Cranberry Crumb Cake

Why Make This Recipe

Cranberry Crumb Cake stands out as a delightful treat for many reasons. Firstly, it combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of a moist cake, creating a perfect balance of flavors. This cake is not only delicious but also aesthetically pleasing, with bursts of red cranberries that make it visually appealing. It’s perfect for any occasion—from holiday gatherings to casual afternoon tea.

Secondly, making this cake at home is straightforward. Even those new to baking can find joy in creating a dessert that impresses friends and family. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy the process of baking and the satisfaction of serving something made from scratch.

Additionally, this cake is versatile. You can serve it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert. Everyone will appreciate the warm, cozy vibes of a freshly baked Cranberry Crumb Cake. It’s a comforting choice during the colder months, but it’s enjoyable at any time of year. Decked out with a light glaze, it becomes a sweet addition to your dessert table or even a festive holiday centerpiece.

How to Make Cranberry Crumb Cake

Creating a Cranberry Crumb Cake is a rewarding experience. Follow these steps to bring this beautiful and tasty cake to life.

Ingredients

To make this scrumptious cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)

Directions

Now, let’s dive into the steps to make this treat:

1. Preheat your oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the batter: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and both types of sugar (granulated and brown) until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.

3. Add the eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs to the mixture one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until everything is combined.

4. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the baking powder and soda are evenly distributed in the flour.

5. Combine the mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with a splash of milk, until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

6. Fold in the cranberries: Gently fold in the fresh cranberries. You want to distribute them throughout the batter without breaking them up too much.

7. Prepare the cake for baking: Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the batter.

8. Bake the cake: Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your cake is ready!

9. Let it cool: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Prepare the glaze: While the cake is cooling, you can prepare the glaze. In a bowl, mix together powdered sugar and milk until you achieve a smooth consistency. Adjust the amount of milk to get your preferred thickness.

11. Glaze the cake: Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Allow it to set for a few moments before slicing it into pieces and serving.

How to Serve Cranberry Crumb Cake

Cranberry Crumb Cake can be served in various delightful manners. Here are a few suggestions to bring out its best:

• Warm or Room Temperature: You can serve this cake warm, right after it’s been glazed, or at room temperature. Both options taste fantastic, and they allow the flavors of cranberries and cinnamon to shine.

• Accompaniments: Consider serving slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. The coolness of the cream or ice cream will complement the warm cake beautifully.

• Coffee or Tea Pairing: This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. It makes for a fantastic afternoon treat or a cozy breakfast option.

• Garnish: For a festive touch, add fresh cranberries or a few mint leaves on top of the glazed cake before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your presentation.

How to Store Cranberry Crumb Cake

If you end up with leftover cake, storing it properly will ensure it stays fresh. Here are some storage tips:

• At Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cake within a couple of days, simply cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

• Refrigeration: If you want it to last a bit longer, you can refrigerate the cake. Just be sure to wrap it well or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

• Freezing: For even longer storage, freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Tips to Make Cranberry Crumb Cake

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Cranberry Crumb Cake comes out perfectly every time:

• Use Fresh Cranberries: Using fresh cranberries is key to achieving the best flavor and texture. If you cannot find fresh cranberries, you can use frozen, but be sure not to thaw them before mixing into the batter.

• Check the Eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the batter emulsify better, leading to a fluffier cake.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

• Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cake, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar or glaze. The cranberries add a natural tartness that balances sweetness well.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding nutmeg or ginger can add a warm flavor that complements the cranberries.

Variation

There are several variations of the Cranberry Crumb Cake to try if you want to switch things up:

• Nutty Addition: You can add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch and flavor.

• Amenity: Try adding orange zest for a citrus boost that pairs wonderfully with cranberries.

• Swapping Berries: Instead of cranberries, you can use blueberries or raspberries for a different berry crumb cake.

• Chocolate Drizzle: For a more indulgent dessert, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cake instead of glaze.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. Just make sure not to thaw them before adding them to the batter. They may add a little extra moisture, but they’ll still work beautifully in the cake.

How can I tell when the cake is done?

You can check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. Keep an eye on the edges; they should pull away from the sides of the pan slightly when the cake is done.

Can I make the glaze in advance?

Yes, you can make the glaze in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it. Just give it a good mix before drizzling it over the cake to ensure it’s smooth.

How long will the cake last?

At room temperature, the cake will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. In the refrigerator, it can last a week. If you freeze it, it can last up to three months.

Can I add more sugar to the recipe?

Yes, if you prefer a sweeter cake, you can increase the amount of sugar slightly. Just keep in mind that cranberries have a tart flavor, which helps balance out the sweetness.

Enjoy your baking experience and the delightful taste of Cranberry Crumb Cake! This recipe not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also brings joy to gatherings and shared moments with loved ones.

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