Cranberry Christmas Cake

There’s something truly magical about the kitchen during the holiday season. I remember the aromas wafting through our home as my mom baked her signature Cranberry Christmas Cake. The gentle sound of the mixer buzzing, mingled with the quiet laughter of family members drifting in and out, set a cozy scene. The cranberries pop slightly as you mix them into the batter, filling the room with a sweet-tart fragrance. These memories come flooding back every time I make this cake, and they remind me how cooking can weave together moments of love and togetherness.

Why Make This Cranberry Christmas Cake

This Cranberry Christmas Cake is not merely a dessert; it is a tradition that has become a beloved part of our family celebrations. With its bright color and delightful flavor, it’s a dish that draws people together. I often find myself making it when the family gathers around the table, each spoonful invoking memories shared over many seasons. The warm, buttery cake complements the tartness of the cranberries perfectly, making it a delightful centerpiece during our holiday feast.

Cranberry Christmas Cake also fits seamlessly into busy lives. While the world outside buzzes with holiday hustle, this cake invites us to slow down and create something with our own hands. It is simple, yet it has an elegance that impresses guests and family alike. This recipe is both practical and special, an opportunity to bring a little sparkle to your family gatherings without adding stress.

Bringing Cranberry Christmas Cake to Life

“Every time I stir this pot, it smells just like Sunday at home.”

Making Cranberry Christmas Cake is an experience that warms the heart and home. As I prepare the ingredients, I take a moment to savor the vibrant colors of fresh cranberries and the creamy texture of softened butter. The kitchen feels warm and inviting, just like it always did in my childhood.

As the mixer spins, I feel the nostalgia wash over me. It’s a voice from the past reminding me of family get-togethers and cozy holidays. The mixing sounds and the scent of sweet vanilla create a comforting ambiance. There’s a rhythm to the process that brings the whole family closer, and that is truly the magic of home cooking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful Cranberry Christmas Cake:

• 3 eggs
• 2 cups sugar
• 3/4 cup butter (softened)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 bag (12 ounces) cranberries (fresh or frozen)

Choosing fresh cranberries gives this cake that signature tartness, but feel free to use frozen if you can’t find fresh. They have a great flavor too!

Step-by-Step Directions

Let’s dive into the straightforward steps to create this delightful cake:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
2. Spray a 9 x 13 baking pan with cooking spray.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar for about 5 minutes. This is the most important step. Please do not skip it. The mixture should almost double in size and thicken beautifully.
4. Add the softened butter and vanilla extract. Continue to mix until well incorporated.
5. Gradually mix in the flour until everything is well combined.
6. Stir in the cranberries gently, being careful not to break them.
7. Spread the batter into the prepared baking pan evenly.
8. Bake for 40 – 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let it cool in the pan before cutting. Enjoy!

Each step brings life to the cake, filling your kitchen with warmth and comfort. The most crucial part is beating the eggs and sugar, which creates a lovely, airy texture that keeps the cake light and fluffy.

Serving Cranberry Christmas Cake at the Family Table

Nothing compares to the joy of serving a freshly baked Cranberry Christmas Cake at family gatherings. I love to present it dusted with powdered sugar, adding that final touch of festivity. As I serve each slice, the steam rises gently, mingling with the laughter and chatter around the table.

The reactions are priceless. My kids dance around in excitement, eager to get their share. The people gathered at my table come together, sharing stories and swapping recipes, with the clinks of forks and plates adding music to the moment. Each bite is an explosion of flavor the sweetness of the cake perfectly balancing the tartness of the cranberries.

Keeping It Fresh for Tomorrow

Sometimes, after a big family dinner, we find ourselves with leftover Cranberry Christmas Cake. Luckily, it keeps very well! To store, simply cover any remaining pieces tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them into an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for a couple of days but is best when refrigerated.

If you want to savor it later, you can freeze individual slices. Wrapping them well will ensure they stay fresh and delicious. When ready to eat, just thaw them in the fridge overnight and enjoy!

Flavors actually deepen the next day, so your cake may taste even better after a night in the refrigerator. The cranberries continue to release their juice, making every bite more flavorful.

Quick Tips from My Kitchen

1. Mixing: Make sure to whip the eggs and sugar well. This adds a fantastic airiness to the cake, making it light and fluffy.
2. Butter Temperature: Softened butter is key. If it’s too hard, it won’t blend well, leaving you with lumps in the batter.
3. Fresh vs. Frozen: If using frozen cranberries, do not defrost them before mixing. This will help prevent the batter from turning too purple and keeps the cranberries intact.
4. Flavor Boost: You can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with the cranberries.
5. Serving Suggestion: Try pairing the cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Family Twists and Adaptations

Every family has its own twist on the classic Cranberry Christmas Cake. Some like to add orange zest for an extra burst of flavor, while others might swap cranberries for blueberries in the summer months. As for me, I sometimes throw in chopped walnuts or pecans for a lovely crunch.

You can also adapt the sweetness. If you prefer your desserts less sweet, reduce the sugar by half a cup. It won’t affect the cake’s structure and will let the cranberry flavor shine a bit more.

Cranberry Christmas Cake

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• Author: cookthatdish
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful holiday cake featuring tart cranberries and a buttery texture, perfect for family gatherings.

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Ingredients

• 3 eggs
• 2 cups sugar
• 3/4 cup butter (softened)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 bag (12 ounces) cranberries (fresh or frozen)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spray a 9 x 13 baking pan with cooking spray.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar for about 5 minutes until thick and doubled in size.
4. Add the softened butter and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
5. Gradually mix in the flour until combined.
6. Gently stir in the cranberries, being careful not to break them.
7. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let it cool in the pan before cutting and serving.

Notes

You can store leftover cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container; it keeps well for a couple of days at room temperature or longer in the fridge.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

FAQs About Cranberry Christmas Cake

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes. I often prep it in the morning before the girls wake up and finish it just before dinner. This keeps the flavor fresh and saves time later.

What should I serve with Cranberry Christmas Cake?
That’s up to you! Whipped cream, ice cream, or even a light dusting of powdered sugar are excellent choices. Some like to pair it with a warm cup of tea.

How do I know when the cake is done?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Watch for golden edges too they’re a good sign that’s it’s ready!

Can I freeze the Cranberry Christmas Cake?
Absolutely! Just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. They’ll keep for up to three months.

How can I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?
Spray the baking pan with cooking spray generously, and make sure it cools for a few minutes before you attempt to remove it.

A Final Thought

As with any recipe, the true beauty lies in the memories we create around it. Whether it’s family gatherings or quiet evenings at home, this Cranberry Christmas Cake has a way of reminding us that cooking is more than just getting food on the table. It’s a chance to connect, to create, and to share a little love in each bite.

So the next time you get into the kitchen, remember that it’s not just about the ingredients or the outcome. It’s about the warmth you bring to it, the love you sprinkle, and the joy of sharing it with others. After all, cooking is a wonderful journey, one filled with delicious moments and heartfelt memories. I hope this Cranberry Christmas Cake becomes part of your journey too, filling your home with laughter, love, and the sweet aroma of the holidays.