Name: Cranberry Apple Buttermilk Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 0.5 tsp salt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 0.5 cup packed brown sugar; 1 cup buttermilk; 0.5 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup cranberries; 1 cup chopped apples

What is a recipe that changed my life? Cranberry Apple Buttermilk Cake. If you’re a fan of apple pie but sometimes crave something lighter, maybe even slightly sweeter, then go for it. Is this your new best friend? What is the taste of cranberries? What is the tartness that just brightens everything up? Why is buttermilk so good for cake? I swear, it melts in your mouth.

What is Cranberry Apple Buttermilk Cake?

Think of it as a rustic, cozy hug in cake form. Is this a single layer cake? What is a buttermilk cake? Does the name really say it all? No fancy frosting or complicated layers here, just pure, honest-to-goodness goodness. What’s a good snack for brunch? What’s the kind of cake that feels like it has been passed down through generations, even if you just eat it. I discovered it yesterday. To me, it’s home.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Let’s get down to brass tacks. Alright, let us get to the Why should I make Cranberry Apple Buttermilk Cake? What are some of the best flavor combinations? The apples become soft and caramelized, their sweetness perfectly balanced by the tart cranberries. The buttermilk adds a subtle tang that keeps everything from being too heavy, and the spices add an interesting zing. What are the usual suspects of cinnamon and nutmeg?

What makes this cake so easy to make? Do you need fancy equipment or complicated techniques? What is the best way to bake a cake? Is it so simple that it’s almost foolproof? I’ve had total baking novices tell me they nailed it on their first try.

Let’s not forget about the cost. Is cranberry and apple cheap? Buttermilk is a budget-friendly ingredient, and the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples. How do I make a delicious cake without breaking the bank?

What I love about this cake is its versatility. Can you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert? Coffee for breakfast. What are some good potluck recipes to make with your friends? Plus, you can easily customize it to your liking. Add some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, or swap out cranberries for other berries. What are some easy recipes to make your own? Compared to say, a fussy cheesecake, this is my go to when I need something impressive and easy!

How do I make Cranberry Apple Buttermilk Cake?

Quick Overview

What is the best way to make Cranberry Apple Buttermilk Cake? Basically, you’ll whisk together your dry ingredients, then combine your wet ingredients. Mix them gently, fold in the apples and cranberries, and bake. The best part? The buttermilk keeps the cake incredibly moist, and the cranberries add a burst of tartness that makes it so good. What is the best balance between sweetness and sweetness? Is this a cake that can be made in under an hour?

Ingredients

For the Main Batter: Why?
* 2 cups all-purpose flour (I prefer unbleached, but either works!
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of water. Is it safe to add lemon juice or white vinegar to a measuring cup, then filling the rest with milk to equal 1 cup? Let it sit for 5 minutes before using!
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:
* 2 medium apples, peeled, cored and chopped (I like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, but any firm apple can be used).
* 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (if using frozen, don’t thaw them!)
* 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For the Glaze:
* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 2-3 tablespoons of milk or buttermilk (add more milk for a thinner consistency)
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

What are the steps to

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. Is it possible to line the bottom of a dish with parchment paper? I always do this even if the pan is nonstick, it’s just extra insurance!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Make sure everything is well combined, so there aren’t any pockets of baking powder or baking soda. How do I make a cake that rises evenly?

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Set aside. Why is buttermilk curdled? Just make sure the butter isn’t too hot, or it might cook the eggs.

Step 4: Combine

How do you mix wet and dry ingredients? Do not overmix, as this can result in a tough cake. A few lumps are okay!

Step 5: Prepare Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the chopped apples, cranberries, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well. How does flour absorb the moisture from apples and cranberries? How do I stop my feet from becoming

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

How do you pour half of the batter into a cake pan? Sprinkle half of the apple-cranberry mixture over the batter. What is the best way to spread the batter over apples and cranberries? What’s the recipe for apples and cran How do you create a swirl effect with your knife?

Step 7: Bake

I baked for 45-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Is it safe to start checking for doneness around 45 minutes?

Step 8: Cool & Glaze

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once the cake is cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or buttermilk, and vanilla extract. How do you make a glaze? How do you pour the glaze over a cake?

Step 9: Slice & Serve

What are some of the best recipes for Cranberry Apple Buttermilk Cake? I love a big slice of bread with ice cold coffee. Is it good to serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream?

What should I serve it with?

What are some good reasons to make Cranberry Apple Buttermilk Cake? What are some ideas to elevate it?

For Breakfast:Serve warm alongside a cup of coffee or latte. The sweetness of the cake pairs perfectly with the bitterness of coffee. What are some good Side Dishes to serve with Greek yogurt?

For Brunch: Make it part of a beautiful brunch spread with fresh fruit, eggs, and bacon. Cut the cake into smaller squares for easy serving. A mimosa or sparkling cider would be a lovely accompaniment.

As Dessert: Warm a slice and top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped nuts adds a touch of elegance. Serve with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of herbal tea.

For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy a slice with a cup of hot tea or cocoa on a chilly evening. It’s the perfect comfort food. My family always snags pieces right out of the fridge for a late night snack.

Growing up, my grandma always served this cake with a side of her homemade apple butter. It’s a family tradition that I still cherish today.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cranberry Apple Buttermilk Cake

Alright, let’s dive into some insider tips to make your Cranberry Apple Buttermilk Cake absolutely perfect!

Apple Prep: I always opt for firm apples that hold their shape during baking, like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith. But don’t be afraid to experiment! I’ve even used a mix of different apples for a more complex flavor. Also, make sure to chop the apples into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.

Mixing Advice: The key to a tender cake is to avoid overmixing the batter. Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. A few lumps are okay! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Seriously, gently is the key here.

Swirl Customization: While I usually just sprinkle the apple-cranberry mixture on top, you can get creative with the swirling. Use a knife or skewer to create patterns in the batter after you’ve added the fruit. This not only looks pretty but also helps distribute the fruit evenly throughout the cake.

Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can use regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar added. Let it sit for a few minutes to curdle. For a vegan version, use a plant-based milk alternative and a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). I’ve even used almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!

Baking Tips: Keep an eye on your cake while it’s baking. Ovens can vary, so it might need more or less time. A wooden skewer inserted into the center should come out clean when it’s done. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil.

Glaze Variations: The glaze is totally optional, but it adds a nice touch of sweetness and shine. You can customize the flavor by adding a splash of lemon juice, orange zest, or even a pinch of cinnamon to the glaze. For a thicker glaze, use less milk. For a thinner glaze, use more. I sometimes add a little maple syrup!

I remember one time I accidentally added too much baking soda to the batter, and the cake ended up tasting a little soapy. Lesson learned: always measure your ingredients carefully!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Want to keep your Cranberry Apple Buttermilk Cake fresh and delicious? Here’s how:

Room Temperature: You can store the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. Again, make sure it’s well-covered to prevent it from absorbing odors from the fridge.

Freezer Instructions: To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you plan to freeze the cake, it’s best to wait to glaze it until after it’s thawed. The glaze can become sticky or runny during the freezing and thawing process.

I usually slice the cake before freezing it, so I can easily grab a piece whenever I want a sweet treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. I recommend using a blend that contains xanthan gum, as it helps to bind the ingredients together and create a similar texture to regular flour. You may need to add a little extra liquid to the batter, as gluten-free flours tend to be drier. Start with an extra tablespoon of milk or buttermilk and add more as needed until the batter is the right consistency.

Do I need to peel the apples?

That’s totally up to you! I usually peel them because I prefer the smoother texture in the cake. But if you don’t mind the texture of the apple peel, you can leave it on. Just make sure to wash the apples thoroughly before chopping them. Leaving the peel on also adds a bit of extra fiber and nutrients to the cake.

Can I make this as muffins instead?

Absolutely! To make muffins, line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well. Fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full with batter. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the batter. Start by reducing it by 1/4 cup and see if that’s sweet enough for you. You can also use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar. Just keep in mind that these sweeteners can add a slightly different flavor to the cake.

What can I use instead of the glaze?

If you’re not a fan of glaze, you can dust the cake with powdered sugar instead. Or, you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped nuts would also be delicious. You can leave it plain too, honestly!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my beloved Cranberry Apple Buttermilk Cake Recipe! I truly hope you give it a try. It’s the kind of cake that’s perfect for any occasion, from a cozy breakfast to a festive holiday gathering. What I love most is that this cake is simple to make yet delivers incredible flavor. That tart cranberry paired with sweet apple and that moist buttermilk crumb is a flavor profile that’s hard to beat!

If you’re looking for more easy and delicious cake recipes, be sure to check out my other posts. And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how your Cranberry Apple Buttermilk Cake turns out! I’d love to hear your thoughts and any variations you might try. Happy baking!