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A Family Favorite

As the holidays draw near, my kitchen comes alive with the sweet and tangy aroma of cranberries. Late fall is cranberry season, and it’s the perfect time to stock up. I often find them for less than a dollar a bag at my local Aldi, so I always make sure to grab plenty for my favorite recipes. One treat I can’t go without is Cranberry Christmas Cake. It’s a cherished tradition in my family, and they insist I bring it to every holiday gathering. The combination of almond flavor and tart cranberries baked into a fluffy, moist cake with a perfectly crisp crust is simply magical.

Of course, this cake is just one of the cranberry delights I make each year. If you love cranberries as much as I do, you’ll also enjoy my Cranberry Orange Scones and Honey Fermented Cranberries—both are perfect additions to any winter table.

Now, let me share how to make this festive favorite!

Ingredients

3 large eggs (room temperature)
2 cups sugar
3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
2 tsp almond extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
12 oz fresh cranberries (or frozen)
Powdered sugar for garnish

Directions

Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray.
Create Egg and Sugar Peaks
In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is pale, thickened, and forms soft peaks. This step is crucial—it’s the magic that gives the cake its rise and airy texture!
Blend in Wet Ingredients
Add the softened butter, almond extract, and vanilla extract to the egg mixture. Continue mixing until everything is smooth and well-combined, about two minutes.
Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add the flour to the wet mixture. Stir just until the ingredients are combined; overmixing isn’t necessary.
Add the Cranberries
Gently fold in the cranberries using a silicone spatula. Don’t worry if the dough seems thick—it’s supposed to be! Spread the dough evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing the top as needed.
Bake to Perfection
Bake at 350°F for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Garnish
Let the cake cool completely before slicing. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a festive finish.

The Secret of Eggs and Sugar Peaks

This step deserves its own spotlight. Beating the eggs and sugar until they form soft peaks is what transforms this simple batter into an airy, fluffy cake. The peaks help the cranberry Christmas cake rise beautifully without needing any additional leavening agents. So, don’t rush this part—it’s worth every minute!

Tips for Cranberry Success

Yes, you can use fresh or frozen cranberries for this recipe, and I always keep a stash in my freezer. You can toss them in frozen or thaw them first—it doesn’t make a difference in the final result. The thick dough might seem unusual at first, but trust me, it’s just how you want it. Spread it into your pan with a silicone spatula, and once baked, it magically transforms into the fluffiest cake with a delicate crispy crust.

Variations and Customizations

This Cranberry Christmas Cake is already a showstopper, but if you’re feeling adventurous, there are a few fun tweaks you can make!

Substitute Almond Extract with Vanilla
If almond extract isn’t your thing, you can swap it out for vanilla extract for a milder, more classic flavor. Personally, I can’t imagine skipping the almond—it’s what makes this cake so special!—but vanilla is a lovely alternative.
Add White Chocolate Chips
For a touch of extra sweetness, try mixing in white chocolate chips. The creamy sweetness pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries and gives the cake a decadent twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Cranberry Christmas Cake is delightful on its own, but pairing it with something extra can elevate it into an unforgettable holiday treat.

Top with Whipped Cream or Ice Cream
A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the tart cranberries and crispy crust. It’s like a little piece of holiday heaven!
Pair with Chai Tea or Spiced Cider
Serve a slice alongside a warm cup of Homemade Chai Tea or Spiced Cider to complete the cozy holiday vibes. Both drinks highlight the warm, comforting flavors of the season and complement the cake perfectly.

Storage Tips

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to keep your Cranberry Christmas Cake fresh:

Short-Term Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the whole cake or individual slices. To freeze the entire cake, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn. For individual slices, wrap each slice in plastic wrap and store them together in a freezer-safe container. The cake will stay fresh for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the oven.

Troubleshooting Tips

Even the best bakers can run into a hiccup now and then. Here are a few tips to ensure your cranberry Christmas cake turns out perfectly every time.

Cake Didn’t Rise Well
Be sure to beat the eggs and sugar until thick and pale, forming soft peaks. This step creates the structure needed for the cake to rise. Skipping or rushing this step can leave your cake flat.
Avoid Overbaking or Underbaking
Keep a close eye on the baking time! Check the cake at 40 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. Overbaking can make the cake dry, while underbaking leaves it gummy.

A Holiday Tradition Worth Sharing

This Cranberry Christmas Cake is more than a dessert; it’s a symbol of the season in my home. The almond flavor paired with the tart cranberries creates a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Whether you’re bringing it to a family party or enjoying it with a cup of tea, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a cherished tradition in your home too.

For more holiday inspiration, don’t forget to check out my Cranberry Orange Scones and Honey Fermented Cranberries.

Here’s to celebrating the season with homemade goodness!