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Cranberry Pecan Cake recipe

Cranberry Pecan Cake

Emma F., smiling female cake chef wearing a pastel pink apron in a cozy kitchenEmma F.
A deliciously moist cake featuring the tartness of cranberries and the nutty crunch of pecans, perfect for holiday celebrations.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 9-inch round cake pan greased and floured
  • 1 electric mixer
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Add-ins

  • 1 cup fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add to wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
  • Gently fold in cranberries and pecans until evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
  • Pour batter into a greased and floured 9-inch round cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving

  • Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Garnish with additional pecans if desired.

Storage

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to two months.

Notes

Pro Tips: Ensure butter is at room temperature. Toss cranberries in flour to prevent sinking. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light. Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions: Dried cranberries can replace fresh ones. Add white chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
How to Serve: Serve with coffee or tea for a delightful pairing. Ideal for holiday gatherings.
Storage & Freshness: Store at room temperature in an airtight container. Refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Make-Ahead Tips: Bake a day ahead and store wrapped in plastic wrap to enhance flavors.
Keyword Cranberry Pecan Cake, holiday cake recipes, pecan dessert ideas