Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake

A Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is a show-stopping dessert that blends festive flavors with an irresistibly moist texture. With its vibrant red cranberry filling and snowy white frosting, it’s the perfect centerpiece for your holiday dessert table. This cake combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of a tender vanilla cake, creating a delightful balance of flavors.

Poke cakes are beloved for their unique texture and presentation. The “poke” technique allows the cake to absorb flavorful fillings, ensuring every bite is moist and bursting with flavor. This Christmas-themed version takes it a step further by adding a homemade cranberry sauce that provides a seasonal twist.

Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or as a homemade gift, this cake is as versatile as it is beautiful. With easy-to-follow steps, even beginner bakers can master this dessert. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a dessert that’s bound to become a holiday tradition!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive Appeal: The bright red cranberry filling and snowy white frosting make this cake perfect for holiday celebrations.
Moist Texture: The poke method ensures the cake is tender and flavorful in every bite.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dessert is a hit with both kids and adults, making it ideal for family gatherings.
Simple to Make: With basic ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is accessible for bakers of all levels.
Customizable: Easily adapt the flavors or decorations to suit your taste and creativity.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
• Chill Time: 1–2 hours
• Total Time: 2.5–3 hours
• Yield: 12 servings
• Serving Size: 1 slice

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 28g

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Cranberry Filling

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon orange zest

For the Frosting

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish

• Sugared cranberries
• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• Edible glitter (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes in the pan.

Step 3: Make the Cranberry Filling

1. While the cake bakes, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest in a medium saucepan.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10–12 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.

Step 4: Poke the Cake

1. Once the cake has cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the surface of the cake, about 1 inch apart.
2. Pour the cranberry filling over the cake, spreading it with a spatula to ensure it seeps into the holes.

Step 5: Prepare the Whipped Cream Frosting

1. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread the whipped cream frosting evenly over the cooled cake.

Step 6: Decorate and Chill

1. Garnish the cake with sugared cranberries, rosemary sprigs, and a sprinkle of edible glitter for a festive touch.
2. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Ingredient Background

Cranberries:

Fresh or frozen cranberries provide the tart, vibrant filling that balances the sweetness of the cake and frosting. Their bright red color adds a festive touch.

Orange Zest:

Orange zest enhances the cranberry filling with a hint of citrus, complementing the tartness with subtle sweetness.

Buttermilk:

Buttermilk adds tang and helps create a tender crumb in the cake. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.

Whipping Cream:

The light, fluffy frosting pairs perfectly with the moist cake and tangy cranberry filling, keeping the dessert balanced.

Technique Tips

• Even Poking: Make sure the holes are evenly spaced to allow the cranberry filling to soak into every bite of the cake.
• Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool completely before adding the frosting to prevent it from melting.
• Fresh Garnish: Add the sugared cranberries and rosemary just before serving to keep them looking fresh.
• Chill the Tools: For the best whipped cream, chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Layered Cake: Bake the cake in two 8-inch round pans, slice each in half, and layer with cranberry filling and frosting.
• Cupcakes: Make cupcakes instead of a sheet cake, and fill each with cranberry sauce before topping with whipped cream frosting.
• Festive Shapes: Use a cookie cutter to create individual Christmas-themed shapes like stars or trees.
• Mini Trifles: Assemble the cake, cranberry filling, and whipped cream in individual glasses for a stunning trifle presentation.

Additional Tips for Success

• Room-Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature eggs and butter for smoother batter and even baking.
• Homemade Sugared Cranberries: Toss cranberries in simple syrup, then roll them in granulated sugar for a sparkly garnish.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the cranberry filling before pouring it over the cake and adjust the sugar to your preference.

Recipe Variations

• Lemon Cranberry Poke Cake: Add lemon zest to the cake batter and use lemon curd in place of some cranberry filling.
• Chocolate Cranberry Poke Cake: Add cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolate base that pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the cake suitable for gluten-intolerant guests.
• Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs, butter with vegan margarine, and whipped cream with coconut cream.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration

Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results, keep any garnishes separate and add them just before serving.

Freezing

• Whole Cake: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months.
• Individual Slices: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for easy serving.
• Thawing Tips: Thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator and frost with fresh whipped cream if needed.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Reduce Sugar: Use less sugar in the cranberry filling and opt for unsweetened whipped cream.
• Whole-Grain Flour: Replace part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut milk for the whipped cream and a plant-based milk in the cake.
• Natural Sweeteners: Replace granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup in the filling.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Christmas Eve Dessert: Serve with a hot chocolate bar for a festive evening treat.
• Holiday Party Centerpiece: Present the cake on a decorative cake stand for a stunning table centerpiece.
• Gift-Worthy Cake: Bake the cake in disposable pans and wrap them in holiday-themed foil for thoughtful homemade gifts.
• Winter Brunch: Pair the cake with mimosas or coffee for a sweet addition to your brunch menu.

Special Equipment

• 9×13-inch Baking Pan: Perfect for baking the cake evenly.
• Wooden Spoon: Ideal for creating evenly spaced holes.
• Zester: Necessary for adding fresh citrus zest to the filling.
• Electric Mixer: Ensures a fluffy cake batter and whipped cream frosting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use store-bought cranberry sauce for the filling?
   Yes, but ensure it’s smooth and free of whole cranberries for easier absorption into the cake.
2. What’s the best substitute for buttermilk?
   Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Absolutely! Prepare the cake and add the filling a day in advance, then frost just before serving.
4. How do I prevent the cake from becoming soggy?
   Avoid over-saturating the cake with the cranberry filling, and allow it to chill thoroughly before frosting.
5. Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?
   Yes, store-bought whipped topping is a convenient substitute for the frosting.
6. What’s the best way to transport this cake?
   Chill the cake thoroughly, cover it securely with plastic wrap or a lid, and transport in a sturdy container.
7. Can I add alcohol to the cake?
   Yes, a splash of Grand Marnier or rum in the cranberry filling adds an adult twist.
8. How can I decorate the cake for other occasions?
   Swap the cranberries for fresh strawberries or raspberries, and garnish with edible flowers or chocolate shavings.

Conclusion

Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that encapsulates the flavors and spirit of the holiday season. Its tender cake, vibrant cranberry filling, and fluffy whipped cream frosting make it a hit with everyone. Easy to prepare, yet impressive in presentation, this cake is perfect for gatherings, parties, or gifting.

Whether you follow the recipe as is or explore the suggested variations, this festive dessert is guaranteed to brighten your celebrations. Bake a Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake this holiday season and savor the joy it brings to your table!

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