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Barb's Christmas Cake

A heartwarming dessert featuring layers of moist cake adorned with fresh cranberries and creamy frosting, perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cake Ingredients
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Light and fluffy, providing the foundation for our delightful cake.
  • 1.5 teaspoons baking powder Ensures a rise that makes the cake irresistibly airy.
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
  • 0.75 cups unsalted butter, at room temperature Creamy and rich, this is the secret to moistness.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar Sweetness to complement the tart cranberries.
  • 3 large eggs Bind the ingredients together for a luscious texture.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Adds warmth and depth to the cake.
  • 0.5 cup milk Keeps the batter smooth and adds moisture.
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries (for decoration) Bright, tart accents that capture the spirit of the season.
Frosting Ingredients
  • 2 cups heavy cream Forms the fluffy base for our indulgent frosting.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting) To elevate flavors in the creamy topping.
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (for frosting) For a touch of sweetness.
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Rich and tangy, a must for our frosting.
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting) Brings creaminess for a luxurious finish.
  • Fresh holly sprigs or edible holly leaves Festive decorations to crown your cake.
  • Powdered sugar for dusting Just a hint of sweetness to beautify your creation.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8-inch round cake pan by greasing and flouring it, or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
  6. Carefully pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
Baking
  1. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then move it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  2. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream. Beat until lightened and fluffy.
Assembly
  1. Once cooled, slice the cake in half horizontally to create two layers.
  2. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top of the bottom layer.
  3. Place the second layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
  4. Decorate with fresh cranberries, holly sprigs, and dust with powdered sugar.

Notes

To enhance flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon. Consider using store-bought cream cheese frosting for a quicker option. Serve with spiced tea or coffee.