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You won’t believe how easy this Cranberry Cake Recipe is to make. With holidays approaching, desserts are planned early. Made with simple ingredients, this cake combines tart cranberries and sweet flavors perfectly. Because it’s a crowd-pleaser, it’s always requested for gatherings. For busy moms, this recipe feels quick and stress-free.

When it comes to easy dessert recipes, this one is a lifesaver for busy families. Tart cranberries, fluffy batter, and a touch of sweetness work together so beautifully. It’s perfect for holiday baking, but it’s also a hit with kids after school.

Even picky eaters will ask for seconds, and trust me, that’s saying something. Plus, the recipe can be prepped quickly, and clean-up is simple—which every mom appreciates. Whether it’s for a festive dinner or a cozy weekend treat, it’ll become your go-to dessert.

Feeding a crowd can feel overwhelming, but recipes like this make it so much easier. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it’s a breeze to pull together. The best part? It’s a dessert that feels warm and homemade, bringing everyone to the table with smiles. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual potluck, this cake creates a sense of comfort and togetherness. And as a busy mom, knowing it’s stress-free leaves more time to enjoy the little moments with family and friends.

Holiday Cake Recipes

Cakes have a way of making every holiday gathering feel extra special. From the rich, chocolatey decadence of a classic chocolate cake, to the warm and spiced notes of a rum cake, each bite feels like a little celebration. We also love a blend of nutty sweetness and bursts of fruity flavor, while holiday-inspired creations bring festive colors and aromas that instantly fill the room with cheer. We think you will also love these recipes.

• Almond Cherry Bundt Cake
• Spice Rum Cake
• Holiday Bundt Cake Recipes
• Chocolate Bundt Cake

Ingredients Needed for this Cranberry Cake Recipe

Here’s what you need to make this cozy dessert:

• large eggs (room temp) they are the foundation of the cake’s structure, binding everything together. Using room-temperature eggs creates a smoother batter and helps it rise beautifully.

• granulated sugar it does more than sweeten the cake—it also helps create a soft, tender crumb. It balances the tartness of the cranberries perfectly.

• unsalted butter (softened) adds richness and moisture, giving the cake its buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Softened butter blends better, making the batter silky smooth.

• vanilla extract offers a classic, cozy flavor that enhances the sweetness and rounds out all the other ingredients. It’s an essential “warmth” factor.

• almond extract adds a subtle nutty note that pairs beautifully with the cranberries. It’s a small addition that makes the flavor more special.

• all purpose flour provides the structure of the cake. It holds everything together while keeping the crumb tender and light when measured just right.

• fresh cranberries are the star of this recipe! Their tartness cuts through the sweetness and adds bursts of flavor, making every bite exciting.

• Powder sugar for garnish a light dusting of powdered sugar is the finishing touch. It adds a lovely visual appeal and just a hint of extra sweetness.

These ingredients work together so effortlessly, making this cake delightful, festive, and downright irresistible! Wouldn’t you agree?

Shop My Kitchen

While you’re here make sure you check out our list of yummy poke cake recipes that I believe your family will love! And if you’re a big peanut butter fan, I think you will love our homemade peanut butter toffee pie.

Christmas Table Decor from Amazon

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Can you soak the fresh cranberries before adding them to the cake mix?

Yes, soaking fresh cranberries before adding them to the cake mix is an option. This can help to soften the berries and mellow their tartness. You might soak them in water, juice, or even a flavored liquid like orange juice to add a hint of extra flavor. Just make sure to drain them well before incorporating them into the cake mix to prevent adding too much moisture. If you have more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!

If you’re planning to soak cranberries before baking, about 15 to 30 minutes should be sufficient. This time allows the cranberries to absorb some of the liquid, softening them slightly and reducing their tartness. Just remember to drain them well before adding them to your cake mix to avoid excess moisture.

Soaking cranberries in juice rather than water can be a great way to enhance their flavor. Using a juice like orange or apple can add a subtle sweetness and complementary flavor to the cranberries, which can enrich the overall taste of your cake. This can be especially nice if you want to add a bit more depth to the flavor profile.

What is the secret to making a good cake?

The secret to making a good cake lies in a few key practices:

1. Quality Ingredients: Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients. This includes fresh eggs, good butter, and pure extracts, which can make a big difference in flavor.
2. Accurate Measurements: Baking is a science, so precise measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy, especially with flour, to avoid a dense cake.
3. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure ingredients like eggs and butter are at room temperature. This helps them blend more smoothly, resulting in a better texture.
4. Proper Mixing: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake due to gluten development.
5. Preheated Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. An accurate oven temperature ensures even baking and a perfect rise.
6. Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cake towards the end of the baking time. A cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs.
7. Cooling: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps prevent it from becoming soggy.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking a delicious cake every time! If you have any more questions or need further advice, feel free to ask.

Can I bake this Cranberry Cake Recipe in advance?

Yes, you can definitely make a cake ahead of time! Here are a few tips to ensure it stays fresh and delicious:

1. Baking in Advance: You can bake the cake a day or two before you plan to serve it. Once it’s completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
2. Freezing: If you need to prepare the cake several days or weeks in advance, you can freeze it. Wrap the cake in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
3. Storage: If you’re not freezing the cake, store it at room temperature in an airtight container. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor.

This should help make planning and prepping easier, especially around the holidays.

If i don’t have eggs on hand for this recipe what can I use instead?

If you don’t have eggs on hand, there are several substitutes you can use in your cake recipe, depending on what you have available and any dietary preferences:

1. Applesauce: Use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce to replace one egg. This works well for adding moisture.
2. Mashed Banana: Use 1/4 cup of mashed banana per egg. This will add a slight banana flavor, which can be a nice addition to some cakes. I don’t know that I would use banana for this cake, but it is an option.
3. Yogurt or Buttermilk: Use 1/4 cup of plain yogurt or buttermilk for each egg. These add moisture and a bit of tanginess.
4. Vinegar and Baking Soda: Mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar with 1 teaspoon of baking soda to replace one egg. This helps with leavening.
5. Commercial Egg Replacer: Use a store-bought egg replacer according to the package instructions. These are designed to mimic the binding and leavening properties of eggs.

Each substitute may slightly alter the texture or flavor of your cake, so choose one that best fits your recipe and taste preferences. If you have more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!

Cake Baking Essentials at Amazon

Amazon is an excellent choice for buying cake baking essentials because it offers unmatched variety and convenience. Whether you’re looking for everyday items like flour, sugar, and pans, or specialty tools and ingredients like silicone molds or almond flour, you’ll find it all in one place. Competitive pricing ensures you get great value, while customer reviews help you choose the best products with confidence. With fast shipping options like Prime, you can have everything you need delivered right to your door—sometimes within a day—saving you a trip to the store. From beginners to seasoned bakers, Amazon makes sourcing your baking supplies effortless and enjoyable.

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I can’t wait to hear how much your family loves this cake recipe and the memories you make year after year as this recipe becomes a tradition for you!

Dessert Recipes for Christmas

Christmas desserts bring a sense of magic to the season, filling your home with irresistible aromas and creating moments of joy with every bite. From luscious cheesecake ideas to the festive crunch of peppermint, there’s something to make every sweet tooth happy.

• Holiday Cheesecake Recipes
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So, whether you’re baking for a holiday get-together or just treating the family, this cranberry cake is an absolute win. It’s quick, uses pantry staples, and spreads so much cheer. The sweet-tart flavors are always a hit, and everyone feels cared for when something homemade is served. What’s better than a dessert that’s stress-free and loved by all? The kitchen might get a little messy, but those happy family moments are totally worth it. Give it a try—you’ll see smiles all around, guaranteed!