Name: Cranberry Christmas Cake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large eggs; 1 cup granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries; ½ cup sugar (for topping)

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If you’re searching for a delightful holiday treat that feels cozy and festive in every bite, this Cranberry Christmas Cake Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Imagine a tender, buttery cake bursting with the vibrant tartness of fresh cranberries, crowned with a sweet sugar crust that adds the perfect crunch. It’s a classic American holiday dessert that brings warmth to the table and an irresistible ruby-red charm that instantly lifts your Christmas spirit. Whether you’re enjoying it on Christmas morning or sharing it at a winter get-together, this cake blends simplicity and elegance in the best possible way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an overhead view of baking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. There are two sticks of butter wrapped in yellow paper placed on a white and gray striped cloth near the top left. A clear glass bowl filled with bright red cranberries, some with a frosty look, is near the top center. Below that, a round clear glass bowl holds white flour with a slightly lumpy texture. A clear measuring cup next to it is filled with white sugar. Below the flour, there is a small clear glass bowl with three whole white eggs. To the right of the eggs, a whole orange sits on the surface, showing its bright, slightly textured peel. Finally, a small clear bowl with dark brown vanilla extract is near the top right. The items create a simple and clean baking scene photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Cranberry Christmas Cake Recipe lies in its simple, quality ingredients that work harmoniously to create a balance of flavor, texture, and eye-catching color. Each item plays a vital role—from the tart cranberries providing a brilliant pop of freshness to the melted butter adding richness and moistness to the crumb.

3 large eggs: These give structure and help create a light, fluffy texture.
1 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness that balances the tart berries perfectly.
¾ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled: Adds rich flavor and tender crumb to the cake.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth to every bite.
1½ cups all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together with just the right amount of body.
1 tsp baking powder: Ensures a light rise and airy texture.
¼ tsp salt: Enhances the sweetness and intensifies flavors.
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries: The star ingredient, bringing tartness and those gorgeous red jewels throughout.
½ cup sugar (for topping): Creates a lovely buttery sugar crust that adds crunch and extra sweetness.

How to Make Cranberry Christmas Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan thoroughly, then line it with parchment paper. This ensures your cake slips out effortlessly after baking and keeps that crust intact.

Step 2: Beat Eggs and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, vigorously beat the 3 large eggs with 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture turns thick and pale. This step is key—it incorporates air and helps create a light, tender crumb in your cake.

Step 3: Add Butter and Vanilla

Stir in the melted and cooled unsalted butter along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The butter adds buttery richness, while the vanilla deepens the overall flavor profile of your Cranberry Christmas Cake Recipe.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Combining these ingredients evenly here prevents clumps and gives your cake an even rise.

Step 5: Fold Dry Ingredients into Wet

Gently fold the dry ingredients into your wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the cake tender and soft.

Step 6: Spread Batter and Add Toppings

Pour and spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Then, sprinkle the fresh or frozen cranberries evenly on top, followed by the ½ cup sugar which will caramelize into a perfect sweet crust as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cake is golden and set in the center. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool before slicing. This brief cooling period helps the cake firm up just enough to hold its shape when served.

How to Serve Cranberry Christmas Cake Recipe

The image shows several thick square dessert bars arranged closely on a white plate. Each bar has two main layers: a pale yellow, dense-looking base layer with a slightly crumbly texture, and a top layer that is light with a mix of bright red and dark purple berry pieces embedded throughout. The berries create spots of color that contrast with the creamy white and light yellow parts of the bars. The bars have an uneven, rustic surface with some texture from the berries and a soft, moist appearance. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To enhance the festive feel, consider dusting the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A few whole cranberries or sprigs of fresh rosemary can add a beautiful seasonal touch.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a creamy custard for extra indulgence. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a warm cup of spiced tea or mulled wine to complement those tart cranberry notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming holiday display, serve slices on rustic wooden boards paired with festive napkins. You can also turn this cake into mini portions by baking it in muffin tins and topping each with a cranberry and a sugar crust for easy grab-and-go treats at your gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store your Cranberry Christmas Cake Recipe wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigeration is your friend, extending shelf life up to five days.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices well with plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe container. When you want a festive treat, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and enjoy the same fresh flavor and texture.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or briefly in a preheated oven to revive that just-baked softness. This makes your Cranberry Christmas Cake Recipe taste freshly made even days after baking.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work wonderfully in this recipe and can be used straight from the freezer without thawing. They will still provide the tart burst of flavor and keep your cake moist and festive.

How far in advance can I bake this cake?

You can bake the cake up to two days before serving if kept covered at room temperature or up to five days refrigerated. Its flavors often deepen overnight, making it even tastier the day after baking.

Is this cake suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this Cranberry Christmas Cake Recipe is entirely vegetarian-friendly, containing no animal products besides eggs and butter, which are staples in many vegetarian diets.

Can I add nuts or other dried fruits?

Definitely! For extra texture and flavor, try folding in chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried orange peel. These additions add a lovely nutty crunch or citrusy brightness that complements the cranberries beautifully.

What can I substitute for butter?

If you want to swap butter, use an equal amount of a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil, but keep in mind this could slightly change the texture and flavor of the cake, making it less rich but still moist and tasty.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Christmas Cake Recipe is a heartwarming celebration of the season in cake form—simple to make yet elegant enough to be a centerpiece on any holiday table. Its balance of tart cranberries and sweet buttery cake is simply irresistible, inviting you to indulge and share this joy with loved ones. Give it a try this Christmas and watch it become a cherished tradition!