Introduction
Cranberry Christmas Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly embodies the flavors of the holiday season. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet brown sugar creates a delectable topping, while the moist cake beneath offers a rich texture enhanced by sour cream. This cake is sure to impress your guests and make your holiday gatherings even more special.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Topping:
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/3 cup butter
– 2 cups fresh cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
For the Cake:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
Prep Time
The preparation time for Cranberry Christmas Cake is approximately 20 minutes, allowing you to gather and mix the ingredients efficiently.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: About 1 hour
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes
Yield: Serves about 10-12 slices
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Cranberry Christmas Cake, a festive treat that is sure to become a new holiday favorite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Wrap the outside bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with aluminum foil to prevent leaking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set the mixture aside for later use.
Step 3: Make the Topping
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar and 1/3 cup butter. Stir frequently until the mixture comes to a boil. Once it has boiled, remove from heat and pour it into the prepared springform pan.
Step 4: Add Cranberries and Nuts
Evenly spread the cranberries and chopped pecans or walnuts over the brown sugar mixture in the pan.
Step 5: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened 1/2 cup butter and white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 6: Incorporate Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to combine.
Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined after each addition.
Step 8: Pour the Batter
Spread the batter evenly over the cranberry and nut layer in the pan, ensuring it covers the toppings well.
Step 9: Bake the Cake
Bake the cake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Cooling and Inverting the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. After cooling, invert the cake onto a serving platter and carefully remove the springform pan.
Notes
Tip 1: Springform Pan
Using a springform pan helps achieve a neat presentation, as it allows for easy removal of the cake without damage.
Tip 2: Serving Suggestion
This Cranberry Christmas Cake is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch.
Tip 3: Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for a week.
Cook techniques
Sifting
Sifting ingredients like flour, baking powder, and baking soda helps to aerate them, ensuring a lighter cake. It also removes any lumps and mixes the dry ingredients evenly.
Creaming
Creaming butter and sugar together creates air pockets in the mixture, which will help the cake rise. It is essential to beat until light and fluffy.
Alternating Ingredients
When adding dry ingredients and sour cream, alternate between the two. This method helps maintain a smooth batter and ensures even mixing without overworking the gluten in the flour.
Layering
Carefully layer the cranberry and nut mixture before adding the cake batter. This ensures the topping remains intact and creates a beautiful presentation when the cake is inverted.
Inverting the Cake
After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for a short period before inverting it. This technique helps preserve the topping while allowing the cake to release easily from the springform pan.
FAQ
Can I substitute cranberries with other fruits?
Yes, you can substitute cranberries with other tart fruits like cherries or raspberries, but be mindful of the sweetness level.
Is it necessary to use a springform pan?
While a springform pan is recommended for easy removal, you can use a regular round pan. Just be sure to line it properly, so the cake doesn’t stick.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt or buttermilk can be used as substitutes for sour cream, providing a similar texture and tangy flavor.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake ahead of time. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
The Cranberry Christmas Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of brown sugar and the richness of a buttery cake. Its unique flavor profile, enhanced by the crunchy texture of nuts and the warm notes of cinnamon, makes it a festive choice for holiday gatherings. This cake not only impresses with its taste but also with its beautiful presentation when inverted, showcasing the delicious toppings.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cranberry Orange Muffins
Combine fresh cranberries with orange zest and juice for a bright and zesty muffin that pairs well with breakfast or tea.
Pecan Pie Bars
Mix together a buttery crust with pecans and a sweet filling to create decadent bars that are perfect for sharing during the holidays.
Cranberry Walnut Salad
Toss fresh cranberries with walnuts, mixed greens, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and colorful salad option.
Cinnamon Swirl Coffee Cake
Create a delicious coffee cake swirl with cinnamon and sugar, offering a great complement to the Cranberry Christmas Cake for dessert spreads.
Pumpkin Spice Bread
Bake moist and flavorful pumpkin bread infused with warm spices, providing a cozy alternative that celebrates seasonal flavors.
Apple Crisp with Nuts
Prepare a warm apple crisp topped with a crunchy nut-infused topping, making for a comforting dessert perfect for chilly nights.
