Cranberry Christmas Cake

Description

Cranberry Christmas Cake is a festive, moist, and buttery dessert filled with tart cranberries and sweet vanilla flavor. This beautiful holiday cake bakes into a golden treat with juicy cranberries bursting in every bite. Perfect for Christmas gatherings, winter brunches, or cozy evenings with tea or coffee, this cake is simple to make yet elegant enough for special celebrations.

Ingredients

2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup milk
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Method

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and almond extract.
In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, alternating with milk, until smooth.
Fold in cranberries gently.
Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 45–55 minutes until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Slice and serve.

Notes

Fresh cranberries give the brightest tart flavor.
Frozen cranberries can be used directly without thawing.
Almond extract adds a bakery-style holiday aroma.

Tips

Do not overmix batter after adding flour.
Toss cranberries in a little flour to prevent sinking.
Cover loosely with foil if top browns too quickly.
Let cake cool fully before slicing for cleaner pieces.

Servings

Serves 10–12 slices

Nutritional Info (Per Slice Approx.)

Calories: 320
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 26g
Sodium: 160mg

Benefits

Cranberries provide antioxidants and Vitamin C
Great holiday dessert for gatherings
Easy homemade cake with simple ingredients
Balanced sweet and tart flavor
Pairs perfectly with coffee or tea
Festive presentation for Christmas tables

Q&A for Cranberry Christmas Cake

Q: Can I use dried cranberries?
A: Yes, but fresh or frozen cranberries give better texture and tartness.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Yes, bake 1 day ahead and store covered at room temperature.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Q: What can I serve with it?
A: Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or warm tea are excellent choices.