Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake has been a cherished tradition in my family for as long as I can remember. I still recall the comforting aroma filling my grandmother’s kitchen, a magical blend of tart cranberries and sweet almond, signaling the start of the holiday season. This festive dessert always brought a smile to everyone’s face, a perfect balance of flavors that truly captures the spirit of Christmas. It’s more than just a cake; it’s a memory in every bite, and I’ve discovered it makes a fantastic Holiday Cranberry Almond Loaf too, especially when you’re looking for an easy ground turkey dinner alternative. I promise this homemade Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake will become a beloved part of your celebrations. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake
I know you’re going to adore this Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake, and here’s why I think it’s the perfect addition to your holiday spread:
- It offers an incredible balance of tart cranberries and sweet, nutty almond, making every bite a delight.
- This festive cranberry almond cake recipe is surprisingly easy to make, even for novice bakers.
- The prep time is minimal, allowing you more time to enjoy the holiday festivities.
- It’s a wonderful way to incorporate fruit into your holiday dessert spread.
- Making this Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake at home is much more budget-friendly than store-bought options.
- This delicious festive cranberry almond cake recipe is a true crowd-pleaser and perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients for Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake
To create this delightful Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake, you’ll need a few key ingredients. I find that using good quality items really makes a difference in the final flavor of this homemade cranberry almond cake Christmas recipe.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted – Sifting ensures a light, airy texture for your cake.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – This is essential for the cake’s rise and tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Provides the perfect sweetness for this festive cake.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Room temperature butter creams beautifully for a moist cake.
- 3 large eggs – Also at room temperature, for better emulsification and a smoother batter.
- 2 teaspoons almond extract – This is where the wonderful almond flavor comes from!
- 1 cup whole milk – Adds richness and moisture to your Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries – The star of the show, providing that signature tartness.
- 1 cup toasted sliced almonds – Adds a lovely crunch and nutty depth.
- 1 tablespoon orange zest – Brightens the flavors and complements the cranberries.
- 1 cup powdered sugar (optional, for topping) – For a simple, elegant dusting.
- 1/2 cup whole cranberries and almonds (optional, for garnish) – Perfect for a festive presentation.
How to Make Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake
Making this delightful Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake is a joyful experience. Follow these cranberry almond cake baking instructions carefully for a perfectly moist and flavorful holiday treat. I promise, the aromas filling your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly!
- Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch cake pan by greasing it thoroughly and lining the bottom with parchment paper. This ensures your beautiful cake won’t stick.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. I always make sure these dry ingredients are well combined for a consistent texture throughout the cake.
- Step 3: In a separate, larger bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Continue beating for about 3 minutes until the mixture is pale, light, and wonderfully fluffy. This step incorporates air, contributing to a tender crumb.
- Step 4: Add the eggs to the butter mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the milk and almond extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and silky; don’t overmix here!
- Step 5: Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake. Next, carefully fold in the fresh or frozen cranberries, toasted sliced almonds, and orange zest. These additions provide vibrant color and a delightful crunch to your Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake.
- Step 6: Pour the prepared batter evenly into your greased cake pan. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out comes out clean. The cake should also spring back slightly when gently pressed. These cranberry almond cake baking instructions ensure a perfectly cooked cake.
- Step 7: Once baked, allow the Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This helps the cake set before you attempt to move it.
- Step 8: After 10 minutes, carefully transfer the cake from the pan to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar and garnish with reserved cranberries and almonds for a truly festive presentation. Enjoy this homemade cranberry almond cake!
Pro Tips for the Best Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that will elevate your Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake from good to absolutely unforgettable. Paying attention to these small details guarantees a delicious result every time.
- Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter and even bake.
- Don’t overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added; this can result in a tough cake.
- Lightly dust your cranberries with a teaspoon of flour before adding them to the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
- Toasting your almonds beforehand really brings out their nutty flavor and adds an extra layer of deliciousness.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing for clean cuts and the best texture.
What’s the secret to perfect Moist cranberry almond cake for holidays?
The real secret to a perfectly moist cranberry almond cake for holidays lies in two things: using whole milk and not overbaking. I also find that adding a touch of orange zest brightens the flavors beautifully. For the best Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake, test for doneness with a toothpick and remove it from the oven promptly.
Can I make Easy Christmas cranberry almond cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This easy Christmas cranberry almond cake is fantastic for making ahead. You can bake the cake up to two days in advance. Once completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store it at room temperature, and it will remain wonderfully fresh until you’re ready to serve.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake?
To avoid common mistakes with your Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake, ensure your oven temperature is accurate by using an oven thermometer. Secondly, resist the urge to open the oven door frequently, as this can cause the cake to sink. Finally, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the flour, which can lead to a dense texture rather than a light and fluffy one.
Best Ways to Serve Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake
This delightful Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake is truly versatile, making it a perfect cranberry almond dessert for Christmas dinner or any festive gathering. I love serving it in a few different ways, depending on the occasion.
For a simple yet elegant presentation, dust the cooled cake generously with powdered sugar. This adds a beautiful snowy effect that’s instantly festive. A side of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream complements the tart cranberries and sweet almond notes wonderfully.
Another fantastic option is to serve slices with a warm cranberry or orange glaze drizzled over the top. This enhances the fruit flavors and adds extra moisture. This Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake also pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a festive mulled wine for a cozy holiday treat.
Nutrition Facts for Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake
I know many of you like to keep an eye on what you’re eating, especially during the holidays. Here are the estimated nutrition facts per serving for this delicious Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake, based on 8 slices:
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 20 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients, brands, and preparation methods used for your Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake.
How to Store and Reheat Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake
Ensuring your delicious Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake stays fresh is key, especially if you’re making this homemade cranberry almond cake Christmas recipe ahead of time. Proper storage will keep it moist and flavorful for days, or even months!
First, always allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before attempting to store it. Warm cake creates condensation, which can lead to sogginess. Once fully cooled, transfer the cake to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil.
For short-term storage, your Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you’ve made a large batch or want to enjoy it later, this homemade cranberry almond cake Christmas creation freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just wrap individual slices or the whole cake securely in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat, you can warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds until just warm, not hot. Alternatively, place slices on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes for that freshly baked taste.
Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake
What is a Christmas cranberry almond cake?
A Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake is a festive dessert, typically a moist, tender cake flavored with almond extract and studded generously with tart cranberries and crunchy toasted almonds. I find it’s often enjoyed during the holiday season due to its vibrant colors and comforting flavors. It’s a delightful balance of sweet and tart, making it a perfect celebratory treat.
Can I use frozen cranberries for my Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake?
Absolutely! I always recommend using either fresh or frozen cranberries for your Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Just toss them directly into the batter. They might add a minute or two to the baking time, but the result will still be a wonderfully moist cranberry almond cake.
How can I make my Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake gluten-free?
Making a gluten-free Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake is quite simple! I’ve had great success by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture. The baking powder, salt, and other ingredients remain the same, ensuring you still get that delicious festive flavor.
What kind of glaze can I add to my Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake?
For a beautiful finish on your Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake, I love a simple almond glaze. Whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk (or orange juice for extra zest) and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. Drizzle it over the cooled cake for an extra layer of sweetness and almond flavor. It’s a perfect complement to the tart cranberries.
Variations of Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake You Can Try
I love experimenting with recipes, and this Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake is wonderfully adaptable! You can easily tweak it to suit different dietary needs or taste preferences, making it truly your own festive creation.
- For a delicious gluten-free Christmas cranberry almond cake, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. I’ve found that blends containing xanthan gum work best for maintaining the cake’s structure and moisture.
- If you’re looking for a vegan option, try replacing the butter with a plant-based butter alternative, the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg), and the milk with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. This creates a wonderful vegan cranberry almond Christmas cake.
- To add a citrusy twist, increase the orange zest to two tablespoons, or even incorporate a tablespoon of fresh orange juice into the batter for a brighter flavor profile in your Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake.
- Consider turning this into a cranberry almond cake with glaze by adding a simple powdered sugar and almond extract glaze after the cake has cooled. It adds an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal!
Amazing Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake: 1 Secret!
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake offers a delightful balance of tart cranberries and toasted almonds, creating a festive and easy dessert perfect for holiday gatherings. It’s a true holiday showstopper, combining bright flavors with a comforting texture.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 eggs
- 2 teaspoons almond extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup toasted sliced almonds
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 cup powdered sugar (optional, for topping)
- 1/2 cup whole cranberries and almonds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch cake pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until light and fully combined for a tender crumb.
- Beat softened butter with granulated sugar using an electric mixer for about 3 minutes until pale, light, fluffy, and fully aerated.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in milk and almond extract until the batter is smooth and silky.
- Gently fold fresh cranberries, toasted almonds, and orange zest into the batter for pops of vibrant color and nutty crunch, mixing just until evenly distributed.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan; bake for 45–50 minutes until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean, with a slight spring to the touch.
- Allow the Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Dust with powdered sugar and add reserved cranberries and almonds before serving this festive cranberry almond cake.
Notes
- Store leftover Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Wrap the cooled Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy.
- For a warm slice of this cranberry almond dessert, microwave on medium for 15-20 seconds. Alternatively, warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes.
- When making this homemade cranberry almond cake Christmas recipe, use fresh or well-frozen cranberries to ensure bright tartness.
- Lightly toast sliced almonds until golden, but watch closely to avoid bitterness from burning.
- Do not overmix the batter; gently fold in fruit and nuts to keep the cake tender.
- Start testing the Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake doneness with a toothpick around 40 minutes to prevent overbaking.
- Use softened butter and eggs at room temperature for smooth mixing and an even bake of your festive cranberry almond cake.
- Freshly grate orange zest just before mixing to maximize bright, zesty notes in this Christmas Cranberry Almond Cake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
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