Introduction
The Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of the holiday season. With its rich flavor, moist texture, and bursts of tart cranberries, this pound cake is perfect for festive gatherings or as a special dessert to enjoy with family and friends. This recipe combines classic pound cake elements with seasonal ingredients to create a deliciously unique experience.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cups granulated sugar
– 6 large eggs
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups fresh cranberries, halved
– ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Prep Time
The preparation time for this delightful cake is about 20 minutes, allowing you to quickly mix and prepare the ingredients before baking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, resulting in a perfectly baked cake. Including prep time, the total time comes to roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes. This recipe yields a delicious 10 to 12 servings, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings and festive celebrations.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preparation of the Baking Pan
Prepare a loaf pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper for easy removal of the cake.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Incorporating Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time into the butter and sugar mixture, ensuring that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Adding Vanilla and Milk
Stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the milk, mixing until the batter is smooth.
Combining Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Incorporating Cranberries
Fold in the fresh cranberries gently into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooling the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Glaze (optional)
If desired, mix powdered sugar with a little milk to create a glaze and drizzle it over the cooled pound cake for added sweetness.
Notes
Storage Instructions
Store the cranberry pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Substituting Ingredients
You can substitute fresh cranberries with frozen ones, but make sure to thaw them first and drain excess moisture.
Flavor Variations
Consider adding orange zest to the batter for a citrusy flavor enhancement.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs well with whipped cream or a side of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Cook techniques
Mixing the Batter
Combining wet and dry ingredients properly ensures a light and fluffy cake. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
Incorporating Cranberries
Add cranberries gently into the batter to avoid crushing them. This keeps the berries intact, which contributes to the cake’s texture and flavor.
Baking the Cake
Preheat the oven to the specified temperature and place the cake in the center. This helps achieve an even bake.
Testing for Doneness
Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, the cake is done.
Cooling Properly
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps prevent it from becoming soggy.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used. Just make sure to adjust the baking time as necessary since they may hold more moisture.
How can I store the cranberry pound cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I substitute other fruits for cranberries?
Yes, you can try using other fruits like blueberries or chopped apples, but it may alter the flavor and texture of the cake.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking, but ensure it’s a 1:1 ratio for best results.
What can I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
A sinking cake could be a result of underbaking, using too much leavening agent, or opening the oven door too early. Adjust baking time and temperature accordingly.
Conclusion
Indulging in a Christmas cranberry pound cake is a delightful way to capture the festive spirit. The combination of tart cranberries and a moist cake creates a harmonious balance of flavors that is sure to impress your holiday guests. Whether served as a dessert or enjoyed with a cup of tea, this pound cake is a perfect addition to your seasonal celebrations.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cranberry Orange Bread
Enhance your holiday table with a delicious cranberry orange bread. The zesty flavor of fresh oranges complements the tartness of cranberries beautifully, making it a refreshing alternative to traditional pound cakes.
Cranberry Walnut Muffins
For a portable treat, consider baking cranberry walnut muffins. These muffins are perfect for breakfast or as a snack and provide a lovely crunch with the addition of walnuts, paired with the sweetness of cranberries.
Cranberry Cheesecake Bars
For those who love creamy desserts, cranberry cheesecake bars are an excellent option. The rich cream cheese filling combined with a layer of cranberry sauce creates a decadent treat that can be served during the holidays.
Cranberry Almond Biscotti
Try cranberry almond biscotti for a delightful pairing with coffee or tea. The crunchy texture and nutty flavor combine wonderfully with dried cranberries, making them a perfect holiday snack.
Cranberry Lemonade
For a refreshing drink, whip up a cranberry lemonade. This tart and sweet beverage is perfect for holiday gatherings, providing a vibrant and festive drink option for your guests.
