Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe

Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the joy of a moist, fluffy cake. I stumbled upon this recipe during a cozy winter weekend, and it quickly became a staple in my home, especially during the holidays. This cake is perfect for sharing—a lovely centerpiece for brunches or an indulgent afternoon snack with coffee. Its vibrant colors and aromatic flavors make it both a feast for the eyes and a warm hug for the taste buds.

What Makes This Recipe Special

Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is not just another dessert; it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors that transcends a typical coffee cake. Whether you’re planning a festive gathering, a holiday brunch, or simply a cozy afternoon treat, this cake fits perfectly into every occasion. It’s quick to prepare and budget-friendly, making it accessible for busy bakers. Plus, who can resist that beautiful blend of tart cranberries and sweet cream cheese frosting?

"This coffee cake is a game-changer! It’s so moist and the cranberries add the perfect zing. I made it for brunch, and it was gone in minutes!" – A happy home baker

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is easier than you might think! This recipe walks you through a straightforward process that results in a gorgeous cake ready for any occasion. You’ll combine the dry and wet ingredients, fold in the cranberries, and bake until golden brown. If you’re ever worried about time, this recipe can even be a last-minute addition to your holiday spread!

Gather Your Ingredients

To create this delicious Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup buttermilk (you can substitute with milk and vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries
  • (Optional) Cream cheese frosting for drizzling

Ingredient Notes

  • If you’re out of buttermilk, mix regular milk with a splash of vinegar to create a quick substitute.
  • You can use dried cranberries for a different texture, but fresh adds that delicious burst of flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
  5. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk.
  7. Gently fold in the cranberries until just combined.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
  9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  10. Allow the cake to cool before drizzling with cream cheese frosting if desired.

Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe

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Tips for Serving

This Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is best enjoyed fresh, but it also makes a stunning centerpiece when served alongside a hot pot of coffee or tea. Consider pairing it with simple accompaniments, such as:

  • Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a festive dessert
  • A sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance
  • Fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake fresh:

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • For prolonged storage, place it in the fridge where it will last about a week.
  • You can also freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy!

Expert Advice

  1. Don’t overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
  2. Fresh cranberries are key: If you’re using frozen cranberries, don’t thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture.
  3. Bake properly: Be sure to check your cake with a toothpick to avoid overbaking, which can dry out the cake.

Creative Twists

Feel free to make this recipe your own! Here are some variations you can try:

  • Add zest: Incorporate some orange zest for an additional citrus flavor.
  • Nutty addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
  • Spice it up: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can bring warmth to your cake.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare?

The preparation time is about 15-20 minutes, and the baking takes 30-35 minutes, making this an easy recipe to fit into your schedule.

Can I substitute the cranberries?

Yes! You can use dried cranberries or even blueberries for a different flavor profile; however, the baking time may vary slightly.

Is this coffee cake safe to freeze?

Absolutely! Wrap it well and store in the freezer. Just make sure to let it cool completely before you freeze it to maintain texture.

Explore this recipe, tweak it with your special touch, and enjoy every bite of your Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake! Whether it’s a sweet gathering or a peaceful moment with a good book, this cake is sure to brighten your day.

Print
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Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake


  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A delightful cake combining tart cranberries with a moist, fluffy base, perfect for brunch or afternoon snacks.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup buttermilk (or milk with vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries
  • Optional: Cream cheese frosting for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
  5. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk.
  7. Gently fold in the cranberries until just combined.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
  9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  10. Allow the cake to cool before drizzling with cream cheese frosting, if desired.

Notes

Serve fresh and enjoy with coffee or tea. Store leftovers tightly in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature, or refrigerate for about a week.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: cranberry cake, coffee cake, dessert, holiday baking, festive recipes

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