Cranberry Crumb Cake
Why Make This Recipe
Cranberry crumb cake is a delightful treat that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with a sweet, crumbly topping. This cake is perfect for any occasion, be it a cozy family breakfast, a coffee morning with friends, or even a dessert for special gatherings. It is easy to make and can brighten up anyone’s day with its vibrant color and flavors.
Cranberries are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants, making this cake a slightly healthier choice compared to other desserts. The combination of the sweet cake paired with the tangy cranberries creates a perfect balance that appeals to many. Additionally, this recipe allows for some flexibility – you can add your favorite nuts, spices, or even a splash of orange zest for extra flavor.
Making cranberry crumb cake is also a fantastic way to use fresh cranberries when they are in season. This cake is especially popular during the fall and winter months when cranberries are abundant. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe is simple, rewarding, and can quickly become a family favorite.
How to Make Cranberry Crumb Cake
Creating cranberry crumb cake is a straightforward process that requires just a few steps. Below, you will find the ingredients and the detailed directions to make this delicious cake.
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
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan so the cake will easily come out once it’s done.
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Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of softened butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of brown sugar. Using a mixer or a whisk, beat these ingredients together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential as it helps to incorporate air into the batter, leading to a light texture.
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Add Eggs and Vanilla: Next, crack 2 large eggs into the bowl, adding one at a time. Mix well after each addition to ensure everything is well combined. Now add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and stir to combine.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: Take another bowl and whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisking the dry ingredients together first helps to distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Alternate mixing in the dry ingredients with a splash of milk, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to a denser cake.
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Add Cranberries: Gently fold in the fresh cranberries using a spatula. The folding technique helps to keep the batter light and ensures the cranberries are evenly distributed without crushing them.
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Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula if necessary. For the sweet topping, combine 1/2 cup of brown sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon in a small bowl and sprinkle this mixture generously over the cake batter. This will create a lovely crumbly layer on top.
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Bake the Cake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. To test if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the toothpick has wet batter on it, continue baking for a few more minutes.
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Prepare the Glaze: While the cake is baking, you can prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of milk. Stir until smooth. Adjust the amount of milk to achieve your desired consistency.
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Cool and Glaze: Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, gently remove the cake from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack. When the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top and allow it to set.
How to Serve Cranberry Crumb Cake
Cranberry crumb cake is best served at room temperature. Cut it into slices and present it on a beautiful serving platter. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect choice for morning gatherings.
For a festive touch, you can serve the cake with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top just before serving can give it an elegant finish. You could also serve it alongside fresh berries for a refreshing addition.
If you are planning for guests, consider preparing the cake a day ahead. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, and it will be ready to serve when your guests arrive.
How to Store Cranberry Crumb Cake
To maintain the freshness of your cranberry crumb cake, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This cake can last for up to three days. If you want to keep it fresh for longer, consider refrigerating it. It will stay good in the fridge for about five to seven days.
Make sure to cover it well or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing Options
If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. The cake can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy the cake, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight when you are ready to eat it.
Tips to Make Cranberry Crumb Cake
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Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: While fresh cranberries are preferred, you can use frozen ones if needed. Do not thaw them before use, as this will help them keep their shape more effectively during baking.
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Adjusting Sweetness: If you find cranberries too tart for your taste, you can increase the amount of granulated sugar slightly. Taste the batter before baking if you are unsure.
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Experimenting with Flavors: Feel free to spice up your cake by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. A bit of orange or lemon zest can also enhance the flavor and complement the cranberries well.
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Keeping Texture Light: Be cautious while mixing your batter. Over-mixing can result in a tough crumb, so mix until just combined.
Variation
While the traditional cranberry crumb cake is delightful on its own, you can make a few variations to suit your taste:
- Nutty Cranberry Cake: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for extra crunch.
- Cinnamon Swirl: Before pouring the batter into the pan, take half of it and mix with a teaspoon of cinnamon, creating a swirl effect when combined with the rest of the batter.
- Coconut Delight: Mix in some shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Cheese Layer: Introducing a cheesecake layer by adding cream cheese mixed with sugar and an egg into the batter can provide a satisfying texture contrast.
FAQs
1. Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use dried cranberries, but they will result in a different texture and flavor. Soak them in warm water for about 10-15 minutes to rehydrate them before folding them into the batter.
2. Is it necessary to glaze the cake?
The glaze adds a nice sweetness and enhances the cake’s appeal, but it’s not mandatory. You can enjoy the cake as is or make a simple dusting of powdered sugar instead.
3. Can I add other fruits in addition to cranberries?
Absolutely! You can mix in other berries or fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples. Just make sure not to overload the batter with too much fruit to maintain the right texture.
4. What can I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
A sinking cake can be caused by over-mixing the batter, not enough flour, or opening the oven door too soon. To prevent this, ensure that you gently mix the ingredients and avoid opening the oven door during the baking process until it’s close to the recommended baking time.
5. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be baked a day in advance. Store it at room temperature covered in plastic wrap. The flavors will develop more as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
With these tips and details, you’re ready to create a delicious cranberry crumb cake that can be enjoyed by family and friends. Happy baking!
