Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake: Irresistibly Moist and Flavorful Delight

I remember the first time I baked a Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake. It was a chilly autumn afternoon, and the aroma of the baking cake filled my home with warmth and anticipation. The tartness of the cranberries mixed with the nutty crunch of almonds created a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds. This Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake quickly became a family favorite, perfect for a cozy gathering or just a quiet moment with a hot cup of coffee.

What I love most about this Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake is its versatility and simplicity. The ingredients are straightforward, yet they come together to create a truly delightful treat. The combination of cranberries and almonds adds a festive touch, making it an ideal choice for holiday celebrations or a sweet indulgence any day of the week. This cake embodies the essence of home cooking—simple, satisfying, and always made with love.

The process of making this Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake is as enjoyable as the taste itself. The act of mixing, folding, and baking becomes a meditative experience, allowing me to lose myself in the rhythm of the kitchen. Each step brings a sense of accomplishment and anticipation, knowing that soon, I’ll be sharing something delicious and comforting with those I care about. It’s moments like these that remind me why I started GrandMmaDelights—to inspire others to discover the joy of cooking and the magic of creating meals that bring people together.

As we dive into the details of making this Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake, remember that the heart of this recipe lies not just in the ingredients, but in the joy and warmth it brings to your table. Let’s explore the steps and secrets behind this delightful cake, ensuring every slice is as perfect as the first time I baked it.

Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 1 cake (9×9-inch pan) 1x

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Description

Indulge in a delectable Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake recipe! Learn how to bake this moist and flavorful treat perfect for any occasion. Click here now!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (240 g)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (113 g)
• 1 cup plain yogurt (240 ml)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (4 g)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (2.5 g)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (1.5 g)
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (100 g)
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds (50 g)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (55 g)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (2 g)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan.
3. In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add the eggs to the butter mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. Mix in the vanilla extract.
7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
8. Gently fold in the cranberries.
9. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
10. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon.
11. Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture over the batter.
12. Top with sliced almonds, spreading them evenly.
13. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
14. Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack before serving.

Notes

• Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugar.
• Opt for fresh cranberries for a tangy kick, or use frozen if fresh aren’t on hand.
• Evenly sprinkle sliced almonds over the batter for a crispy topping.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 5g

Keywords: cranberry almond, coffee cake, breakfast dessert, homemade treat, holiday baking

Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake: The Basics

Fundamentals

At its core, the Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake is about balancing flavors and textures. The tartness of the cranberries complements the sweetness of the cake, while the almonds add a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft crumb. This cake is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of sweet and savory elements.

The ingredient list is simple yet effective. The all-purpose flour provides the structure, while the granulated sugar adds sweetness. Unsalted butter contributes to a rich flavor, and plain yogurt keeps the cake moist. Eggs give the cake its rise, and vanilla extract adds a hint of warmth. Baking powder and baking soda ensure the cake is light and fluffy, while a touch of salt brings out all the flavors.

Preparation/setup

Before you start, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the butter and eggs. This helps them incorporate more easily into the batter. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan. This step is crucial for even baking and easy removal of the cake from the pan.

In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is essential for a tender crumb, as creaming incorporates air into the batter, which helps the cake rise beautifully.

Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake: Mastering the Technique

Technique

Add the eggs to the butter mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures the batter is smooth and well-mixed. Mix in the vanilla extract, which adds a subtle depth of flavor. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the plain yogurt. Begin and end with the flour mixture to prevent curdling and ensure a smooth batter.

Gently fold in the cranberries with a spatula to distribute them evenly without crushing them. This step is crucial for maintaining the tart burst of flavor that cranberries bring to the cake. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent baking.

Tips/tricks

For a more pronounced almond flavor, consider toasting the sliced almonds before sprinkling them on top. This enhances their nutty aroma and crunch. You can also substitute some of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a richer, caramel-like sweetness.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of orange zest to the batter. The citrus notes pair beautifully with the cranberries and almonds, adding a refreshing twist. For those who prefer a sweeter cake, consider dusting with powdered sugar before serving.

Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake: Perfecting Every Slice

Perfecting results

Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This is your cue that the cake is perfectly baked. Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack before serving. This helps set the structure and makes slicing easier.

To achieve a perfectly moist cake, avoid overbaking. Keep a close eye on the cake in the final minutes of baking, as oven temperatures can vary. If the top begins to brown too quickly, tent it with foil to prevent over-browning.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your cake turns out too dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to maintain a tender crumb. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Experiment with different fruits and nuts for endless variations. Blueberries and pecans would make delightful alternatives, providing a new flavor profile while keeping the essence of the cake intact.

Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake: Serving and Storage

Serving/presentation

Present your Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake on a beautiful cake stand or platter. The vibrant cranberries and golden almonds create a visually appealing contrast that’s sure to impress. Serve slices warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.

A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the indulgence factor. For a lighter option, try serving with a side of fresh fruit or a simple yogurt drizzle. These accompaniments enhance the cake without overpowering its natural flavors.

Pairings/storage

This cake pairs wonderfully with a steaming cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea, making it a perfect choice for brunch or an afternoon treat. The flavors complement each other, providing a delightful experience with every bite.

To store, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to three months. To serve from frozen, allow the cake to thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Conclusion

The Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake is a delightful celebration of flavors and textures. Its simplicity and versatility make it a beloved choice for any occasion. With the tartness of cranberries, the nutty crunch of almonds, and the soft, moist crumb of the cake, it’s a recipe that never fails to impress.

Creating this cake is a rewarding experience, from the satisfying process of baking to the joy of sharing it with loved ones. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy breakfast treat or a sweet afternoon indulgence, this cake is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

By mastering the techniques and exploring variations, you can customize the Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake to suit your taste. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to bring people together, creating moments of joy and connection around the table.

FAQs – Cranberry Almond Coffee Cake