There’s nothing quite like a Cranberry Christmas Cake to bring warmth and festivity to your holiday gatherings. This easy-to-make, buttery cake is packed with fresh, tart cranberries and develops a perfect golden crust without frosting!
Unlike traditional cakes, this recipe does not use baking powder or baking soda. Instead, the texture is achieved by beating eggs and sugar together for several minutes, creating a light yet dense crumb. This technique is explained in detail by King Arthur Baking, where they discuss how aerating eggs can replace chemical leavening agents.
If you’re concerned about cakes sticking to the pan, following Serious Eats’ cake pan greasing guide guarantees a smooth release every time. Now, let’s dive into this festive and delicious cake recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive and beautiful – The vibrant red cranberries make it a perfect holiday centrepiece.
- Simple ingredients – Made with just a handful of basic pantry staples.
- Crisp, golden crust – This cake develops a perfectly crunchy top contrasting beautifully with the soft inside.
- Great for make-ahead baking – Stays moist and delicious for days.
Ingredients for Cranberry Christmas Cake
Below is a breakdown of everything you need to make the perfect holiday cake.
Cake Ingredients
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | Provides structure and stability. |
| Eggs | Acts as a natural leavening agent. |
| Granulated Sugar | Balances tartness of cranberries. |
| Butter | Adds richness and a soft texture. |
| Vanilla Extract | Enhances the overall flavor. |
| Fresh Cranberries | Provides bursts of tart flavour. |
Optional Add-Ins
- Orange Zest – For a citrus twist.
- Chopped Pecan or Walnuts – Adds crunch and nutty depth.
- Almond Extract – A unique alternative to vanilla.
If you love holiday-inspired desserts, check out Applesauce Crumb Cake, another warm and spiced treat that pairs beautifully with coffee!
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Cranberry Christmas Cake
1. Preparing the Cake Pan (Prevent Sticking!)
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan using butter or a non-stick spray for easy cake release.
- Lightly dust with flour for easy cake release.
- Need extra help? Check out these cake pan greasing tips.
2. Beating the Eggs & Sugar (Essential for Texture!)
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 3 eggs and 2 cups of sugar for 5-7 minutes.
- The mixture should become pale, thick, and double in volume.
- This step replaces baking powder/soda, so don’t rush it!
3. Adding Butter & Vanilla
- Melt ¾ cup butter, then let it cool slightly.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and stir for another minute.
4. Folding in the Flour & Cranberries
- Gently fold in 2 cups flour until just combined—do not overmix.
- Stir in 12 oz of fresh cranberries, ensuring even distribution.
5. Baking the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing.
Storage & Keeping It Fresh
Since this cake has a naturally crisp crust, proper storage is key.
- Room Temperature: Store loosely covered for 2-3 days.
- Refrigeration: Keeps fresh for up to 5 days, though the crust may soften.
- To keep the slices fresh, tightly wrap each one in plastic wrap and then add a layer of foil for extra protection in the freezer.
Want another festive bundt cake? Try Red Velvet Bundt Cake for a stunning holiday dessert!
Common Baking Mistakes & How to Fix Them
1. Why Did My Cake Turn Out Dense?
- The eggs weren’t beaten long enough.
- The flour was overmixed, causing gluten development.
2. Why Did My Cranberries Sink?
- Solution: Lightly coat the cranberries in flour before folding them in.
3. Why Is My Cake Too Dry?
- Overbaked—check for doneness at 40 minutes.
- Too much flour—always measure accurately.
Cranberry Christmas Cake Variations
1. Cranberry Orange Cake
- Add zest of 1 orange and 2 tbsp orange juice for a citrus twist.
2. Cranberry Almond Cake
- Swap vanilla extract for an almond extract for a nutty depth of flavour.
3. Gluten-Free Cranberry Cake
- Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
Want individual-sized treats? Try The Best Crumb Cake Muffins perfect for grab-and-go snacking!
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Christmas Cake is a holiday must-have with a balance of sweet, tart, and buttery goodness. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas dinner, gifting baked goods, or enjoying a cozy winter treat, this cake is a perfect choice!
Looking for more holiday recipes? Try:
✅ Baked Feta Eggs A cozy breakfast idea!
✅ Cheesy Loaded Meatloaf Casserole A hearty winter dinner option.
Now it’s your turn—bake this delicious cake and let me know how it turns out! 🎄😊