Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake

The aroma of warm spices fills the kitchen, and memories flood back of family gatherings during the holidays. Every year, as summer fades and the chill of autumn begins to set in, my grandmother would turn to her recipe box and pull out her favorite treats. Among the delightful array of cookies and breads, one dish always stood out: her stunning Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake. With its tart cranberries and sweet apples nestled in a sumptuous buttery cake, it became a beloved tradition in our household. I can still hear the laughter and chatter as we gathered around the table, forks in hand, ready to savor this seasonal masterpiece. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you how to make this delectable dessert—a cake that perfectly balances sweet and tart notes, transcending simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 15 minutes
• Active Cooking: 30-35 minutes
• Total Duration: 50 minutes
• Portion Size: 8 servings
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: 220 calories
• Protein: 2g
• Carbs: 34g
• Fats: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 12g
• Sodium: 120mg

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake

This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors! The tartness of fresh cranberries dances beautifully with the sweetness of juicy apples, creating a cake that is moist yet sturdy, light yet deeply satisfying. It’s incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip it up for family dinners, impromptu gatherings, or simply to enjoy with your favorite cup of tea. Best of all, it’s baked in a skillet—which means it has that rustic charm and a crispy edge that will have everyone reaching for a second slice.

The Complete Cooking Journey

In this culinary adventure, you’ll first prepare the fresh fruits, enhancing their natural flavors with a sprinkle of sugar. While the fruits rest, we’ll whip up a simple cake batter that brings the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. The blending of these two components results in a comforting yet exciting dessert that flaunts the best of fall’s produce. Let’s dive into the details and create something incredible!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 1 cup chopped apples
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a skillet or oven-safe pan to prepare for your delicious cake.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruit

In a large bowl, mix together the fresh cranberries, chopped apples, and 1/4 cup of the sugar. Set this mixture aside, allowing the flavors to meld and the sugars to draw out the juices from the fruits.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the melted butter, remaining sugar, and brown sugar. Mix well until fully combined and smooth.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs

Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Stir until everything is well-combined and smooth, creating a rich base for your cake.

Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This will ensure even distribution of the leaveners and spice throughout your cake.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want to maintain the tenderness of the cake!

Step 7: Fold in the Fruits

Gently fold in the cranberry-apple mixture, distributing the fruits evenly throughout the batter.

Step 8: Pour and Spread

Pour the batter into the prepared skillet, spreading it evenly with a spatula for an even bake.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly puffed.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to slice. Enjoy every delightful bite of your Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it even further by pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an added touch of warmth, a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped nuts can turn it into a dessert worthy of any gathering!

Storage & Leftovers Guide

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven for a couple of minutes.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

• For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of orange juice or a teaspoon of orange zest to the fruit mixture.
• The cake can be made ahead of time and served warm for an impressive dessert at parties.
• If fresh cranberries are out of season, consider using frozen ones—just do not thaw them before adding to the batter.

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Swap the cranberries for blueberries or mixed berries for a different twist. You could also substitute the apples for pears or even add nuts for some crunch. Feel free to experiment with spices, too—nutmeg or ginger can add a wonderful dimension.

Reader Questions & Solutions

• Can I use other fruits instead of cranberries?
  Yes, blueberries or raspberries work well too. Just adapt the sugar to taste, especially if the new fruits are sweeter!

• What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?
  Any oven-safe baking dish will do! Just ensure it’s greased well for easy serving.

• How can I make this cake gluten-free?
  Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to enjoy this cake without gluten.

• Can I make this cake ahead of time?
  Absolutely! Bake it a day or two in advance, and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before serving, or warm it slightly in the oven.

• How do I know if it’s done baking?
  Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Wrapping Up

With its comforting blend of flavors and delightful texture, this Cranberry Apple Skillet Cake is guaranteed to warm your heart and home. Whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this easy dessert has your back. Remember, cooking is about creating memories and sharing joy—so gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let the sweet aromas of this cake fill your kitchen. Happy baking!

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