Cranberry Christmas Cake is a delightful and festive dessert that’s perfect for the holiday season. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, toss the cranberries with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. If you’re using nuts, mix them in as well. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the sugared cranberries (and nuts, if using).
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes, then drizzle the glaze over the warm cake.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.
This Cranberry Christmas Cake is not only delicious but also adds a festive touch to your holiday table. Enjoy!