamy frosting.
- It’s perfect for brunch or dessert, and its festive colors brighten any gathering.
- Plus, it’s easy to whip up even when you’re running on caffeine fumes!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To create the perfect Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake, start by creaming the butter and sugar until fluffy. Then, mix in your eggs and vanilla before folding in the dry ingredients. Finally, gently incorporate the cranberries for that burst of flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberries for blueberries or cherries if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to give your cake a warm, spiced twist that pairs beautifully with coffee.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. Reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked flavor again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and better rise.
- Don’t skip gently folding in cranberries; this keeps them whole and juicy.
- Lastly, let the cake cool completely before frosting to avoid a melty mess!
Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake has been a family favorite since my aunt first made it during Thanksgiving. Everyone raved about it so much that now I’m officially designated as “the cake maker” at family gatherings!
FAQs:
What is Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake?
Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with a rich, buttery cake. Often topped with cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of nuts, this cake offers a perfect balance of flavors. It’s ideal for holiday gatherings or as an afternoon treat with coffee. The unique blend of ingredients makes it a favorite among those who love seasonal desserts.
How do I store leftover Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake?
To store your leftover Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to preserve it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for about a week. For extended storage, freeze individual slices wrapped securely in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag.
Can I make Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake ahead of time! Bake the cake and allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly. Store it at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to a week. For the best flavor and texture, frost the cake just before serving to ensure that the cream cheese frosting remains fresh and creamy.
What variations can I try with Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake?
There are several delicious variations you can try with Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake. You might add orange zest to enhance the flavor profile, or substitute walnuts for pecans if you prefer another nutty taste. For a sweeter twist, consider adding white chocolate chips to the batter. These small adjustments can elevate your coffee cake experience while maintaining its essence.
Conclusion for Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake:
Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is a wonderful addition to any dessert table, especially during festive seasons. Its combination of tart cranberries and creamy frosting creates an irresistible treat that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea. Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy this delightful cake even days later. With simple variations available, each bake can bring new flavors while keeping the original charm intact. Enjoy every bite!
Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is a delightful dessert that marries tart cranberries with rich cream cheese frosting, perfect for brunch or an afternoon treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar until combined.
- In another bowl, cream softened butter until fluffy. Gradually add sugar and mix until light and airy (about three minutes). Add eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract.
- Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Gently fold in cranberries using a spatula until evenly distributed.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top. Bake for about 30–35 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk until desired consistency is reached.
- Once the cake cools completely, spread frosting over the top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in orange zest or spices like cinnamon. If you have leftover cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week.



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