Name: Indulge in Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake for a Festive Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (can substitute with gluten-free flour blend); 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (can replace with plant-based butter); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 to 1.5 cups fresh cranberries (dried cranberries can be used with reduced sugar); 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional); 8 ounces cream cheese; 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; splash milk/cream (to adjust frosting consistency)

As I mix the vibrant red cranberries into the batter, a wave of nostalgia washes over me, reminding me of cozy holiday mornings spent in the kitchen. This Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is more than just a delightful treat; it’s a testament to the joy of cooking at home. Perfect for festive breakfasts or comforting afternoon snacks, this recipe strikes a harmonious balance between tart cranberries and creamy frosting, all wrapped in a tender crumb. You can whip it up in just over an hour, and the best part? It can easily accommodate dietary needs, making it versatile for everyone at the table. Whether you’re serving it warm with coffee or savoring it on its own, this cake is bound to become a cherished favorite. Ready to see how you can create your own slice of joy? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this cake a must-try?

Festive Delight: This Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is not just a treat; it brings the spirit of the holidays to your table, making it ideal for gatherings or cozy breakfasts.

Versatile Options: Whether you’re gluten-free or prefer a dairy-free version, this recipe easily adapts to fit dietary preferences without compromising on taste.

Moist and Fluffy: Thanks to the perfect balance of ingredients, you’ll enjoy a cake that’s moist, fluffy, and bursting with tart cranberry flavors—every bite is a delight!

Quick Prep: With preparation in just over an hour, you can enjoy a homemade treat without spending all day in the kitchen.

Crowd-Pleaser: From kids to adults, this cake appeals to all, making it a fantastic choice for brunch or afternoon tea. Don’t forget to check out our tips for serving it warm with coffee!

Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Ingredients

For the Batter

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour blend for dietary needs.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring your cake stays fluffy.
Salt – Enhances flavor, bringing out the sweetness of the cake.
Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; can replace with plant-based butter for a dairy-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter, creating a delightful contrast to the tart cranberries.
Eggs – Acts as a binder, ensuring the cake has a tender texture.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses aromatic flavor, elevating the overall taste of the cake.
Fresh Cranberries – Provides tartness and vibrant color; dried cranberries can be used with reduced sugar for a sweeter twist.
White Chocolate Chips (optional) – Adds a delightful touch of sweetness and richness to the cake.

For the Frosting

Cream Cheese – Creates a creamy texture with a tangy flavor, perfect for topping.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth, appealing consistency.
Milk/Cream – Adjusts frosting consistency, ensuring it spreads easily over your cake.

This Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is a must-try, bringing festive cheer right into your kitchen!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take an 8×8 inch baking pan and grease it well with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This sets the stage for your Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake to bake evenly and achieve that beautiful golden crust.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This step is essential as it combines the leavening agent and seasoning, ensuring your cake has the right texture and flavor. Set the bowl aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, cream 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a lovely base for your Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed evenly.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add two large eggs, one at a time, to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate. Then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This will enrich the batter with moisture and flavor, making your cake irresistibly delightful as it bakes.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture
Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet batter using a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the tenderness of your Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy, giving it a rustic charm.

Step 6: Add Cranberries and Chocolate
Gently fold in 1 to 1.5 cups of fresh cranberries and, if desired, 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips. These additions will provide bursts of tartness and sweetness in every bite. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter to enhance the overall flavor of the cake.

Step 7: Bake the Cake
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. As it bakes, your kitchen will be filled with a warm, inviting aroma signaling something delicious is underway!

Step 8: Cool Before Frosting
Once baked, remove the Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling phase is important as frosting it while warm can cause the frosting to melt away.

Step 9: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake cools, make the frosting by beating together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add in 2 cups of powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until creamy. Adjust the consistency with a splash of milk or cream if necessary, making it easy to spread.

Step 10: Frost and Garnish
Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top using an offset spatula. For an extra touch, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cranberries or chocolate shavings if you like. This final step adds visual appeal and a hint of festivity to your Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake!

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps it soft and flavorful, perfect for enjoying with morning coffee.

Fridge: If you want to extend its life, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Freezer: You can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.

Reheating: For a cozy treat, gently warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving. This enhances the flavors and makes the Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake even more inviting!

Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Variations

Feel free to personalize this delightful coffee cake with these fun and creative twists that will tickle your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously moist cake that everyone can enjoy without gluten.
Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative; your cake will be just as rich and creamy without the dairy.
Sweet Swaps: If fresh cranberries aren’t available, dried cranberries can do the trick; just reduce the sugar slightly to balance their sweetness.
Citrus Burst: Add the zest of an orange or lemon into the batter; this lively twist brings a refreshing brightness that beautifully complements the cranberries.
Nutty Texture: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch; they add a wonderful texture contrast to the soft cake.
Spicy Snap: Sprinkle a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm spiced flavor that’s comforting and perfect for chilly days.
Chocolate Lovers: Boost the richness by using dark chocolate chips instead of white chocolate; the combination of tart cranberries and dark chocolate is simply divine.
Extra Frosting: Double the frosting recipe if you love a generous layer on top; you can even add cocoa powder for a chocolate cream cheese frosting!

Each of these variations invites a new experience, making the Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake a versatile treat you can enjoy all year round. Pair it with a warm cup of coffee for the ultimate cozy experience, or have fun exploring variations inspired by the season!

Expert Tips for Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake

Avoid Overmixing: Be gentle when combining the batter. Overmixing can cause the cake to become dense and chewy rather than light and fluffy.
Room Temperature Eggs: Use eggs that are at room temperature for better integration into the mixture, contributing to a moist and tender crumb in your Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake.
Cool Before Frosting: Always wait until the cake is completely cool before applying the frosting; this prevents any melting and keeps the frosting beautifully intact.
Add Flavor Variations: Consider adding chopped nuts or citrus zest for even more depth in flavor, making each slice of your Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake unique and delightful!
Check for Doneness: To ensure your cake is perfectly baked, do the toothpick test towards the end of the baking time. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready!
Store Properly: Keep leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate to maintain freshness and flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holidays! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix everything together and store it covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. For even more convenience, the cake can be baked and then cooled, stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days before frosting. To keep its moist texture, wrap the cake well. When you’re ready to serve, frost it just before presenting. This way, your cake will remain just as delicious and festive, making your meal planning effortless!

What to Serve with Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake

As the aroma of freshly baked cake fills your kitchen, let’s explore delightful pairings that will elevate your gathering even further.

Warm Coffee: The rich, bold flavor of coffee complements the cake’s sweetness beautifully, making it the perfect morning indulgence.
Herbal Tea: A fragrant herbal tea like chamomile or peppermint adds a soothing element, perfect for cozy afternoons spent with loved ones.
Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad serves as a colorful, juicy contrast to the dense cake, enhancing its delightful tartness.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a luscious, airy texture, balancing the cake’s richness.
Cheese Board: Pairing slices of the cake with creamy brie or tangy goat cheese offers a delightful mixture of flavors and a sophisticated touch.
Cranberry-Orange Muffins: Enhance the cranberry theme with cranberry-orange muffins on the side; the citrus brightens the overall palate and perfectly complements the cake.
Spiced Apple Cider: This warm drink brings a festive vibe to your table, with its notes of cinnamon and cloves enhancing the cake’s flavors beautifully.
Chocolate Chunk Cookies: If you want a sweet surprise, serve some chocolate chunk cookies alongside, creating an irresistible dessert spread that everyone will love.

Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberries should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh cranberries provide a vibrant color and tart flavor that really makes this cake shine. If fresh aren’t available, you can use dried cranberries, but be sure to reduce the sugar in the batter to maintain balance.

How long can I store leftover cake?
You can store the Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, pop it in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before slicing for the best experience!

Can I freeze the Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake?
Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake! Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before frosting it.

Why is my cake dense and not fluffy?
If your Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Mix gently until just combined to ensure a light and fluffy texture. Also, using room temperature eggs can make a difference, helping to incorporate air for a better rise.

Is this cake suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Very! You can easily make this Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, substituting unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative will create a delicious, dairy-free version that everyone can enjoy!

How do I adjust the frosting consistency if it’s too thick?
If your cream cheese frosting is too thick for spreading, simply add a splash of milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, mixing well until you reach your desired consistency. This will make it smooth and easy to work with, ensuring it spreads beautifully over your cake.