Get ready to indulge in a festive delight that will make your holiday gatherings unforgettable! Our Cranberry Christmas Cake with Butter Sauce is a mouthwatering treat that perfectly balances the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of a rich, buttery sauce. This cake is not just a dessert; it's a celebration on a plate, sure to impress your family and friends. With its vibrant color and delicious flavor, it’s the perfect centerpiece for any holiday table. Ready to bring some joy to your kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of fresh cranberries and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Stir well and set aside for about 10 minutes. This will allow the cranberries to release some of their juices and become slightly sweetened.
- In another large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- Gently fold in the cranberries and any juices that have accumulated in the bowl. This will ensure that the cranberries are evenly distributed throughout the cake batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the butter sauce. In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, add 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Once the cake has cooled, slice it into wedges and serve warm with the butter sauce drizzled over the top. Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Christmas Cake with Butter Sauce!
Tips
- Use Fresh Cranberries: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh cranberries. If you can’t find them, frozen cranberries can work in a pinch, but make sure to thaw and drain them first.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to cut.
- Make it a Little Extra: For an added touch, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or some whipped cream alongside the butter sauce for an elegant presentation.
- Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently before serving for the best taste.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spice flavor that complements the cranberries beautifully.Enjoy your baking adventure with this delightful recipe!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 85mg
