Cranberry Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with a light, fluffy cake base. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack, this cake makes any gathering a bit sweeter. I love making this cake during the fall and winter months, when cranberries are at their best. The warm buttery aroma wafting through the house creates such a comforting atmosphere, making it a must-bake for family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe
This Cranberry Coffee Cake is not just another dessert; it’s a standout dish that offers a delicious balance of sweetness and tartness. The quick preparation time makes it easy to whip up on a busy weekday or for unexpected guests. You’ll love how rich it is in flavor, while still being light enough that you don’t feel weighed down after a slice.
"This cake disappeared in minutes at our family gathering, definitely a keeper," says a happy home baker.
It’s also great for special occasions, holiday breakfasts, or simply a delicious treat to enjoy with coffee or tea. The fresh cranberries add a pop of color and flavor that brightens the spirit. Making this cake at home means you can enjoy that homemade warmth and coziness all year round.
How to Make Cranberry Coffee Cake
Creating this wonderful Cranberry Coffee Cake is an easy and enjoyable process. It starts with mixing simple dry ingredients, where the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and a hint of sugar come together. Then, cutting in the cold butter is a fun task; it creates a crumbly texture that will be the base of your cake. Next, add a whisked mixture of egg and milk to the dry ingredients. This will create a moist and rich batter.
Once you’ve mixed everything well, spread the batter evenly into a greased baking dish. The star of this cake, the fresh cranberries, are then sprinkled over the batter, giving it a burst of tart flavor in every bite. To top it off, a simple crumble mixture of flour, sugar, and butter adds a delightful crunch. After baking until golden, the smell of this cake will fill your kitchen and heart with warmth!
Ingredients
To make this marvelous Cranberry Coffee Cake, gather these items:
2 Cups all purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
¾ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon sugar
5 Tablespoons cold butter
1 egg
½ Cup milk
2 ½ Cups fresh cranberries (halved)
¼ Cup all purpose flour
½ Cup sugar
3 Tablespoons butter
You can substitute fresh cranberries with frozen ones if fresh is unavailable. Just be sure to thaw them before adding them to the cake. If you prefer a sweeter option, increasing the sugar in the cake base can complement the tartness of the cranberries nicely.
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375Ëš F. Grease an 8×8 or small rectangular baking pan.
- Mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender until crumbly.
- Whisk together the egg and milk. Add to the dry ingredients and mix until well incorporated. Spread evenly into the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the halved cranberries over the batter base.
- Combine crumble ingredients of flour, sugar, and butter. Sprinkle over the cranberries.
- Bake in a preheated 375Ëš F oven for 30-35 minutes. Serve warm.
How to Serve Cranberry Coffee Cake
This Cranberry Coffee Cake is versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Slicing it warm and pairing it with a cup of hot coffee or tea brings comfort to any morning. For a more indulgent twist, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
You might also consider adding a drizzle of white chocolate or a light glaze on top for some extra sweetness and visual appeal. It even makes a great snack for kids after school – delicious and nutritious!
How to Store
To keep your Cranberry Coffee Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you wish to extend its shelf life, it can also be refrigerated, where it will last for about a week.
For longer storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
Tips to Make
Here are some helpful baking tips to ensure your Cranberry Coffee Cake turns out perfectly every time. Make sure your butter is cold when cutting it into the dry ingredients; this helps create that nice crumbly texture.
Don’t overcrowd the cranberries on top; a scattering rather than a dense layer will yield a better balance of flavors. Also, feel free to experiment with the sugar content based on your sweetness preference. Keeping an eye on the oven towards the end of baking time will help achieve that golden-brown top without overcooking.
Variations
There are several delicious ways to put a spin on your Cranberry Coffee Cake. Try adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and flavor. If you’re in the mood for a different fruit, swapping cranberries for blueberries or raspberries can provide a delightful taste change.
For a seasonal touch, adding some cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter can evoke warmth during the colder months. Gluten-free flour can also be a substitute for those with dietary restrictions, keeping the texture delightful and the taste just as wonderful.
FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use?
Fresh cranberries are preferred for their tart flavor, but frozen cranberries work as well.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cake the night before and bake it fresh in the morning.
Is it necessary to use fresh cranberries?
While fresh cranberries provide the best flavor, frozen can be substituted if needed; just ensure they are thawed.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when it is a golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
For More Recipe Inspiration
If you’re excited about trying new recipes, why not check out our other delightful options? You might enjoy our Cottage Cheese Pizza Crust, or perhaps you’d like to try making a Bento Cake Recipe for a special occasion.
For more inspiration, visit us on Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/quickcakes/
Cranberry Coffee Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8 or small rectangular baking pan.
- Mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender until crumbly.
- Whisk together the egg and milk. Add to the dry ingredients and mix until well incorporated.
- Spread evenly into the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the halved cranberries over the batter base.
- Combine crumble ingredients of flour, sugar, and butter. Sprinkle over the cranberries.
- Bake in a preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.