This Cranberry Almond Delight Cake is a perfect blend of tangy cranberries and nutty almonds, creating a delightful treat that's ideal for any occasion. With its moist texture and vibrant flavors, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Fresh cranberries bring a burst of tartness that perfectly complements the sweet elements of the cake. All-purpose flour provides structure, while almond flour adds a subtle nuttiness and a tender crumb. Baking powder helps the cake rise, and a pinch of salt enhances all the flavors. The unsalted butter lends richness, and granulated sugar sweetens the deal. Eggs contribute to the cake's structure and moisture. Almond extract enhances the nutty flavor, and milk keeps the batter smooth. Finally, sliced almonds on top offer a delightful crunch and a beautiful finish.
This cake is a fantastic stand-alone dessert, but serving it slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate it even further. For a cozy winter treat, pair it with a warm mug of spiced tea.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan well, ensuring every nook is covered to prevent sticking. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mix aside for now.
In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until they’re light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the almond extract for that lovely aromatic touch.
Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. You don’t want to over-mix here. Gently fold in the cranberries with a spatula, making sure they’re evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for maintaining the cake’s moisture and texture.