Recipe for Cranberry Christmas Cake

The holidays bring joy, togetherness, and delicious desserts. As winter arrives and lights sparkle, the recipe for Cranberry Christmas Cake stands out. It’s a moist, buttery treat that celebrates the season’s flavors.

The scent of fresh cake fills your home, blending cranberry tartness with buttery richness and almond warmth. This recipe is a holiday classic. It brings back memories of cozy times, laughter, and making memories with those we love.

Key Takeaways

• Cranberry Christmas Cake is a moist, buttery dessert bursting with tart cranberries.
• It’s a simple recipe with only a handful of ingredients, perfect for holiday celebrations.
• The cake features a soft texture and a delicate, crunchy almond topping.
• It’s leavened by whipping eggs and sugar together, resulting in a rich, tender cake.
• This recipe is a treasure trove of holiday nostalgia and a timeless classic.

Introduction to Cranberry Christmas Cake

This cranberry Christmas cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. Its moist, buttery texture and tangy-sweet flavor make it a standout among festive desserts. What sets this cake apart is its simplicity and the perfect balance it strikes between the tart cranberries and the rich, comforting cake.

What Makes This Cake Special

The secret to this cranberry cake’s success lies in the use of fresh cranberries. Unlike their dried counterparts, the plump, juicy cranberries provide a burst of flavor in every bite. The cake’s batter is infused with vanilla and almond extracts, adding depth and a subtle nuttiness that complements the cranberries beautifully.

Perfect for the Holiday Season

This cranberry Christmas cake is the ultimate holiday indulgence. Its festive red and green hues make it a visually stunning centerpiece for any holiday gathering. The cake’s versatility allows it to be served as a simple dessert or as a showstopping addition to your holiday spread. Whether paired with a warm cup of coffee or enjoyed on its own, this cranberry cake is sure to delight your family and friends throughout the season.

“The cranberry Christmas cake is a true celebration of the season, with its vibrant colors and irresistible flavors. It’s a must-try for any holiday baker!”

Ingredients Needed for the Cake

To make the perfect cranberry Christmas cake, you’ll need some key ingredients. The main attraction is the fresh or frozen cranberries. These tart berries add a beautiful color and a nice contrast to the cake’s sweetness.

Fresh Cranberries

You’ll need 1 1/4 cups of coarsely chopped fresh or thawed frozen cranberries. They come from about 10 oz. of cranberries. The cranberries will burst open while baking, adding flavor and visual appeal to the cake.

Essential Baking Ingredients

• 4 large eggs at room temperature for a fluffier texture
• 2 cups of granulated sugar to sweeten and balance the tartness of the cranberries
• 2 cups of softened salted butter (1 cup for the batter and 1 cup for the buttercream)
• 3 cups (about 12 3/4 ounces) of all-purpose flour for a tender crumb
• 1 1/2 cups of whole buttermilk for moisture
• Baking powder and baking soda for leavening
• Vanilla extract for flavor

Optional Flavor Enhancements

To enhance your cranberry Christmas cake, consider these optional ingredients:

• Almond extract for a delightful aroma and taste
• 2 teaspoons of orange zest to brighten the flavor
• Chopped pecans or sliced almonds for a crunchy texture
• White chocolate chips or chunks for a creamy, indulgent twist

With these ingredients, you’ll be ready to make a stunning and delicious cranberry recipes. It’s perfect for the christmas treats and winter desserts season.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

Baking a cranberry christmas cake brings holiday cheer to your home. Follow these easy steps to make a moist, flavorful cake. It’s perfect for your holiday baking traditions.

Preparing the Cake Batter

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a big mixing bowl, mix 1 cup (8 oz.) of salted butter and 2 cups of sugar until fluffy, about 5 minutes. Then, add 4 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each.

In another bowl, whisk 3 cups of all-purpose flour. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with wet ingredients like milk or sour cream. Mix just until combined.

Folding in the Cranberries

Gently fold in the fresh cranberries without crushing them. This ensures the berries are evenly spread in the cake batter.

Baking Time and Temperature

Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, or use smaller pans. Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and bake for 40-45 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

For smaller cakes or cupcakes, check for doneness around 20 minutes. The baking time will vary. Let the cake(s) cool completely before frosting and decorating.

By following these simple steps, you’ll make a stunning cranberry christmas cake. It’s sure to impress your family and friends during the holiday season. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Baking the perfect cranberry cake recipe needs focus and a few key tips. These tips will help your cranberry cake be moist, tasty, and a hit at holiday parties.

Measuring Ingredients Accurately

Getting the right measurements is key in baking. Use the right measuring cups and spoons for each ingredient. For flour, lightly spoon it into the cup and level it with a knife. For brown sugar, pack it firmly into the cup. Also, make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start.

Avoiding Common Baking Mistakes

• Overmixing the batter can make it tough and dense. Just mix the wet and dry ingredients until they’re combined.
• Don’t overcook the cranberries. They can burst and color the batter. Gently fold them in at the end.
• If nuts start to brown too fast, cover the cake with foil. This stops them from getting too dark.
• Take your time when creaming sugar and eggs. This step is important for the cake’s rise and texture.

By following these baking tips, you’ll make a moist, tasty, and beautiful cranberry cake. It will surely impress your family and friends this holiday season.

Decorating the Cranberry Cake

The Cranberry Christmas Cake is a holiday dessert star. With a few simple touches, it becomes a showstopper. It will impress your family and friends.

Simple Frosting Ideas

The right frosting can make your cake shine. Try an orange glaze or a cream cheese frosting. Add kirsch or vanilla for extra flavor.

Garnishing with Fresh Cranberries

Fresh cranberries add color and festivity. Sprinkle them on top or arrange them around the edges. For a sweet contrast, candy them in melted butter and brown sugar.

For elegance, add rosemary sprigs or orange zest. These touches make your christmas cake stand out among festive desserts.

The beauty of this christmas cake is its rustic charm. Feel free to try different frostings and garnishes. Make it your own to reflect the holiday spirit.

Suggested Pairings for Your Cake

Make your Cranberry Christmas Cake even more special by pairing it with festive drinks and desserts. The cake’s rich, tart flavors go well with many drinks and sweets. This makes it a perfect choice for the holiday season.

Beverage Recommendations

For a cozy feel, try pairing your cake with a warm coffee, tea, or mulled wine. The cake’s spicy and fruity notes will match these winter drinks perfectly.

Other Holiday Desserts to Serve

• Gingerbread Cake: Its bold spices and molasses contrast nicely with the tart cranberries in your cake.
• Cranberry Shortbread Cookies: These buttery cookies pair well with the moist cake, making a great christmas treats combo.
• Cranberry Bliss Bars: The creamy white chocolate and cranberry in these bars match the cake’s flavors, offering a tasty winter desserts option.

For a luxurious touch, serve the cake with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The cool, creamy textures will balance the tartness of the cake, adding a delightful contrast.

Storing and Freezing Tips

After baking your cranberry cake, it’s key to store it right. This way, you can enjoy it even after the holidays. Follow these easy tips to keep your holiday baking fresh.

Best Ways to Store Leftovers

Got leftover cranberry cake? Store it at room temperature, covered loosely, for up to 5 days. For longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

How to Properly Freeze the Cake

1. Let the cake cool completely before wrapping.
2. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
3. Freeze for up to 2 months.
4. Thaw overnight at room temperature when you’re ready.
5. If it’s frosted with cream cheese, refrigerate before serving.

These simple steps will help you enjoy your cranberry cake even after the holidays.

“The best way to spread holiday cheer is by baking a cranberry cake and sharing it with loved ones.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you ready to bake the Cranberry Christmas Cake? You might have some questions. Let’s cover the most common ones to make your baking a success.

Can I Use Dried Cranberries Instead?

Dried cranberries can be used, but fresh or frozen ones are best. Fresh cranberries add the right mix of tartness and moisture. They match the cake’s flavors well.

If you choose dried cranberries, soak them in warm water for 10-15 minutes. This makes them rehydrate and keeps the cake moist.

How Do I Adjust for Altitude?

Baking at high altitudes needs some tweaks. If you’re above 3,000 feet, here’s what to do:

• Reduce sugar by 2-3 tablespoons
• Add 2-3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• Lower the oven temperature to 325°F to 350°F

To keep cranberries from sinking, mix them into a thicker batter. Bake right after mixing. This keeps them evenly spread in the cake.

With these tweaks, your Cranberry Christmas Cake will be perfect, no matter your location. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Nutritional Information

The Cranberry Christmas Cake is a tasty holiday treat. But, it’s key to know its nutritional facts before enjoying it. A serving, which is 1/18th of the cake, has about 303 calories. It also has 38g of carbs, 15g of fat, and 5g of protein.

Caloric Breakdown per Serving

The cake’s calories come mainly from:

• Carbohydrates: 38g per serving
• Fats: 15g per serving, with 6g of saturated fat
• Protein: 5g per serving

Healthier Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier christmas cake, try these swaps:

1. Use some whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to boost fiber.
2. Lessen the granulated sugar and use honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener.
3. Replace some butter with Greek yogurt to cut down on fat and calories.

These changes can make the christmas cake a healthier healthy desserts choice. You won’t lose the festive taste and texture.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Creation!

This cranberry Christmas cake is perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holidays. It’s easy to make and tastes great, making it a great holiday tradition. You can even make it in smaller sizes or as cupcakes, adding festive touches.

Share with Family and Friends

Holiday baking is all about sharing joy. This cake will impress everyone with its moistness and tangy cranberry taste. It’s perfect for holiday meals or as a special gift. Seeing your loved ones enjoy it is truly rewarding.

Your Holiday Baking Tradition

Starting a new holiday baking tradition can create lasting memories. This cranberry Christmas cake can become a yearly favorite. It’s perfect for any time of day, making it a Christmas staple in your home.