Some desserts have a way of warming the soul, effortlessly blending sweetness and spice in every bite. The Cranberry Coffee Cake is one such creation, a moist, tender cake laced with tart cranberries and topped with a cinnamon-sugar crumble that adds a perfect crunch.
Each slice is a comforting symphony of flavors—the soft, buttery cake paired with the zing of fresh cranberries and the subtle warmth of cinnamon. Its inviting golden-brown top, speckled with vibrant cranberry bursts, makes it an ideal treat for morning gatherings or cozy afternoons.
What makes this coffee cake unforgettable? The perfect balance of textures—the buttery cake, the sweet-tart cranberries, and the crunchy, spiced topping. It’s a dessert that feels both indulgent and light, perfect for those who love a cake that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor.
This recipe brings together the best of fall flavors in a cake that’s as delightful to bake as it is to share. Let’s bake a Cranberry Coffee Cake that will add a festive touch to your next gathering and leave a lasting impression on everyone.
Cranberry Coffee Cake
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Fork for crumb topping
- Toothpick for doneness test
- 8- or 9-inch square baking pan
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup butter softened
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice about 1 lemon
- 2 eggs
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sour cream
- 6 oz fresh cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease an 8- or 9-inch square pan.
- Cream butter and sugar until fluffy, then mix in vanilla, lemon juice, and eggs.
- Combine flour and baking powder in a bowl.
- Add half to the wet ingredients, stir, then add sour cream and remaining dry ingredients.
- Mix until just combined.
- Fold in cranberries and pour batter into the pan.
- Mix flour, sugar, and melted butter with a fork for the crumb topping, then sprinkle over the batter.
- Bake for 42–46 minutes, checking with a toothpick for doneness.
- Cool before slicing.
Notes
- Substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt if desired.
- Use fresh or frozen cranberries (do not thaw frozen cranberries).
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the crumb topping for extra warmth.
Nutrition Facts:
Calories: 291kcal ll Carbs: 38g ll Fat: 14g ll Protein: 3g
Tips To Make Cranberry Coffee Cake Taste Better!
- Add Citrus Zest: Enhance the brightness by adding orange or lemon zest to the batter for a burst of citrus flavor that complements the cranberries.
- Use Brown Sugar in the Topping: Swap some or all of the granulated sugar in the crumb topping with brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
- Incorporate Warm Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the batter or topping for cozy, spiced undertones.