This delightful apple cake with cranberries is a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. The moist texture of the cake combined with the juicy apples and tangy cranberries creates a harmonious balance that will leave your taste buds craving more. Whether you're serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, this cake is sure to impress.
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common pantry staples, you might need to make a special trip to the supermarket for fresh or frozen cranberries. These berries add a unique tartness to the cake that complements the sweetness of the apples. Make sure to check the produce or frozen fruit section to find them.

Ingredients For Apple Cake With Cranberries
Flour: The base of the cake, providing structure and texture.
Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the cranberries.
Baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure.
Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor to the cake.
Apples: Provide moisture and a natural sweetness.
Cranberries: Add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the apples.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
When folding in the apples and cranberries, be gentle to avoid breaking them down too much. This ensures that the fruit pieces remain intact and provide bursts of flavor and texture throughout the cake. Use a spatula and a slow, deliberate motion to incorporate the fruit evenly into the batter.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the cake denser.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides a natural sweetness and adds moisture to the cake. Use ¾ cup honey for every cup of sugar and reduce other liquids slightly.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar for every teaspoon of baking powder.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and may add a slightly different flavor profile.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and can add a subtle coconut flavor to the cake.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. This is a good vegan alternative and adds fiber.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but complementary flavor to the cake.
apples - Substitute with pears: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good alternative to apples.
cranberries - Substitute with dried cherries: Dried cherries provide a similar tartness and can be used in the same quantity.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Cake
How To Store / Freeze This Cake
- Allow the apple cake to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the cake soggy.
- Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to keep the cake moist and prevents it from drying out.
- Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This provides an extra layer of protection against air and moisture.
- Store the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Ensure the container is sealed properly to maintain freshness.
- For freezing, wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps to prevent freezer burn.
- Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date to keep track of its storage time.
- Freeze the cake for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
- To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. This will help to revive the cake's texture and flavor.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Wrap the apple cake with cranberries in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Place it on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the cake's moist texture and ensures even reheating.
Microwave Method: Place a slice of the apple cake with cranberries on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check the temperature and continue heating in 10-second intervals if needed. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the cake rubbery.
Steaming Method: If you have a steamer, this is a gentle way to reheat the cake. Place the apple cake with cranberries on a heatproof plate or in a steamer basket. Steam for about 5-7 minutes. This method helps retain the cake's moisture and texture.
Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the apple cake with cranberries on a piece of aluminum foil or a small baking tray. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This method is great for reheating smaller portions without using a full-sized oven.
Skillet Method: For a quick and slightly crispy reheating option, heat a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place a slice of the apple cake with cranberries in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This method can add a slight caramelization to the cake's exterior while keeping the inside moist.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Oven: Used to bake the cake at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).
Baking pan: Holds the cake batter while it bakes in the oven.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the dry ingredients and the wet ingredients separately.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, sugar, and other ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract.
Spatula: Helps in folding the apples and cranberries into the batter.
Whisk: Useful for mixing the wet ingredients together smoothly.
Peeler: Used to peel the apples before chopping them.
Knife: Essential for chopping the apples into small pieces.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the apples.
Toothpick: Used to check if the cake is done by inserting it into the center and seeing if it comes out clean.
Cooling rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly after baking.
Grease brush: Used to apply butter or oil to the baking pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
Sifter: Helps to aerate the flour and remove any lumps before mixing.
How to Save Time on Making This Cake
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting. This will streamline the process and reduce preparation time.
Use a food processor: Chop apples and cranberries quickly using a food processor instead of doing it by hand.
Melt butter in microwave: Save time by melting the butter in the microwave instead of on the stove.
Line the pan: Use parchment paper to line the baking pan for easy removal and less cleanup.
Mix dry ingredients in advance: Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt ahead of time and store in an airtight container.

Apple Cake With Cranberries
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Sugar
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- ½ cup Butter, melted
- 2 Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 2 cups Apples, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup Cranberries, fresh or frozen
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add to the dry ingredients and mix well.
- Fold in the chopped apples and cranberries.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool before serving. Enjoy!
Nutritional Value
Keywords
Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses for This Recipe
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