Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Christmas Cake Recipe
When the holiday season rolls around, nothing beats the charm of a Cranberry Christmas Cake. I love how the tart cranberries contrast beautifully with the sweetness of the cake, creating a delightful balance that’s hard to resist.
The aroma wafting through my kitchen as it bakes brings back cherished memories of family gatherings and festive cheer. Each slice feels like a warm hug, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Plus, the vibrant color makes it a stunning centerpiece on any holiday table. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this cake is a seasonal favorite!
Ingredients of Cranberry Christmas Cake
Let’s plunge into the delicious world of Cranberry Christmas Cake! This cake isn’t just any dessert; it’s a vibrant, flavorful treat that really brings the holiday spirit to life. Imagine the sweet and tangy notes of cranberries mingling with warm spices. It’s like a cozy winter evening wrapped in a slice of cake.
So, if you’re ready to impress your family and friends, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need for this festive delight.
Ingredients
- 5 cups frozen cranberries (or 3 3/4 cups dried cranberries soaked in orange juice or water for 30-60 minutes)
- 4 cups coarsely chopped pecans
- 2 cups golden raisins
- 4 cups all-purpose flour, divided
- 1 1/2 cups margarine (or butter)
- 2 1/2 cups sugar
- 7 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground nutmeg
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup brandy
- 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange liqueur (like Triple Sec) or orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Now, before you rush off to the store, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. First off, the cranberries are the star of the show. If you can get your hands on fresh cranberries, fantastic! But frozen works just as well and saves you a trip to the store.
As for the pecans, feel free to swap them with walnuts if that’s more your style. And don’t worry if your butter is looking a little too soft — just think of it as giving your cake a nice, creamy hug.
Finally, the brandy adds a lovely depth of flavor, but if you prefer to keep things alcohol-free, you can easily substitute it with extra orange juice. Just remember, this cake is all about creating those warm, festive memories, so don’t stress too much over the details. Happy baking!
How to Make Cranberry Christmas Cake
Alright, let’s plunge into the delightful process of making this Cranberry Christmas Cake. First up, grab 5 cups of frozen cranberries (or if you’ve opted for dried cranberries, make sure you’ve soaked 3 3/4 cups of them in orange juice or water for about 30-60 minutes).
While those are soaking, it’s time to prepare your other ingredients. In a large bowl, toss those cranberries, along with 4 cups of coarsely chopped pecans and 2 cups of golden raisins, with 1 cup of flour. This little trick helps to keep the fruit from sinking to the bottom of your cake while it bakes.
Now, let’s get that batter going. Preheat your oven to a cozy 275 degrees, and don’t forget to spray a 10-inch removable-bottom tube pan with cooking spray before giving it a light dusting of flour.
In a separate, extra-large mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups of margarine (or butter, if you’re feeling fancy) with 2 1/2 cups of sugar. Beat them together at medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy—think clouds on a sunny day.
Then, crack in 7 eggs, one by one, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and now it’s time for the fun part: the dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, sift together 3 cups of the remaining flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, 2 teaspoons of ground nutmeg, and 3/4 teaspoon of salt.
Here’s where it gets interesting. Alternating with 1/2 cup of brandy, slowly mix the dry blend into your eggy goodness in three batches. Finally, gently fold in the cranberry mixture, and pour that wonderfully colorful batter into your prepared pan.
Pop that cake into the oven and let it bake for about 3 hours. Yes, you read that right. Three whole hours. It may sound like a marathon, but trust me, it’s worth every minute. The tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking when they can indulge.
Once it’s done, check with a toothpick inserted near the center – it should come out clean. After removing the cake from the oven, place it on a wire rack and let it cool completely.
While it’s cooling, whip up the frosting by combining 1 1/2 cups of softened unsalted butter with 4 cups of confectioners’ sugar. Beat until fluffy, then add 2 tablespoons of orange liqueur (or orange juice if you’re keeping it simple) and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Frost your cooled cake, sprinkle some sugared frozen cranberries on top, and if you’re feeling a bit extra, toss on some lemon leaves for a festive touch. And there you have it, a beautiful Cranberry Christmas Cake that’s sure to impress. Happy baking!
Cranberry Christmas Cake Substitutions & Variations
There are several easy substitutions and variations you can try to make the Cranberry Christmas Cake your own.
If you want a nut-free version, simply leave out the pecans or swap them for sunflower seeds. For a gluten-free option, use a blend of gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour.
You can also experiment with different dried fruits, like cherries or apricots, for a unique twist. If you’re not a fan of brandy, replace it with apple juice or omit it entirely.
Finally, consider adding a dash of almond extract for extra flavor. Enjoy customizing your cake!
What to Serve with Cranberry Christmas Cake
When you’re ready to serve your Cranberry Christmas Cake, consider pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Both options complement the cake’s tartness beautifully.
If you want a twist, try serving it with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted pecans for added texture.
I also love to enjoy it with a cup of spiced tea or coffee, which enhances the seasonal flavors.
For a festive touch, garnish the plate with fresh cranberries or a sprig of mint. These pairings elevate your dessert experience and delight your guests!
Additional Tips & Notes
Although baking a Cranberry Christmas Cake can seem intimidating, a few extra tips can make the process smoother and the results even more delicious.
First, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature; this helps create a better batter consistency. I also recommend soaking dried cranberries in orange juice for added flavor and moisture.
Don’t rush the baking process—slow and steady at 275 degrees really allows the flavors to meld.
Finally, letting the cake cool completely before frosting prevents the icing from melting.
These little tweaks can elevate your cake, making it a holiday favorite on your table!