Embrace the festive cheer with a slice of Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake, a delightful treat that pairs the tangy zest of fresh cranberries with the sweet citrus of orange. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a festive centerpiece that brightens up your holiday table with its vibrant flavors and merry appearance. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this pound cake promises to bring joy and warmth to your festive celebrations.
A Festive Delight with Every Bite
This Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake recipe captures the essence of the holidays through its use of seasonal cranberries and aromatic orange zest. Its rich, buttery texture and the bright bursts of cranberry make each slice a perfect balance of sweet and tart.
Pro Tips for a Perfect Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake
- Optimal Freshness: Use fresh cranberries for a burst of tartness that complements the sweet cake.
- Zesty Flavor: Maximize the orange flavor by using the zest from a freshly washed orange.
- Smooth Glaze: Ensure your glaze is lump-free by sifting the powdered sugar before mixing.
Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake Recipe:
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 70 minutes
- Serving: 12 servings
- Equipment: 10-inch bundt pan, mixing bowls, wire rack
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- Zest of 1 orange
Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla and almond extracts.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with sour cream, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
- Add Cranberries and Zest: Fold in the cranberries and orange zest. Transfer the batter into the prepared bundt pan.
- Bake: Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Glaze: Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Whisk together the glaze ingredients and drizzle over the cake once cooled.
A Slice of Holiday Magic
This Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake is a joyous addition to any holiday menu, offering a delightful blend of traditional flavors with a festive twist. It’s a splendid way to celebrate the season, bringing smiles and holiday spirit to all who taste it. Enjoy this cake as a fabulous conclusion to your holiday meals or a sweet accompaniment to your coffee on chilly winter mornings.
