The aroma of warm cranberry sauce cake wafts through the air, mingling with the sweetness of cinnamon and the tartness of fresh cranberries. Each bite promises a delightful burst of flavor that dances on your palate, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. For more inspiration, check out this appetizing snack ideas recipe.
This cake has a special place in my heart, often gracing our family gatherings, where laughter and stories flow as freely as the coffee. Picture this: your loved ones gathered around, their eyes widening in delight as they take that first bite of this festive dessert. For more inspiration, check out this delicious dessert recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cranberry sauce cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any baking novice
- Its rich flavors are sure to impress even the pickiest eaters at your table
- With vibrant colors, it looks stunning on any holiday spread
- Enjoy it as a dessert or a sweet snack anytime you crave something special
I remember my cousin’s face lighting up when I first served this cake at Thanksgiving last year—pure joy wrapped in deliciousness.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Fresh Cranberries: Opt for firm, bright cranberries; they add a tangy zing that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Granulated Sugar: Use regular granulated sugar for sweetness; adjust to taste if you prefer it less sweet.
All-Purpose Flour: A must-have for structure; sifted flour ensures a lighter texture.
Baking Powder: This helps the cake rise perfectly; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth; feel free to experiment with nutmeg too!
Eggs: Use large eggs for binding; they also contribute moisture to the batter.
Vegetable Oil: Helps keep the cake moist and tender; can substitute with melted butter for extra flavor.
Vanilla Extract: For an aromatic touch; pure vanilla gives the best flavor.
Powdered Sugar: Optional for dusting on top; adds a lovely finish and sweetness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your batter. Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. This step creates a fluffy base for your cake.
Create The Wet Mixture: In another bowl, beat eggs before adding vegetable oil and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth—this will help create a moist texture in your final product.
Combine It All!: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; lumps are okay!
Add The Star Ingredient!: Gently fold in cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Their tartness will shine through beautifully in every slice.
Bake To Perfection!: Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The kitchen will smell heavenly during baking!
Let this cranberry sauce cake cool slightly before serving—every slice is worth waiting for! Enjoy with friends and family or savor it solo while binge-watching your favorite show.
You Must Know
- Cranberry Sauce Cake is a delightful twist on traditional cake, blending tart cranberries with sweet batter
- This recipe shines during holidays but is perfect for any day that needs a little cheer
- The aroma will fill your home and warm your heart!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the dry ingredients, then cream the butter and sugar before adding eggs. Incorporate cranberries last to ensure even distribution and maintain their burst of flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cranberries for blueberries or add nuts for crunch. Experimenting with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile to new heights.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh cranberries for a tangy burst of flavor
- If using frozen, don’t thaw them to prevent excess moisture
- Adjust sugar based on cranberry tartness; it’s all about balance!
I remember the first time I made this cake for my family gathering. Everyone loved it so much that they insisted I make it every holiday since!
FAQ
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but reduce sugar since dried cranberries are sweeter than fresh ones.
How do I prevent the cranberries from sinking?
Tossing them in flour before adding to the batter helps keep them suspended during baking.
What can I serve with Cranberry Sauce Cake?
Pair it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast!
Irresistible Cranberry Sauce Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Discover the delightful combination of tart cranberries and warm spices in this easy-to-make cranberry sauce cake. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this cake bursts with flavor and is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you enjoy it as a sweet dessert or a tasty snack, this festive treat will become a new favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs before adding vegetable oil and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined; lumps are okay.
- Gently fold in the cranberries to evenly distribute throughout the batter.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 66g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For added texture, consider incorporating chopped nuts. Swap cranberries for blueberries for a different twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze wrapped slices for longer storage.
