Name: Cranberry Christmas Cake with Vanilla Glaze Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 3 large eggs (at room temperature); 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 cups fresh cranberries (or substitute with dried cranberries); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon milk (adjust for consistency)

Amidst the flurry of holiday preparations, nothing delights quite like the enticing aroma of a cake baking in the oven. This Easy Cranberry Christmas Cake with Vanilla Glaze is a celebration of seasonal flavors, perfectly balancing the sweet and tart essence of cranberries. Not only is this dessert incredibly easy to whip up, but it also stands out as an eye-catching centerpiece for any festive gathering, be it Christmas morning brunch or cozy afternoon tea. Imagine slicing into a moist cake, each bite showcasing fresh bursts of cranberry goodness, all topped with a luscious vanilla glaze that adds just the right touch of sweetness. Who wouldn’t want a slice of this joyful creation? Ready to impress your family and friends with a homemade treat that’s sure to become a holiday tradition? Let’s dive into the delightful details of this recipe!

Why is this cake a holiday hit?

Irresistible Flavor: This Cranberry Christmas Cake combines sweet and tart flavors, making it a delightful treat to savor during the holiday season.

Easy to Make: The simple preparation means that even novice bakers can create a show-stopping dessert!

Seasonal Ingredients: With fresh cranberries in-season, this cake bursts with festive flavors that embody the essence of winter celebrations.

Perfect Presentation: The drizzled vanilla glaze adds an elegant touch, ensuring it looks as impressive as it tastes at your holiday gatherings.

Versatile Variations: Whether you use fresh, frozen, or dried cranberries, this recipe adapts beautifully to your pantry’s offerings, just like Coconut Cake Cheese for a different dessert experience!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: This cake is sure to be a hit, making it a go-to favorite for your holiday festivities. Who could resist a slice?

Cranberry Christmas Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

Large Eggs – Provide structure and moisture; ensure they are at room temperature for better mixing.
Sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps achieve a lovely golden color.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor; should be softened to room temperature for seamless incorporation.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor, adding warmth to the cake.
Almond Extract – Offers a subtle nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the cranberries.
All-Purpose Flour – The main building block for the cake structure, essential for stability.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the flavors in the cake.
Fresh Cranberries – Bursting with tartness and moisture; if using frozen, ensure to thaw and drain well. Substitute with 2 cups of dried cranberries, adjusting to 1 2/3 cups for sweetness.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Provides a sweet topping; mixes easily with milk for a smooth and delightful glaze.
Milk – Helps achieve the ideal consistency for drizzling the glaze over the cake.

Indulge in the festive flavors of this Cranberry Christmas Cake with Vanilla Glaze that’s sure to be a holiday sensation!

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

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, prepare a 10-inch springform pan by greasing it lightly. This ensures your Cranberry Christmas Cake will easily release from the pan after baking, setting the stage for a beautiful reveal.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the large eggs and sugar, beating on high speed until the mixture is pale yellow and fluffy—approximately 6 to 8 minutes. This step introduces air, vital for a light texture, and will make your Cranberry Christmas Cake delightfully tender.

Step 3: Add Butter and Extracts
Once your egg mixture has reached that lovely fluffy stage, it’s time to incorporate the softened unsalted butter along with the vanilla and almond extracts. Continue mixing for about 2 minutes until the batter is smooth and creamy. The enticing aroma of the extracts will fill your kitchen, promising a flavorful cake ahead.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the all-purpose flour, salt, and cranberries using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until you can no longer see dry flour. The batter will be thick and lumpy, but that’s just perfect for your Cranberry Christmas Cake, which will rise and give you delicious, tart bites.

Step 5: Baking
Pour the batter into your prepared springform pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The warm scent of cranberries will fill your home, signaling that the holidays are here!

Step 6: Cool Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 20 minutes. After the time is up, carefully remove the ring of the springform pan and transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the cake to set perfectly before you add the glaze.

Step 7: Prepare Glaze
As your cake cools, it’s time to whip up the delicious vanilla glaze. In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar, almond extract, and 1 tablespoon of milk. Stir until smooth, adjusting the milk as necessary to achieve your desired drizzling consistency. The glaze will bring an extra touch of sweetness to your Cranberry Christmas Cake.

Step 8: Glaze Cake
Finally, drizzle the prepared glaze over the completely cooled cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a beautiful presentation. This finishing touch highlights the vibrant cranberries peeking through the cake, making it as stunning as it is sumptuous.

What to Serve with Easy Cranberry Christmas Cake with Vanilla Glaze

As you prepare to celebrate the holidays, consider these delightful pairings to elevate your festive gatherings.

Spiced Hot Cider: A warm cup of spiced hot cider complements the tartness of the cranberry cake, creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
Rich Coffee: Brew a pot of your favorite coffee; its bold flavors contrast beautifully with the sweet vanilla glaze and tart cranberries.
Festive Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, pomegranate seeds, and candied nuts adds a burst of color and balances the sweetness of the cake.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For a unique twist, serve creamy mashed potatoes on the side during a holiday dinner. Their smooth texture contrasts nicely with the cake’s moist crumb.
Cheese Platter: Create a beautiful cheese board featuring brie, goat cheese, and sharp cheddar. The savory flavors enhance the cake’s sweetness.
Spiced Tea: Serve a cup of warm spiced tea, like chai or chai latte; the aromatic spices will make your dessert experience feel extra special.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with warm cranberry sauce offers a creamy cold contrast to the dense cake.
Chocolate Fondue: Set up a decadent chocolate fondue station; guests can dip fruit or pieces of cake, making for a fun and interactive dessert experience.
Eggnog: This classic holiday drink pairs wonderfully, offering a creamy, spiced complement to the tart cake.
Cranberry Juice Cocktail: A refreshing cranberry juice cocktail serves as a bright, fruity drink option, enhancing the seasonal flavors in your dessert.

Expert Tips for Cranberry Christmas Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for easy mixing and optimal texture in your Cranberry Christmas Cake.
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined to prevent a dense cake. Overworking the batter kills the fluffiness.
Use Fresh Cranberries: For the best flavor and moisture, opt for fresh cranberries. If using frozen, remember to thaw and drain them well to avoid sogginess.
Cool Thoroughly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps it maintain its shape and texture.
Glaze Consistency: Adjust the milk in the glaze gradually for the perfect drizzling consistency—enough to flow, but not too runny.

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Christmas Cake

Room Temperature: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you need to store it longer, place the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Note that refrigeration may slightly alter the texture.

Freezer: To freeze your Cranberry Christmas Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored for up to 1 month.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before glazing for best results.

Cranberry Christmas Cake Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists on the classic recipe, bringing your own flair to this holiday favorite!

Frozen Cranberries: Substitute 2 ½ cups of thawed frozen cranberries for fresh ones; just remember to drain them well before use.
Dried Cranberries: Opt for 2 cups of dried cranberries, adjusting the sweetness by reducing them to 1 2/3 cups if desired for your cake.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a lovely nutty crunch that perfectly complements the tartness of the cranberries.
Spicy Kick: Stir in a teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger for a delightful autumnal spice that warms up the flavors of this festive cake.
Cupcake Version: Transform the batter into cupcakes or mini loaves for convenient, individual servings. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Gluten-Free Alternative: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a tasty gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.
Lemon Zest Boost: Incorporate zest from one lemon into the batter to brighten the flavor profile with a hint of citrus, enhancing the tartness of the cranberries.
Southern Touch: For a touch of Southern charm, drizzle cream cheese frosting instead of the traditional glaze for a richer, decadent experience.

Whichever variation you choose, this Cranberry Christmas Cake with Vanilla Glaze will bask in a festive glow, creating memories just like a slice of Coffee Caramel Cake enjoyed around the family table!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing this Cranberry Christmas Cake with Vanilla Glaze ahead of time is a fantastic way to alleviate the holiday baking crunch! You can mix the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, which helps the flavors meld beautifully. Additionally, you can bake the cake up to 3 days in advance; simply ensure it’s completely cool before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture. When you’re ready to serve, drizzle the glaze over the top to give that fresh and festive touch. This way, you’ll have a stunning dessert with minimal last-minute effort, ensuring you can enjoy the celebrations stress-free!

Cranberry Christmas Cake with Vanilla Glaze Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberries should I use for the cake?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh cranberries for the best flavor and moisture, especially since they’re in season during the holidays. If you can’t find fresh ones, you can use 2 ½ cups of thawed frozen cranberries or 1 2/3 cups of dried cranberries, keeping in mind that dried will alter the texture and sweetness.

How should I store the cake after baking?
To keep your Cranberry Christmas Cake fresh, store it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, an airtight container in the fridge will work for up to a week, but be mindful that refrigeration might slightly affect the cake’s texture.

Can I freeze the Cranberry Christmas Cake?
Yes, you can freeze your cake! Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before adding the glaze for the best result.

What should I do if my cake turns out dense?
Very! If your cake ends up dense, it’s often due to overmixing the batter once the flour is added. Make sure to mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Also, double-check that your eggs and butter are at room temperature, which helps achieve a fluffier cake.

Is this cake safe for those with food allergies?
Indeed! This Cranberry Christmas Cake contains common allergens like eggs and dairy. If you have allergies, you can substitute the eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use a dairy-free butter alternative. Always ensure to check the labels of all ingredients used for any potential allergens.

What’s the best way to check if the cake is done?
The best way to know if your cake is perfectly baked is to insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready! You’ll also want to check for a golden-brown color on the top and gently press on the center—if it springs back, that’s a good sign!