Introduction to Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
Welcome to a world of deliciousness with my Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake! This charming dessert is not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a lifesaver in the busy kitchen. Perfect for an impromptu family gathering or simply to satisfy that sweet craving, this cake requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum joy. I still remember the first time I served it to my friends; their smiles were priceless. So, dust off your favorite skillet, and let’s embark on this delightful baking adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
This Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake is a true gem for anyone short on time but big on flavor. In just about an hour, you can create a stunning dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The moist texture and zesty cranberries paired with sweet apples make each bite a celebration. Plus, using just one skillet means less cleanup, giving you more time to enjoy with family and friends. It’s simplicity meets deliciousness!
Ingredients for Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
When baking this delightful Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake, you’ll need a few simple yet vital ingredients. Each one plays a unique role in creating that irresistible flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- Cranberries: Fresh or frozen, they bring tartness that beautifully complements the sweetness of the cake. If you can find tart varieties, even better!
- Apples: Choose your favorites, like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness. Their juiciness keeps the cake moist.
- All-purpose flour: This forms the structure of the cake. You can swap it out for a gluten-free blend if needed.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Both are essential for giving the cake its rise. They help create that fluffy, tender crumb everyone loves.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors. It’s like giving the cake a warm hug!
- Cinnamon: This fragrant spice adds warmth and coziness, making your kitchen smell heavenly while baking.
- Unsalted butter: It provides richness and moisture. Melt it slightly for a lovely, smooth batter.
- Granulated sugar: Essential for sweetness and balancing the tart cranberries. You can cut back a bit if you prefer it less sweet.
- Eggs: These bind the ingredients together, giving the cake structure and moisture. They’re the glue that holds it all!
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile—it just makes everything better.
- Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream: Both add moisture and a slight tang, making for a richer texture. You can use either, depending on what you have handy.
- Coarse sugar (optional): This gives a lovely crunchy topping, adding a delightful texture contrast. Feel free to sprinkle it on before baking.
- Extra ground cinnamon (optional): For those who can’t get enough, a little sprinkle on top before baking adds more flavor and warmth.
Exact quantities of each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article for your printing convenience. Happy gathering!
How to Make Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Skillet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully. While the oven warms up, generously grease a 10-inch ovenproof skillet with butter or nonstick spray. I love using cast iron for its even heat distribution, but any oven-safe skillet works. A well-prepared skillet helps keep the cake from sticking, making it easier to serve later. Trust me, no one wants to deal with a cake catastrophe!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Each of these players has a role to fill: flour provides structure, while baking powder and baking soda cause the cake to rise. The salt enhances flavors, and cinnamon whispers warmth into every bite. Mixing them well signals that they’re ready to blend harmoniously with your wet ingredients. It creates a solid base for your explode-with-flavor cake!
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. The melted butter brings richness, helping create that moist texture we all adore. Then, add eggs one at a time, whisking after each. Eggs are essential, binding everything together. Finally, stir in vanilla extract and Greek yogurt or sour cream. They contribute moisture and a delightful tang. This wet mixture’s velvety texture sets the stage for a truly scrumptious cake!
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, it’s time to gently fold the dry mixture into your wet ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overworking the batter can lead to a tough cake—yikes! You want that tender crumb that melts in your mouth. So, take it slow, and watch as your batter comes together, each fold smiling at the possibilities ahead!
Step 5: Add Fruits and Finish the Batter
The star of our cake, besides the cake itself, is the combination of cranberries and apples! Gently fold them into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. This is crucial; too many fruit clumps can lead to uneven baking. Those tart cranberries and juicy apples will create delightful pockets of flavor throughout the cake. Just picture that first bite bursting with fruity goodness—it simply makes my heart happy!
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Spread the batter evenly in your prepared skillet. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar and extra cinnamon on top for an added crunch and sweetness. Bake in the preheated oven for 38 to 42 minutes. Keep an eye on it; when the surface is golden and a toothpick comes out clean, your cake is done! Avoid opening the oven door too soon; it can cause the cake to sink. Patience pays off as your kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Don’t skip greasing your skillet; it prevents the cake from sticking!
- Measure flour accurately—too much can lead to a dense cake.
- Use fresh cranberries for a burst of flavor, but frozen works too!
- Let the cake cool in the skillet for a few minutes for easier slicing.
Equipment Needed
- 10-inch ovenproof skillet: A cast iron skillet works best, but any oven-safe skillet will do.
- Mixing bowls: Have a medium and a large bowl on hand for mixing.
- Whisk: Essential for blending wet ingredients smoothly.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: Perfect for folding ingredients together without overmixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure your cake turns out perfectly!
Variations of Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
- Nutty Delight: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and earthy flavor. The nuts create a delightful contrast to the softness of the cake!
- Spiced Version: Sprinkle in a touch of nutmeg or ginger for added warmth. These spices can elevate the flavor profile, perfect for fall gatherings.
- Vegan Twist: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use plant-based yogurt for a vegan-friendly version. It keeps all the deliciousness, just plant-powered!
- Chocolate Chunk: Toss in some dark chocolate chips for a rich twist. Chocolate and fruit make a surprisingly delightful combination!
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This way, everyone can enjoy your scrumptious creation without worry!
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
- Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a dreamy complement.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream takes indulgence to the next level.
- Tea or Coffee: Pair with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Garnish: Consider topping with powdered sugar or extra cranberries for an attractive presentation.
FAQs about Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly fine in this Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake. Just toss them in while still frozen to keep them from getting mushy in the batter. They’ll bake up beautifully!
How do I Store Leftovers?
This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it, but let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake a day in advance. Just let it cool completely, then cover and store it at room temperature. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a warm treat!
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use sour cream or even buttermilk. Each option will keep the cake moist and delicious, so feel free to choose whatever you have on hand!
Is this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure you check the labels for the best results, and you’ll have a lovely cake everyone can enjoy!
Final Thoughts
As I put the finishing touches on this Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake, I’m reminded of the joy it brings to my kitchen. The blend of sweet apples and tart cranberries creates a melody of flavors that dance on the palate. Sharing a slice with loved ones transforms ordinary moments into cherished memories. Whether you serve it warm out of the skillet or let it linger for dessert, this cake is sure to impress. Remember, cooking is not just about the food; it’s about the love and smiles shared. So, roll up your sleeves and bake up some happiness!
Print
Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and moist cranberry apple skillet cake, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons coarse sugar (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Generously grease a 10-inch ovenproof skillet, preferably cast iron, with butter or nonstick spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and Greek yogurt or sour cream until homogeneous.
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
- Gently fold in diced apples and cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Spread batter evenly into the prepared skillet. If desired, mix coarse sugar and extra ground cinnamon, then sprinkle evenly on top for added texture.
- Bake at 350°F for 38 to 42 minutes, or until the surface is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the skillet for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend.
- This cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
