Classic Cranberry Cake Recipe

Welcome to your new favorite holiday treat: a truly delightful cranberry cake! This recipe effortlessly combines vibrant, tart cranberries with a perfectly moist, sweet batter. It’s a versatile dessert, perfect for festive gatherings, cozy brunches, or simply a comforting snack. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, making this classic cranberry cake a go-to for busy home bakers.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Cake

This easy recipe for cranberry cake will quickly become a cherished favorite for many reasons:

• Simple Baking Process: It’s incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
• Festive Appearance: The vibrant red cranberries create a beautiful, appealing look that brightens any table.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavor: Enjoy the wonderful contrast between the sweet cake and the tart burst of fresh cranberries.
• Moist & Tender Texture: Every bite is soft and buttery, ensuring a delightful eating experience.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Serve this delicious cranberry cake at holiday parties, family brunches, or an afternoon tea.

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Classic Cranberry Cake

A moist and festive classic cranberry cake with tart fresh cranberries baked throughout a sweet buttery cake — perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy breakfasts alongside coffee. Combines bright cranberry flavor with a tender crumb and a hint of vanilla. (reconstructed from standard cranberry cake recipes)

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 minute min

Servings: 12 servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cranberry Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsalted butter softened
• 3 large eggs room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 12 oz fresh cranberries can use frozen, do not thaw
• ½ cup milk

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (or whisk)
• measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Wire rack

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and set aside. (Typical method — reconstructed)
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. (Standard cranberry cake step) :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract until well combined. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
6. Gently fold in the fresh cranberries so they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
8. Bake for about 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

Notes

This cranberry cake is great served warm or at room temperature. Optionally add a light glaze or dust with powdered sugar. Leftovers can be stored covered at room temperature for 2–3 days. (Common storage and serving tips) :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your moist and flavorful cranberry cake:

• 3 large eggs
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 12 ounces fresh cranberries

Notes & Substitutions

Ensure your butter is truly softened to room temperature for the best texture and smooth mixing. If you use frozen cranberries, do not thaw them; stir them into the batter directly from the freezer. For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. A touch of orange zest (1-2 teaspoons) in the batter enhances the bright flavor profile beautifully.

Equipment

You’ll need a few basic kitchen tools to make this delightful cranberry cake:

• Stand mixer or a hand-held electric mixer
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Large mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Wire cooling rack

Instructions

Let’s bake this incredible cranberry cake! Follow these easy steps for a perfect result:

1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly butter or spray a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Whip Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with the granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Continue beating for about 5-7 minutes, until the mixture becomes light in color, slightly thickened, and nearly doubles in volume. This crucial step incorporates air, acting as a leavening agent for your cranberry cake. The mixture should form a thick ribbon when you lift the beaters.
   

   Understanding the science of whipping egg whites reveals how proteins unravel and trap air, contributing to the cake’s airy structure.

   
   
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Incorporate the softened butter and vanilla extract into the egg mixture. Mix for another two minutes until fully combined and creamy.
4. Fold in Flour: Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed, or gently fold with a spatula, until the flour is just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a tough cake.
5. Stir in Cranberries: Gently fold in the fresh cranberries. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Transfer to Pan: Spread the cake batter evenly into your prepared 9×13 inch baking pan.
7. Bake the Cake: Bake for 40-50 minutes. The cake is ready when it turns very lightly browned and a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. (Mine took 43 minutes.)
8. Cool Completely: Let your delicious cranberry cake cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. Cooling ensures the cake sets properly and prevents it from crumbling.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Achieve the best results for your cranberry cake with these expert tips. Thoroughly whip the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy; this creates the airy structure for your cake. Avoid overmixing the flour once you add it to the batter, as this can develop too much gluten and result in a tough, dry cake. To prevent cranberries from sinking to the bottom, toss them lightly with 1-2 tablespoons of flour before folding them into the batter. This simple trick helps to distribute fruit evenly throughout the cake. Always ensure your cake cools completely on a wire rack before cutting; this allows it to firm up and prevents it from falling apart. If your cake seems dry, you might have overbaked it or overmixed the batter.

Serving, Storage, & Variations

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delightful cranberry cake plain for a simple treat, or dust it lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant finish. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. This versatile berry-filled treat is perfect for breakfast with coffee, a sweet ending to dinner, or a satisfying afternoon snack.

Storage Instructions

Store leftover cranberry cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For extended freshness, refrigerate the cake, still tightly covered, for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for long-term storage; wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen slices at room temperature before serving.

Variations

Easily adapt this recipe to your taste! Add a bright, citrusy note by incorporating 1-2 teaspoons of orange or lemon zest into the batter. For added texture and nutty flavor, fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts with the cranberries. A simple lemon glaze (powdered sugar mixed with lemon juice) drizzled over the cooled cranberry cake adds extra sweetness and zing.

Nutrition Information

Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of this classic cranberry cake.

Disclaimer: These are estimated values and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods. This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice.

FAQ

Conclusion

This classic cranberry cake truly delivers on flavor, simplicity, and festive charm. With its perfect balance of sweet and tart, and a wonderfully moist texture, it’s a recipe you’ll revisit again and again. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party or simply craving a delicious treat, this easy-to-follow recipe ensures success. Go ahead and bake this delightful cranberry cake – your taste buds will thank you!

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