cranberry coffee cake

cranberry coffee cake

What is cranberry coffee cake? What’s a warm hug on chilly mornings? What is a crowd pleaser at brunch? What’s your favorite coffee cake? The sweetness in the most delightful way. This isn’t just a cake; it’s based on memories. I can still picture my grandma pulling a similar cake, all golden brown and fragrant, from her oven. Every holiday season. What is cranberry coffee cake? Is it a tradition in my own home?

cranberry coffee cake final dish beautifully presented and ready to serve

What is Cranberry Coffee Cake?

What is cranberry coffee cake? What is a good cake base with sour cream? What are some of the best tart cranberries you’ve ever seen? What a delightful What makes this a sweet cake? What makes a coffee cake rustic? What do you enjoy with a cup of coffee? Is it the kind of thing you can whip up on a whim and still feel like you’ve made something special?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I start? What are some of the best reasons to fall head over heels for this cranberry coffee cake? First, the flavor is simply divine. What are the best cranberry flavours? What is simplicity? What are some easy recipes to throw together for a busy weeknight? I’ve actually made it while juggling homework help and dinner prep – trust me, it’s doable! What I love most about this website is that it’s so budget friendly. What are some of the common ingredients in your pantry? Is it super versatile? What’s a great breakfast, if you’re planning on doing brunch at home, or just want to eat it for breakfast? Is it a good dessert to serve vanilla ice cream? If you’re a fan of blueberry muffins, this cranberry coffee cake is the perfect dessert. Right up your alley. Is it cozy? Every bite feels like a warm, comforting hug.

How do you make a Cranberry coffee cake?

Quick Overview

How do you make a cranberry coffee cake? How do you start mixing the batter in a bowl? I’ve used frozen cranberries and fresh raspberries for this recipe. I love them both! What happens when you layer the batter and cranberry mixture in your pan? What is the best part? How do I start a new job in less than an hour?

Ingredients

For the Main Batter: What are some of the
* 1 12 cups all-purpose flour (I sometimes use half whole wheat for a nuttier flavor)
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* ½ teaspoon baking powder
* ½ teaspoon baking soda
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 12 cup sour cream (or Greek Yogurt) – adds a nice tang!
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Filling:
* 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (no need to thaw if frozen)
* ¼ cup granulated sugar
* 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
* 12 teaspoon ground cinnamon (a little nutmeg is also lovely!)

For the Glaze:
* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream (I sometimes use a splash of orange juice for extra zing!) * 1-2 teaspoons cream or milk.
* ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

cranberry coffee cake ingredients organized and measured on kitchen counter

How do I follow step

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch square baking pan. I always line the bottom with parchment paper too, just to make sure it comes out easily. What are some tips for avoiding headaches in the future?

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Make sure everything is well combined – this ensures even baking.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sour cream until smooth and creamy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Is butter soft enough to eat?

Step 4: Combine

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If you overmix the flour, the gluten will be a tough cake. Be careful not to over mix! A few streaks of flour are okay.

Step 5: Prepare Filling

In a small bowl, combine the cranberries, sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Set aside. Toss to coat cranberries evenly. Why do cakes sink to the bottom of the cake?

Step 6: Layer & Swirl

In a large pan, spread half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the cranberry mixture evenly over the batter. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the cranberries. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the batter and cranberry mixture together. Don’t overdo it; use only one side. What are some swirls?

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched. Every oven is different, so start checking it around 30 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. While the cake is cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or orange juice! ), and vanilla extract until smooth. Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. I like to use a spoon for rustic look, but you can also use an elegant piping bag for an upscale look.

Step 9: Slice & Serve

What are some good ways to serve cranberry coffee cake? I love ice cream with whipped cream. I like it with vanilla.

What should I serve it with?

Can you make a cranberry coffee cake? What are some of my favorite pairings?

For Breakfast:A warm slice of cranberry coffee cake alongside a strong cup of black coffee or latte is the perfect pairing. What is the best way to start the day? The tanginess of cranberries complements the richness of coffee beautifully.

For Brunch:What is a good brunch spread? Serve this cake with fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, and some whipped cream. What is a pitcher of mimos What are some of the best ways to add a touch of elegance to your next brunch?

As Dessert:For a simple yet satisfying dessert, serve cranberry coffee cake with whipped cream. Can you make vanilla ice cream with a dollop of whipped cream? The contrasting temperatures and textures create a delightful experience.

For Cozy Snacks:What is a good cake to serve with hot tea or cocoa? What is the best comfort food to eat on the couch? My family makes a big deal out of it when I make it, and it never lasts for more than two years.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Cranberry Coffee Cake

Want to take your cranberry coffee cake to the next level? Here are a few of my top tips:

Cranberry Prep: Whether you’re using fresh or frozen cranberries, make sure to rinse them thoroughly before using. If using fresh cranberries, pick out any that are soft or discolored.

Mixing Advice: Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined, leaving a few streaks of flour if necessary.

Swirl Customization: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different swirling patterns. Use a knife, skewer, or even a chopstick to create your desired effect. Just be careful not to overmix the batter while swirling.

Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute. You can also use different extracts, such as almond or lemon, to add a unique flavor to the cake.

Baking Tips: Keep a close eye on the cake while it’s baking. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil. Use a wooden skewer to check for doneness – it should come out clean when inserted into the center.

Glaze Variations: For a richer glaze, use cream instead of milk. You can also add a splash of lemon or orange juice for extra flavor. If you prefer a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar. I personally like a thinner glaze, so it soaks into the cake a bit.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Want to enjoy your cranberry coffee cake for days to come? Here’s how to store it properly:

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

Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, keep the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Again, make sure it’s wrapped tightly or stored in an airtight container.

Freezer Instructions: This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. 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 until after thawing to add the glaze. This will prevent the glaze from becoming sticky or melting during the thawing process. If you’ve already glazed it and want to freeze it, just wrap it well!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. I recommend using a blend that contains xanthan gum, as this helps to bind the ingredients together and create a texture similar to traditional cake. You might need to experiment with the amount of liquid, as gluten-free flours can sometimes absorb more moisture. Look for a blend that measures 1:1 with regular flour.
Do I need to peel the zucchini?
This recipe doesn’t actually use zucchini, but for recipes that do, you generally don’t need to peel it! The skin is perfectly edible and adds a nice bit of color and texture. However, if you prefer a smoother texture, you can peel it. The skin also contains some nutrients, so leaving it on is a nutritional bonus!
Can I make this as muffins instead?
Absolutely! To make this as muffins, simply fill muffin liners about ¾ full with the batter and cranberry mixture. Reduce the baking time to around 18-22 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye on them, as muffins tend to bake faster than cakes.
How can I adjust the sweetness level?
If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of sugar in both the batter and the cranberry mixture. Start by reducing the sugar in each component by ¼ cup and adjust to taste. You can also use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and texture of the cake slightly.
What can I use instead of the glaze?
If you’re not a fan of glaze, there are plenty of other options! You can simply dust the cake with powdered sugar, or you can make a simple crumb topping by combining flour, sugar, and butter. You could also top it with a streusel before baking. For a lighter option, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Final Thoughts

cranberry coffee cake slice on plate showing perfect texture and swirl pattern

This cranberry coffee cake is truly special. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. What I love most about it is how it brings people together. There’s nothing quite like sharing a slice of warm, homemade cake with loved ones. And if you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other coffee cake variations. I have a delicious blueberry coffee cake and an apple cinnamon coffee cake that are both equally amazing. Happy baking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Feel free to leave a comment below with your own variations and tips. I love hearing from you!

Cranberry Coffee Cake

A moist and delicious cranberry coffee cake, perfect for breakfast or a special occasion. This recipe features a sweet crumb topping and bursts of tart cranberries throughout.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 120 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
  • In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the milk.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  • Fold in the cranberries.
  • Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Let cool completely before serving.

Notes

For a sweeter cake, add 1/4 cup more sugar. You can also use different types of berries if you don't have cranberries.

Nutrition

Serving: 200gCalories: 120kcalCarbohydrates: 120gProtein: 120gFat: 120gSaturated Fat: 120gPolyunsaturated Fat: 120gMonounsaturated Fat: 120gTrans Fat: 120gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 120gSugar: 120gVitamin A: 120IUVitamin C: 120mgCalcium: 120mgIron: 120mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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