Cranberry Walnut Cake Recipe – Simply Wow!
This Cranberry Walnut Cake is a delightful blend of tangy cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and a soft, moist cake base.
You’ll start by folding the vibrant cranberries and chopped walnuts into a luscious batter, then bake it to golden perfection.
The sweet-tart flavors and nutty richness make it a perfect treat for any occasion.
How to Make Cranberry Walnut Cake
Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this scrumptious cake step by step.
Ingredients
The table below provides ingredient amounts for servings of 4, 6, and 8 people, along with suitable alternatives.
| Ingredient | 4 Servings | 6 Servings | 8 Servings | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh cranberries | 1 cup | 1.5 cups | 2 cups | Frozen cranberries (thawed) |
| Chopped walnuts | 1/2 cup | 3/4 cup | 1 cup | Pecans or almonds |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup | 1.5 cups | 2 cups | Whole wheat flour |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup | 1 cup | 1.5 cups | Brown sugar |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | 1.5 tsp | 2 tsp | Baking soda (adjust quantity) |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp | 1/2 tsp | 3/4 tsp | Himalayan pink salt |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 1/4 cup | 1/3 cup | 1/2 cup | Coconut oil or vegan butter |
| Eggs | 2 large | 3 large | 4 large | Flaxseed meal (1 tbsp + 3 tbsp water per egg) |
| Milk | 1/2 cup | 3/4 cup | 1 cup | Almond or oat milk |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 1.5 tsp | 2 tsp | Almond extract |
| Orange zest (optional) | 1 tsp | 1.5 tsp | 2 tsp | Lemon zest |
Cooking Instruments Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9-inch round cake pan or loaf pan
- Spatula
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
Lets go for the main work.
1. Prep the Cranberries and Walnuts
Toss the cranberries and chopped walnuts with 1-2 tablespoons of flour to prevent them from sinking in the batter.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
4. Combine and Fold
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the floured cranberries and walnuts.
5. Bake the Cake
Grease and flour your cake pan. Pour the batter into the pan and smooth the top. Bake at 325°F to 340°F (165°C to 170°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a glaze.
Tips for the Best Cranberry Walnut Cake
- For a burst of citrus flavor, add a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter.
- Toast the walnuts lightly before adding them for extra crunch and flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter to ensure a tender crumb.
Serving Suggestions
This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of orange glaze. Serve it with tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
Storing the Cake
- At Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- In the Refrigerator: Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
FAQ
Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but soak them in warm water for 10-15 minutes before using to make them plump and juicy.
Can I make this cake without nuts?
Absolutely! You can omit the walnuts or replace them with chocolate chips for a nut-free option.
What’s the best glaze for this cake?
A simple orange or lemon glaze complements the tart cranberries perfectly.
Bake this delectable Cranberry Walnut Cake and let its vibrant flavors impress everyone at your table! Try it out and share your experience with us!
