Irresistible Cranberry Christmas Cake Recipe to Delight You

There’s something magical about the aroma of a freshly baked Cranberry Christmas Cake wafting through the house. Imagine the sweet-tart scent of cranberries mingling with warm spices, creating an olfactory symphony that dances in your nostrils like a holiday spirit on a sugar rush. Each slice is a festive celebration, bursting with vibrant colors and flavors that bring joy to even the Grinchiest of hearts. This cake is not just dessert; it’s an experience, a hug in cake form, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights by the fire.

Let me take you back to my childhood, where every December, my grandma would whip up this delightful Cranberry Christmas Cake. It was our family tradition to gather around the kitchen table, eagerly waiting for her masterpiece to come out of the oven. The anticipation built as we listened to the timer beep—a sound more thrilling than any Christmas bell. This cake has become synonymous with joy, laughter, and countless memories shared over holiday dinners.

Ingredients for Cranberry Christmas Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Fresh Cranberries: Bright red and tart; they add both flavor and beautiful color to your cake.
• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of your cake; choose high-quality flour for best results.
• Sugar: Regular granulated sugar will help balance out the tartness of the cranberries.
• Baking Powder: A must-have leavening agent that ensures your cake rises perfectly.
• Eggs: These provide moisture and richness; use large eggs for consistent results.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal; it adds flavor and moisture to your cake.
• Milk: Whole milk works best for creating a rich crumb; feel free to substitute with plant-based milk if needed.
• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances all the flavors in your cake beautifully.

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 you’re at it, grease and flour a round cake pan—because nobody likes a sticky situation when trying to serve dessert.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, and sugar until combined. This step is crucial because no one wants lumps ruining their festive delight.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat together softened butter and sugar until creamy. Add in eggs one at a time while mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in vanilla extract like you’re adding sprinkles on top of happiness.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold your dry mixture into the wet ingredients along with milk until just combined. Gently fold in those beautiful fresh cranberries—you want them evenly distributed but not crushed like your hopes of eating only one slice!

Step 5: Bake

Pour your mixture 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 comes out clean—like finding hidden presents under the tree!

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Once baked, allow it to cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Drizzle with icing if desired or serve plain with whipped cream on top—the choice is yours!

Now slice into that gorgeous Cranberry Christmas Cake and watch everyone’s eyes light up—just like mine did when I found out there were leftovers!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing your cake batter, mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately to ensure even distribution. Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake until golden brown while you prepare your cranberry glaze to drizzle on top as soon as the cake cools.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cranberries for other fruits like cherries or blueberries, or add spices like nutmeg or allspice for an extra kick. You can also experiment with different types of glazes, such as a chocolate drizzle or a citrus icing, to suit your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm it in the oven at low heat.

It’s funny how this Cranberry Christmas Cake became my family’s holiday staple after my cousin accidentally made it too moist one year. We laughed so much that we decided to keep it—moisture and all—because who wouldn’t want a cake that doubles as a conversation starter?

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Cranberry Christmas Cake?

To make a delightful Cranberry Christmas Cake, you will need fresh or frozen cranberries, all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, butter, baking powder, and vanilla extract. You can also add spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for extra flavor. Optional ingredients include chopped nuts or a splash of orange juice to enhance the cake’s taste. Make sure to gather everything before starting your baking adventure. This preparation will ensure that your Cranberry Christmas Cake turns out perfectly moist and flavorful.

How long does it take to bake the Cranberry Christmas Cake?

The baking time for your Cranberry Christmas Cake typically ranges from 45 to 55 minutes at 350°F (175°C). However, oven temperatures can vary, so checking for doneness is essential. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Proper cooling enhances its flavor and texture.

Can I make substitutions in the Cranberry Christmas Cake recipe?

Yes, you can make various substitutions in your Cranberry Christmas Cake recipe! If you’re out of butter, use vegetable oil or applesauce for a lighter version. For gluten-free options, replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. If cranberries are unavailable, consider using dried fruits like raisins or cherries. These substitutions can alter the flavor slightly but will still yield a delicious cake perfect for the festive season.

How should I store my Cranberry Christmas Cake?

To store your Cranberry Christmas Cake properly, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. You can leave it at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for up to a week if you prefer. If you plan on keeping it longer, consider freezing individual slices in an airtight container. This way, you can enjoy pieces of your festive treat even after the holiday season has passed!

Conclusion for Cranberry Christmas Cake :

In summary, the Cranberry Christmas Cake is an enchanting dessert that embodies the flavors of the holiday season. With its vibrant cranberries and warm spices, this cake is perfect for festive gatherings. Preparing this delightful treat requires simple ingredients and minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. By following our tips on storage and substitutions, you can enjoy this cake year-round or share it with friends and family during special occasions. Embrace the joy of baking and celebrate with this wonderful recipe!

Print

Cranberry Christmas Cake

• Author: Christina
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Holiday

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

Indulge in the festive flavors of this Cranberry Christmas Cake, bursting with sweet-tart cranberries and warm spices, perfect for holiday gatherings.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup whole milk (or plant-based milk)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

---

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and sugar until well combined.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients along with the milk until just combined. Gently fold in the fresh cranberries.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool & Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Drizzle with icing or serve plain with whipped cream if desired.

---

---

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Substitute cranberries with cherries or blueberries for a different flavor profile. Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. Store leftover cake in an airtight container; it stays fresh for up to three days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.