Why This Loaf Cake Is So Loved
This cake stands out because it offers:
- Soft buttery texture
- Sweet vanilla flavor
- Juicy cranberry pieces
- Beautiful festive look
- Easy loaf-style baking
It feels elegant but is simple enough for beginners.
Ingredients You Will Need
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup butter (softened)
- 2 eggs
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla
Optional Decoration
- Extra cranberries
- White chocolate shavings
Choosing the Best Cranberries
You can use:
- Fresh cranberries (slightly tart)
- Dried cranberries (sweeter)
If using fresh:
- Toss lightly in flour to prevent sinking.
Preparing the Batter
In a bowl cream together:
- Butter
- Sugar
Beat until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
Add vanilla extract for aroma.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In another bowl combine:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Salt
Mix evenly before adding to wet ingredients.
Combining Everything
Add dry ingredients gradually, alternating with milk.
Mix gently until smooth.
Do not overmix — this keeps cake soft.
Fold cranberries gently into batter.
Preparing the Loaf Pan
Grease a loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
Pour batter evenly.
Tap lightly to remove air bubbles.
Baking the Cake
Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F).
Bake for:
- 45–55 minutes
Check with toothpick:
- Should come out clean or with few crumbs.
Top should be golden and slightly cracked.
Cooling the Cake Properly
Let cake cool in pan for:
- 10 minutes
Then transfer to rack and cool completely.
Never glaze while warm — glaze will melt.
Making the Creamy Glaze
Mix:
- Powdered sugar
- Milk or cream
- Vanilla
Stir until smooth and pourable.
Adjust thickness by adding more sugar or milk.
Decorating the Loaf
Pour glaze over cooled cake.
Top with:
- Cranberries
- White chocolate shavings
Let glaze set for clean slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
Perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Storage Tips
Room Temperature
- Airtight container
- Up to 2 days
Refrigerator
- Up to 5 days
Freezer
- Wrap slices individually
- Up to 2 months
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing batter
- Adding glaze too early
- Too many cranberries
- Overbaking
- Using cold butter
Small details make a big difference.
Flavor Variations
Try these ideas:
Orange version: add orange zest.
Chocolate twist: add white chocolate chips.
Nut version: add chopped pecans.
Lemon glaze: replace vanilla with lemon juice.
Easy to customize.
Tips for Extra Moist Cake
- Use room-temperature ingredients
- Don’t overbake
- Measure flour correctly
- Fold fruit gently
These steps ensure soft texture.
Why This Cake Is Perfect for Holidays
This loaf is great because:
- Festive color
- Easy to slice
- Make-ahead friendly
- Looks beautiful on table
Ideal for gatherings.
Perfect Occasions
Great for:
- Holiday desserts
- Afternoon tea
- Brunch tables
- Gift baking
Everyone loves a soft fruit loaf.
Final Thoughts
This cranberry vanilla loaf cake is soft, moist, and filled with fruity flavor, topped with a sweet creamy glaze that makes it look and taste bakery-quality. It’s easy to make yet elegant enough for special occasions.