Irresistible Cranberry Walnut Cake Recipe to Delight You

Name: Cranberry Walnut Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 3 large eggs (room temperature); 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (do not thaw); 1 cup chopped walnuts (toasted); 2 tsp vanilla extract; Powdered sugar for frosting (optional)

Recipe By:

Ruth

Posted:

December 6, 2025

Updated:

December 6, 2025

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Cranberry Walnut Cake is a delightful balance of sweet and tart, with a crunchy texture that dances on your taste buds. Imagine biting into a moist slice packed with juicy cranberries and crunchy walnuts, all while the warm aroma wafts through your kitchen like an enthusiastic hug from Granny.

Every bite of this cake brings me back to family gatherings where laughter mingled with the scent of fresh-baked treats. It’s perfect for holiday feasts, cozy afternoon teas, or when you simply want to impress your friends. Trust me, once you try this Cranberry Walnut Cake, you’ll be dreaming of reasons to make it again.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delicious Cranberry Walnut Cake is easy to prepare and perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros
The flavor profile combines sweet cranberries with earthy walnuts for a delightful treat
Its inviting appearance will have everyone reaching for seconds
Versatile enough for any occasion, from festive dinners to casual brunches

I once brought this cake to a potluck, and let me tell you, it disappeared faster than my last piece of chocolate cake. Everyone couldn’t resist asking for the recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of your cake; sift it well for a lighter texture.
Granulated Sugar: Sweeten the deal! Adjust according to personal taste if you prefer less sweetness.
Baking Powder: Essential for that fluffy rise; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
Salt: Don’t skip this! A pinch enhances the flavors beautifully.
Unsalted Butter: Use softened butter for easy creaming; it adds richness and moisture.
Eggs: Bring them to room temperature; they help bind everything together perfectly.
Fresh Cranberries: Go for tartness! Frozen cranberries work too—just don’t thaw them first!
Chopped Walnuts: Toast them lightly before adding; it brings out their nutty flavor and crunch.
Vanilla Extract: Opt for pure extract for that warm flavor boost; it makes all the difference.
Powdered Sugar (for frosting): A must-have if you’re feeling fancy with a sweet glaze on top!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Cranberry Walnut Cake

How to Make Cranberry Walnut Cake

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan so your masterpiece doesn’t stick.

Create the Batter Base: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt; whisk until combined. The dry ingredients should look like a sandy beach—smooth and inviting.

Cream That Butter!: In another bowl, cream softened butter until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture should look light and airy—like clouds on a sunny day!

Add in Flavorful Ingredients: Stir in vanilla extract followed by your fresh or frozen cranberries and chopped walnuts. Gently fold these in like you’re cradling a baby bird—carefully but firmly!

Pour and Bake!: Transfer your batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until golden brown. Keep an eye on it—the aroma will tempt you long before it’s ready!

Cool Down Time!: Once baked, let your cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Patience is key here; let it cool completely before slicing into its deliciousness!

Now that you’ve mastered how to create this wonderful Cranberry Walnut Cake, enjoy each slice as if you’re savoring little bites of happiness! Pair it with coffee or tea—it’s bound to bring smiles all around!

You Must Know

This delightful cranberry walnut cake is incredibly moist and bursting with flavor
The combination of tart cranberries and crunchy walnuts creates a snack that’s perfect for any occasion
The aroma while baking will have your family wandering into the kitchen like hungry ghosts

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix dry ingredients first, then cream butter and sugar before adding eggs. Fold in cranberries and walnuts last for even distribution.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cranberries with blueberries or add a hint of orange zest for a citrus twist. Experimenting can lead to delightful surprises that suit your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked warmth.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always sift together dry ingredients to avoid lumps; this makes your cake fluffier
Use room temperature butter and eggs for better emulsification, ensuring a smooth batter
Remember, let the cake cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure and moisture

The first time I made this cranberry walnut cake, my kids couldn’t resist sneaking pieces while it cooled—let’s just say our kitchen looked like a crime scene of crumbs!

FAQ

Can I use frozen cranberries in my cranberry walnut cake?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well; just fold them in straight from the freezer.

How can I tell when my cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.

What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?

Check your oven temperature and ensure you’re not overmixing the batter, which can cause sinking.

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