Introduction to Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake
There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked treats filling the kitchen, especially during the holidays. Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is my go-to dessert, effortlessly balancing tart cranberries with sweet white chocolate. It’s the kind of dish that sparks joy at family gatherings or cozy afternoons with friends. I know how busy life can get, juggling work and kids, which is why this easy-to-make cake is a lifesaver. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, you’ll find that this recipe makes everyone feel like they’re indulging in a festive delight.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake
This Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is a delightful combination of simplicity and flavor. In just about an hour, you can whip up this stunning dessert, perfect for any occasion. The balance of tart cranberries and creamy white chocolate creates a taste explosion in every bite. Plus, it’s the kind of recipe that makes your kitchen feel like a holiday haven, leaving behind warm memories with every slice you serve.
Ingredients for Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake
Gathering the right ingredients is like setting the stage for a delightful culinary performance. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake:
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of your cake, providing structure and texture.
- Baking powder and baking soda: These are the leavening agents that help your cake rise beautifully.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, making them pop.
- Unsalted butter: Softened to create a rich, buttery flavor; it’s essential to let it sit at room temperature.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cake, giving it that lovely golden crust.
- Eggs: They bind the ingredients together, adding moisture and richness.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla brings out the other flavors and adds warmth.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Both options lend moisture and a delightful tang, making your cake tender.
- Cranberries: Fresh or frozen, these tart jewels are the star of the show, adding bursts of flavor.
- White chocolate chips or chunks: Sweetness with a creamy texture, they complement the cranberries beautifully.
- Cream cheese: Essential for the frosting, bringing a rich and creamy texture that’s hard to resist.
- Powdered sugar: This fine sugar is perfect for the frosting, ensuring a smooth finish.
- Heavy cream or milk: Used to adjust the frosting’s thickness, giving it a velvety texture.
For those looking to mix things up, consider using almond extract in place of vanilla for a nutty twist. Or, if you’re short on eggs, you can swap them for unsweetened applesauce. The exact measurements of each ingredient can be found at the bottom of this article, ready for your handy printing!
How to Make Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake
Making your Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is an adventure that starts with prepping your ingredients and ends with a warm slice of bliss. Follow these practical steps, and you’ll be well on your way to a festive delight.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
First things first: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent any sticky situations when it’s time to remove your cake!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is essential because it ensures an even distribution of leavening agents, giving your cake a lovely rise.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Next, in a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and pale. This will take about 2-3 minutes. Don’t rush; you want the texture to be light and airy. It’s like giving your cake a little pillow to rest on!
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Now it’s time to add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Follow this with the vanilla extract. The vanilla accentuates all the flavors, creating a warm hug for your taste buds.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet
Gently mix in the dry ingredients with the sour cream or Greek yogurt in three alternating parts. Start with a third of the dry, then half the sour cream, and keep alternating until it’s all combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want to maintain that soft texture.
Step 6: Fold in Cranberries and White Chocolate
Here comes the fun part! Carefully fold in the fresh or thawed cranberries along with the white chocolate chips. This is where your cake gets its signature bursts of flavor and sweetness, making every bite unforgettable.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep your eyes on the prize! The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be tempting!
Step 8: Prepare Frosting
While the cake is baking, whip up the frosting. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Then, mix in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a splash of heavy cream or milk, adjusting the consistency to your liking. You want it creamy, not runny!
Step 9: Frost and Garnish the Cake
Once your cake has cooled completely, it’s finally time to frost! Generously spread the creamy frosting over the top. For that festive touch, consider garnishing with white chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of chopped cranberries. Voila! Your Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is ready to shine!
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth batter.
- Don’t skip the parchment paper; it makes removing the cake a breeze.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting – it prevents the icing from melting.
- For extra flavor, consider adding orange zest to the batter.
- For a guilt-free version, swap half the sugar with applesauce.
Equipment Needed
- 9×9-inch square baking pan or an 8×8-inch pan for a thicker cake.
- Mixing bowls in various sizes for easy ingredient prep.
- Whisk or electric mixer for creaming butter and sugar.
- Spatula for folding in cranberries and chocolate.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
Variations on Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Lower Sugar: Replace some sugar with mashed bananas for natural sweetness.
- Spice it Up: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to add warmth and depth.
- Vegan Delight: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use plant-based butter and cream cheese.
- Citrus Burst: Include orange zest in the batter for a refreshing citrusy flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake
- Pair with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
- Garnish with additional cranberries or mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.
- Wrap slices in clear gift bags for thoughtful holiday gifts.
FAQs about Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work great in this Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the batter. This helps avoid excess moisture in your cake.
How can I store leftover coffee cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to a week. Just rewarm a slice in the microwave for a few seconds for a delightful treat!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, making the Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake a day in advance enhances its flavor. Just store it well, and frost it on the day you plan to serve it for optimal freshness.
What can I use as a substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
If you’re looking for a cream cheese alternative, try using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese. Both options will give you a creamy texture, perfect for frosting.
Can I leave out the white chocolate?
Of course! While the white chocolate adds a lovely sweetness, you can completely omit it if desired. The cranberries will still shine in this festive cake.
Final Thoughts
Every slice of this Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake tells a story of warmth, joy, and celebration. The combination of tart cranberries with sweet white chocolate captures the essence of the holidays, bringing friends and family together. Whether enjoyed with a morning cup of coffee or as a fun dessert after dinner, this cake never fails to create smiles. As you bake and share, remember that food has the power to forge connections and create memories. So, grab your apron and indulge in this delightful treat, knowing you’re spreading happiness with every bite.
Print
Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is a delicious and festive dessert that combines tart cranberries with sweet white chocolate, topped with a creamy frosting.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips or chunks
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Beat the softened butter with sugar until fluffy and pale.
- Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Add the dry ingredients and sour cream alternately in three parts, mixing gently.
- Fold in cranberries and white chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes.
- For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, then mix in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until desired consistency.
- Frost the cooled cake and garnish with white chocolate shavings or chopped cranberries.
Notes
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- This cake can be made a day in advance for enhanced flavor.
- For a vegan version, substitute eggs and dairy with suitable alternatives.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
