Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake

There’s something magical about the aroma of warm spices wafting through the kitchen, don’t you think? Imagine diving into a slice of Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake, where tart cranberries tango with sweet apples and crunchy pecans in a delightful dance of flavors. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that promises to envelop you in cozy warmth and joy.

Picture this: You’re gathered with family during the holidays, laughter fills the air, and someone brings out this stunning cake. Suddenly, all eyes are on it! The vibrant colors beckon, and the first bite reveals a symphony of flavors that make you wonder how you ever lived without it. This Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake is perfect for any occasion—be it Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a Tuesday when you need to treat yourself!

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake:

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to your cake; sifting it helps aerate for a lighter texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly; choose fine sugar for even mixing.
• Baking Powder: The leavening agent that gives your cake its lovely rise.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances flavors; kosher salt is always a good choice.
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice—because who doesn’t love a little cinnamon?
• Eggs: Bind everything together and add moisture; use room temperature eggs for best results.
• Unsalted Butter: For richness—make sure it’s softened to cream easily with sugar.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash adds depth and enhances all the other flavors.
• Apples: Use tart varieties like Granny Smith for that perfect sweet-tart balance.
• Dried Cranberries: They bring tartness and chewiness—feel free to substitute fresh if you prefer!
• Pecans: Chopped pecans add crunch; toast them lightly to enhance their flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you gather your ingredients. Grease and flour a round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until well blended. This ensures even distribution of those essential leavening agents.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This will take about three minutes of vigorous whipping—think of it as your arm workout for the day!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in that delightful splash of vanilla extract that will have your kitchen smelling divine.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Gradually mix in your dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples, dried cranberries, and pecans with care—no need to overmix here!

Step 6: Bake

Pour your batter into the prepared pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool before serving!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Trust me; this Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake will be gone faster than you can say “food coma!”

Perfecting Cooking Process

To whip up the best Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake, start by prepping your ingredients: chop the apples, toast the pecans, and measure out your flour and sugar. Mix the dry ingredients first, then combine them with the wet ingredients for a smooth batter that bakes evenly.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to get creative with your Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake! Swap in walnuts instead of pecans or add spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a cozy autumn vibe. You can also toss in some chocolate chips for an unexpected twist!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for about a week. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds before serving.

I remember the first time I made this Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake. My friends raved about it so much that I almost believed they were plotting to steal my recipe!

FAQs

What is Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake?

Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake is a delightful dessert that combines tart cranberries, sweet apples, and crunchy pecans. This cake often features a moist texture, thanks to the apples, while the cranberries add a burst of flavor. Pecans provide a nutty crunch, enhancing the overall experience. Typically enjoyed during the fall season or festive gatherings, this cake can be served as a comforting treat with coffee or tea. Its balance of sweetness and tartness makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

How do you make Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake?

Making Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake involves mixing flour, sugar, and baking powder with fresh cranberries, chopped apples, and pecans. Start by creaming butter and sugar until fluffy, then gradually add eggs. In another bowl, combine dry ingredients and alternate adding them with milk to the butter mixture. Fold in cranberries and pecans before pouring the batter into a prepared baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool before serving.

Can I substitute ingredients in Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake?

Yes, you can substitute ingredients in Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake without losing its essence. For instance, if you want to make it gluten-free, use almond flour or a gluten-free blend instead of all-purpose flour. You can also replace pecans with walnuts or omit nuts entirely for allergy concerns. If fresh cranberries are unavailable, dried cranberries work well too but may alter the moisture level slightly. Adjusting these ingredients allows for personal preferences while maintaining flavor.

What occasions are perfect for serving Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake?

Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake is ideal for various occasions due to its delicious flavor profile and beautiful presentation. It shines during Thanksgiving or Christmas as part of holiday desserts. Additionally, it’s perfect for autumn gatherings like harvest parties or potlucks because of its seasonal ingredients. Enjoying this cake at brunches or tea parties also creates a cozy atmosphere. Its versatility makes it suitable for both casual get-togethers and more formal celebrations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake is an irresistible dessert that blends tart cranberries with sweet apples and crunchy pecans. Its approachable recipe makes it easy to prepare for various occasions, whether it’s a festive gathering or a simple family dinner. With the ability to customize ingredients to suit your dietary needs, this cake is accessible to everyone. Enjoying a slice of this delightful cake brings warmth and joy to any table during the fall season or year-round celebrations.

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Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake

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• Author: Sarah Mitchell
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 10 slices 1x

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Description

Cranberry Apple Pecan Cake is a delightful blend of tart cranberries, sweet apples, and crunchy pecans, creating a cozy, flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion. This cake offers a beautiful presentation and an aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays or enjoying a casual get-together, this easy-to-follow recipe guarantees a mouthwatering treat that will impress family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups tart apples (chopped)
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup pecans (chopped)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Fold in chopped apples, cranberries, and pecans gently.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 70mg