Name: Cranberry Christmas Cake with Vanilla Glaze for Festive Joy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 3 large Eggs (room temperature); 1 cup Sugar (can use brown sugar); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened to room temperature); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract (optional); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour); 1 teaspoon Salt; 2 cups Fresh Cranberries (or use alternatives); 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 2 tablespoons Milk (add gradually)

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself reflecting on the aromatic memories of past Christmases—spicy gingerbread, buttery shortbread, and of course, the vibrant crunch of cranberries. This Easy Cranberry Christmas Cake with Vanilla Glaze perfectly captures that festive spirit. With its blend of tangy cranberries and a sweet vanilla drizzle, this cake not only elevates your dessert table but is also a breeze to whip up. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or looking for a heartfelt gift, this recipe promises to impress with minimal effort. Plus, with the option to use fresh, frozen, or dried cranberries, you can adapt it to what you have on hand. Are you ready to dive into a slice of holiday joy?

Why Is This Cake a Holiday Must?

Simplicity at its finest: You’ll love how easy it is to make this Cranberry Christmas Cake with Vanilla Glaze, requiring minimal prep and just a few basic ingredients.
Festive Flavors shine through: The tart cranberries paired with sweet vanilla create a delightful contrast that’s perfect for the holidays.
Versatile options await: Bake it in springform, loaf, or muffin tins, allowing you to tailor it to any occasion or personal preference.
Giftable goodness: This cake is not only perfect for your own celebrations but also makes a charming gift for friends and family.
Crowd-pleaser delight: It’s a hit at holiday gatherings, sure to impress guests when served alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea, just like our Coconut Cake Cheese or Carrot Cake Cheesecake.
Make Ahead friendly: Store it for up to three days, making it ideal for pre-holiday preparations!

Cranberry Christmas Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

Large Eggs – Provides structure and moisture; use room temperature for better incorporation.
Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with the cake’s rise; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; can be substituted with pure almond extract for a different taste.
Almond Extract – Adds a subtle nutty flavor; omit if not preferred or substitute with additional vanilla extract.
All-Purpose Flour – Acts as the bulk ingredient providing structure; substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour if necessary.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Fresh Cranberries – Provides a tangy flavor and moisture; can use 2 ½ cups frozen cranberries (thawed and dried) or 1 2/3 cups dried cranberries as alternatives.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – For the glaze, offers sweetness and a smooth finish.
Milk – Helps achieve the desired glaze consistency; add gradually for best results.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Christmas Cake with Vanilla Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a 10-inch springform pan with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy removal of the cake later. This first step sets the perfect stage for baking your delightful Cranberry Christmas Cake with Vanilla Glaze.

Step 2: Beat the Eggs and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the room temperature eggs and sugar at high speed for 6 to 8 minutes. You’re looking for a pale, fluffy mixture that doubles in volume, indicating it’s ready for the next ingredients. This creates a light base that helps the cake rise beautifully.

Step 3: Combine with Butter and Extracts
Next, incorporate the softened unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract into the egg mixture. Beat for an additional 2 minutes until the batter is well combined and smooth. The creamy texture at this stage adds richness to your Cranberry Christmas Cake, ensuring every slice is moist and tasty.

Step 4: Fold in Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and salt, followed by the fresh cranberries, until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be thick and the cranberries evenly distributed throughout. This step infuses the cake with bursts of tart flavor, essential for the festive spirit.

Step 5: Bake the Cake
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared springform pan. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As it bakes, your kitchen will fill with the sweet scent of cranberries and vanilla.

Step 6: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 20 minutes. Then, carefully remove the outer ring of the springform pan and transfer the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period helps set the rich flavors of your Cranberry Christmas Cake with Vanilla Glaze.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While your cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, a splash of almond extract, and enough milk to reach a thick but pourable consistency. Start with a small amount of milk and adjust until you achieve the desired glaze texture. This sweet topping will enhance your cake’s festive charm.

Step 8: Drizzle and Serve
Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the prepared vanilla glaze generously over the top. Allow the glaze to slightly set before slicing into your beautiful Cranberry Christmas Cake. This delightful treat is perfect for enjoying with loved ones or wrapping as a lovely holiday gift.

Expert Tips for Cranberry Christmas Cake

Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature; this helps them incorporate better into the batter for a fluffier cake.
Cranberry Drying: Avoid excess moisture by drying your cranberries with a towel if using frozen; this prevents your batter from becoming too wet.
Gentle Folding: When combining the dry ingredients and cranberries, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to a tougher cake, so stop as soon as everything is just blended.
Glaze Consistency: Add milk to the glaze gradually; too much at once can make it runny. Aim for a consistency that only drizzles down the sides of the cake.
Baking Pan Options: Feel free to bake your Cranberry Christmas Cake in a loaf pan or muffin tins for varied servings, adjusting baking time as needed.

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Christmas Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake tightly covered in a cool, dry place for up to 3 days. This keeps the moist texture intact while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can chill the cake in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just ensure it’s wrapped well to prevent drying out and absorbing any odors.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and place in a resealable freezer bag. It’ll stay fresh for up to 1 month.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before drizzling with the vanilla glaze. This makes the Cranberry Christmas Cake even more delightful!

What to Serve with Easy Cranberry Christmas Cake with Vanilla Glaze

Indulging in a slice of this delightful cake opens the door to a world of festive flavors and comforting textures.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of light and airy whipped cream adds a creamy contrast, enhancing the cake’s tangy cranberries.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve it warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream; the melting creaminess beautifully complements the sweetness of the glaze.
Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs perfectly, balancing the sweetness while warming your soul on a chilly holiday evening.
Spiced Nuts: A handful of spiced nuts brings a delightful crunch and adds a savory balance to the cake’s sweet profile.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with citrus-infused dressing adds brightness, cutting through the richness while providing a refreshing contrast.
Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy cheese offers a sophisticated touch, inviting flavors that enhance the overall holiday experience.
Mulled Wine: Warm mulled wine, with its spices and warmth, complements the holiday spirit, making your get-together even cozier.
Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling rich chocolate ganache on top can elevate your Cranberry Christmas Cake to a decadent dessert, delivering a luscious experience with each bite.
Shortbread Cookies: For a sweet accompaniment, pair it with buttery shortbread cookies, providing a classic touch that everyone adores.

Make Ahead Options

This Easy Cranberry Christmas Cake with Vanilla Glaze is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all ingredients except the cranberries, which should be added right before baking (to maintain their freshness). Store the batter in the refrigerator, covered tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake as directed. Additionally, once the cake has cooled, you can make the vanilla glaze up to 3 days ahead; just keep it refrigerated and stir before drizzling over the cake. This way, you can effortlessly serve a delightful dessert with minimal effort on the day of your gathering!

Cranberry Christmas Cake Variations

Feel free to explore your creativity and make this delightful cranberry cake truly your own!

Frozen or Dried Cranberries: Substitute fresh cranberries with 2 ½ cups of thawed frozen cranberries or 1 2/3 cups dried cranberries for a different texture. Adjust sweetness as needed.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free all-purpose blend, ensuring everyone can savor this festive treat. You won’t lose any flavor or moisture with this smart swap!
Fruity Fusion: Try using chopped apples or other berries in place of cranberries for a fruity twist. The sweetness of apples complements the tartness wonderfully, making every bite a warm hug.
Almond-Free: If almonds are not your thing, simply omit the almond extract and double the vanilla for a classic taste. It keeps the cake crowd-friendly!
Mini Muffins: Bake the batter in muffin tins for adorable bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing at parties. Just adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes!
Citrusy Glaze: Mix in a splash of orange juice or lemon zest to the glaze for a zesty twist. The citrus notes give a fresh lift that brightens the entire cake.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an extra layer of warmth and holiday spirit. Your guests will be asking for the recipe, just like they do for our Coffee Caramel Cake!
Decorative Toppings: Top with chopped pecans or a sprinkle of coconut for added crunch and flavor contrast. These elements can make your cake visually stunning, perfect for festive presentations!

Don’t hesitate to experiment and customize with what you have in your pantry—holiday baking is all about joy and creativity!

Cranberry Christmas Cake with Vanilla Glaze Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right cranberries?
Absolutely! When selecting fresh cranberries, look for plump, firm berries that are bright in color. Avoid those with dark spots or wrinkles, as they may be overripe. If you plan to use frozen cranberries, make sure they are thawed and properly dried with a towel to reduce excess moisture in your cake.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very! Store the Cranberry Christmas Cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist. If you prefer to refrigerate it, wrap it well to prevent drying out and keep it fresh for up to a week. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving to enjoy the flavors fully.

Can I freeze the Cranberry Christmas Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled Cranberry Christmas Cake tightly in plastic wrap and place it inside a resealable freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before adding the glaze; this makes for a delightful treat!

Why did my cake sink in the middle?
Don’t worry! A sinking cake can happen for a few reasons: overmixing the batter can lead to too much air, resulting in collapse; or the oven temperature may have been too high, causing it to rise rapidly then fall. Make sure to beat the batter just until combined, and always use an oven thermometer to ensure the right baking temperature.

Is this cake suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Very! If needed, you can easily adapt the recipe. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free all-purpose flour as a substitute for regular flour. Additionally, if someone has an almond allergy, simply omit the almond extract and use more vanilla extract instead. Just be sure to keep an eye on any allergens when serving!