Introduction to Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
As the leaves begin to turn, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a home-baked treat to embrace the essence of fall. That’s where my Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake comes into play! Picture this: a moist, tender cake, infused with bright cranberries and sweet apples, all baked to golden perfection in one skillet. It’s a quick solution for busy days when time is tight but you still want to impress your family. Trust me, this delightful recipe not only pleases the palate, but it also turns your kitchen into a cozy haven filled with heartwarming aromas.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
One of the best things about this Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake is how easy it is to whip up! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s a time-saver for even the busiest of moms. Plus, the combination of tart cranberries and sweet apples creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s the kind of dessert that warms the heart and fills the belly, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients for Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake:
- Cranberries: Fresh or frozen, these little gems add a tart pop of flavor that beautifully balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Apples: I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart varieties. Peel and core them before dicing to ensure they blend seamlessly into the batter.
- All-purpose flour: This forms the foundation of your cake. It gives structure and helps the cake rise, making it fluffy and delicious.
- Baking powder: This ingredient acts as a leavening agent, helping your cake rise to heavenly heights during baking.
- Baking soda: Another crucial leavening agent that contributes to the cake’s lightness, especially when paired with acidic ingredients like yogurt or cranberries.
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, ensuring your cake doesn’t taste overly sweet.
- Cinnamon: This warm spice brings a cozy flavor, perfect for fall. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste!
- Unsalted butter: Using melted butter adds richness and moisture, creating a tender cake. Let it cool slightly before mixing it in!
- Granulated sugar: This sweetener is essential for balance—sweetening the cake while also contributing to its texture.
- Eggs: They bind the ingredients together and provide moisture and structure, ensuring a cohesive cake.
- Vanilla extract: One of the best ways to add depth to the flavor profile of your cake. A little sweetness goes a long way!
- Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream: This adds moisture and a slight tang, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of the cake.
- Coarse sugar (optional): Sprinkling some on top before baking gives your cake a lovely crunchy, sweet crust.
- Extra ground cinnamon (optional): A sprinkle on top for that extra flavor boost; it’s all about personal preference!
For the specific quantities of each ingredient, check the bottom of the article—they’re also available for printing!
How to Make Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
Now comes the exciting part—making our delightful Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake! With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be on your way to baking perfection in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Skillet
First off, preheating your oven to 350°F is crucial for optimal baking results.
While it warms up, grab a 10-inch ovenproof skillet—cast iron works wonders for flavor.
Make sure to grease the skillet thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray. This simple step can make all the difference in the cake’s release later on.
Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients Together
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
The flour is the backbone, while baking powder and baking soda are your leavening agents that will lift the cake. Salt enhances flavor and keeps the sweetness balanced. Cinnamon? It brings the cozy fall vibes!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Next, in a large mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter with granulated sugar until smooth.
Add the eggs one by one, whisking well after each addition. This helps create a better texture!
Stir in the vanilla extract and Greek yogurt (or sour cream). This not only adds moisture but also richness that your cake will benefit from.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Now it’s time to fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients.
Be gentle! Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. You want to see a few flour streaks remaining when you stop mixing; it’ll come together in a jiffy!
Step 5: Fold in Apples and Cranberries
Scoop those diced apples and fresh cranberries into the batter, and gently fold them in.
The fruit adds not just incredible moisture but also bursts of flavor in every bite, creating a delightful contrast with the cake’s sweetness.
Step 6: Pour Batter into Skillet
Time to pour the batter into your prepared skillet!
Spread it evenly, using a spatula to ensure even baking. An even layer makes for a beautifully risen cake.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Slide the skillet into the oven and bake for 38 to 42 minutes.
Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes; toward the end, it’s essential to test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean!
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let your gorgeous cake cool in the skillet for at least 15 minutes.
This cooling time allows the flavors to develop and makes slicing easier. You can serve it warm or let it come to room temperature for a more pronounced taste!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor, but frozen work just as well.
- Room temperature ingredients, especially eggs and yogurt, help create a smoother batter.
- Don’t overmix when combining the batter—this keeps your cake light and fluffy!
- Let the cake cool in the skillet for that perfect, tender texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Equipment Needed for Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
- 10-inch ovenproof skillet: A cast iron skillet is ideal for even baking.
- Mixing bowls: Use at least two—one for dry and one for wet ingredients.
- Whisk: Essential for combining your ingredients smoothly.
- Spatula: Perfect for folding in your fruits and spreading batter evenly.
- Cooling rack: Optional, but great for cooling the cake evenly!
Variations on Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
- Nutty Twist: Add a half cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the cake.
- Dried Fruits: Swap out some cranberries for raisins or diced dried apricots to change up the flavor.
- Spice It Up: Introduce additional spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm, festive kick that complements fall flavors.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free cake!
- Vegan Friendly: Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use plant-based yogurt for a delicious vegan treat.
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
- Iced Tea or Apple Cider: A refreshing glass complements the warm flavors of the cake perfectly.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds richness and a creamy texture.
- Garnish: Dust with powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a beautiful presentation.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream creates a warm and cold contrast.
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with slices of apples or pears for a delightful touch!
FAQs about Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
Curious about this delicious Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake? Here are some common questions answered to help you on your baking adventure!
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh? Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just fine and save time—just toss them in directly from the freezer.
How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, but I doubt they’ll last that long!
Can I make this cake in advance? Yes! You can bake it a day ahead and store it. Just make sure to reheat it gently in the oven before serving; it tastes best warm!
What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet? No worries! Any ovenproof skillet will work. Just ensure it’s well-greased for perfect release.
Can I add other fruits to the recipe? Definitely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like pears or even blueberries to change things up. The options are endless!
Final Thoughts on Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
There’s something truly special about gathering around the table, sharing slices of my Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake with family and friends. The combination of sweet apples and tart cranberries creates a harmonious melody of flavors that sings of fall joy. It’s a comforting dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also warms your heart. Plus, the ease of making it in just one skillet means more time spent enjoying moments that truly matter. With every slice you serve, you’re not just offering cake; you’re sharing love and warmth straight from your kitchen!
Print
Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 2 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful fall recipe featuring a moist cake made with fresh cranberries and apples, baked in a skillet.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tablespoons coarse sugar (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 10-inch ovenproof skillet with butter or nonstick spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
- Fold in the diced apples and cranberries until evenly distributed.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared skillet. Optionally, mix coarse sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle on top.
- Bake for 38 to 42 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the skillet for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Using a cast iron skillet enhances the flavor and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 42 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
