As the festive season approaches, the air is filled with the delightful aromas of cinnamon, vanilla, and the unmistakable tartness of cranberries. Embrace the spirit of the holidays with a show-stopping dessert that perfectly captures the essence of Christmas—Cranberry Christmas Cake.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of this seasonal delicacy, exploring its history, unraveling a delectable recipe, and sharing why Cranberry Christmas Cake deserves a place at your holiday table.
A Festive Palette of Flavors
What sets Cranberry Christmas Cake apart is its delightful combination of flavors and textures. The tartness of fresh cranberries adds a burst of brightness, while the sweetness of the cake batter and the subtle spice notes create a harmonious balance. Nuts and a hint of citrus zest often make appearances, adding layers of complexity to this holiday treat.
Recipe: Cranberry Christmas Cake Extravaganza
Let’s embark on a journey to create a Cranberry Cake that will be the star of your festive spread. This recipe combines the freshness of cranberries, the warmth of cinnamon, and the richness of butter for a truly indulgent experience.
Cranberry Christmas Cake
4
servings40
minutes20
minutesIngredients
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup sour cream
For the frosting:
1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup butter, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla
Pinch of salt
4 to 4 1/2 cups confectioner’ s sugar
1/2 teaspoon orange zest
1/4 cup finely chopped pecans
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a medium bowl, toss the cranberries with 1/4 cup of sugar. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and remaining 3/4 cup of sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the sugared cranberries until evenly distributed in the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- For the topping, sprinkle the turbinado sugar over the top of the batter, and then sprinkle the chopped nuts.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, blend cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and salt until velvety. Incorporate orange zest. Gradually blend in the confectioner’s sugar, then fold in pecans. Frost between layers, on top, and around the sides. Enhance with Sugared Cranberries or extra nuts for a delightful finish.
- Slice and serve this delicious Cranberry Christmas Cake at your holiday gathering!
Notes
- Enjoy this festive and flavorful Christmas treat!
How To Make Sugared Cranberries?
Crafting sugared cranberries is an art! Combine precisely 1/2 cup water with an equal amount of granulated sugar in a saucepan. Heat, whisk until sugar dissolves, turn off heat, and delicately stir in cranberries. Roll these beauties a few at a time in a small bowl filled with 1/2 cup granulated sugar.
Lay them out on parchment to harden for about an hour. Voila! Your holiday desserts just reached a new level of sophistication.
The Art of Presentation
A Cranberry Christmas Cake is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Consider dusting the cake with powdered sugar for a snowy effect or drizzling it with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice. Garnish with a few whole cranberries and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for a festive touch.
Why Cranberry Christmas Cake?
Beyond its delicious taste and stunning appearance, Cranberry Cake holds a special place in holiday traditions. The act of baking and sharing this festive dessert becomes a ritual, bringing loved ones together in the warmth of the kitchen. The vibrant red cranberries symbolize joy and abundance, making the cake a fitting centerpiece for Christmas celebrations.
Cranberry Christmas Cake Around the World
While the Cranberry Christmas Cake is a beloved tradition in many American households, its influence has spread worldwide. In European countries, where cranberries may not be as readily available, this holiday cake is often adapted to include local berries or fruits, creating a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Conclusion
As you prepare for the festive season, consider adding the Cranberry Christmas Cake to your repertoire of holiday recipes. This delightful dessert not only embodies the flavors of the season but also carries with it the spirit of togetherness and celebration. Bake, share, and savor the joy of the holidays with every slice of this Cranberry Cake extravaganza. May your Christmas be merry, bright, and filled with the sweet memories created around the kitchen table.
