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Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Add the vanilla extract and orange zest (if using) and mix until combined.
Step 5: Combine with Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
Step 6: Fold in Cranberries
- Gently fold the cranberries into the batter. If using frozen cranberries, do not thaw them before adding to the batter. This will help prevent them from bleeding too much into the cake.
Step 7: Bake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and milk. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if necessary.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to soak in slightly for added moisture and flavor.
Serving and Storing
- Slice the cake and serve with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect holiday treat.
- Store the leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate it for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, freeze the cake (without glaze) for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Cranberry Pound Cake is the ultimate holiday dessert. It’s moist, flavorful, and bursting with festive colors and flavors that will put you in the Christmas spirit. Whether you’re baking it for your family or gifting it to someone special, this cake is sure to be a hit at your holiday celebrations.
So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and make this delicious pound cake the highlight of your festive season! 🎄🍰
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