1. Introduction
As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing more welcoming than the aroma of a freshly baked cake filling your home. Our Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake is the perfect fusion of tangy cranberries and a rich, buttery cake, creating a festive treat that everyone will love. This cake is not only a delightful dessert but also a beautiful centerpiece for your Christmas table. It’s simple yet elegant, combining traditional flavors with a modern twist. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through each step to ensure your cake turns out perfectly. So, let’s start our baking journey and make this holiday season even more special with a homemade Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake.
2. Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- Zest of 1 orange
3. & 4. Directions & How to Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the cranberries and orange zest gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Preparation Time
- Preparing: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 60-70 minutes
- Cooling: 30 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours
6. Servings
This recipe yields one 9-inch loaf, serving about 8-10 slices.
7. FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh? A: Yes, frozen cranberries work well, just don’t thaw them before adding to the batter.
Q: How can I prevent the cranberries from sinking to the bottom? A: Toss the cranberries in a little flour before folding them into the batter.
Q: Can this cake be made in advance? A: Absolutely! This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Q: How should I store the leftover cake? A: Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer storage.
Q: Can I add nuts to the recipe? A: Yes, adding chopped walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch to the cake.
8. Conclusion
Our Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of the festive spirit. With its rich, buttery texture and bursts of tart cranberries, this cake is sure to bring joy to your holiday gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at baking for the first time, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Imagine slicing into this moist, flavorful cake surrounded by your loved ones, sharing stories and laughter. That’s the true essence of the holiday season. So, don your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s make this Christmas a memorable one with the best Cranberry Pound Cake. Happy Baking and Happy Holidays!