Name: Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake: Festive and Irresistibly Delicious
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 65 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 2 cups Granulated Sugar; 4 large Eggs (room temperature); 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (pure); 3 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 tablespoon Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt); 2 cups Fresh/Frozen Cranberries (if frozen, toss in flour); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (or mascarpone); 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 2 tablespoons Milk (adjust for consistency)

The scent of baking wafted through the air, transporting me to cherished holiday gatherings of my childhood. Whenever the festivities kicked off, the Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake was the star attraction, with its buttery vanilla base paired perfectly with tart cranberries and a luscious cream cheese filling. This cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a canvas for creating sweet memories and a heartwarming centerpiece for your holiday table. With only a handful of ingredients and simple steps, it’s easy to prepare, ensuring you’ll impress friends and family without the fuss. Plus, it’s a vibrant addition to festive brunches or a thoughtful homemade gift for those you love. Curious to see how this cake can elevate your holiday celebrations? Let’s dive in!

Why is this cake a holiday favorite?

Deliciously Festive: This Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake beautifully captures the essence of the holiday season with its vibrant colors and rich flavors.

Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time—perfect for busy holiday schedules!

Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of tart cranberries and creamy cheese creates a luscious layer of taste that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Perfect for Gifting: Not only is it a delightful treat for your festive table, but it also makes a thoughtful, homemade gift for friends and family.

Versatile Additions: Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or substituting cranberries with berries for a twist—your creativity knows no bounds!

Check out our Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake if you’re looking for more holiday-inspired treats!

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Base
• Unsalted Butter – This adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and contributes to its structure.
• Eggs – Provides binding and richness; use room temperature eggs for better incorporation.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhance flavor with pure vanilla extract for a delightful aroma.
• All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of the cake; measure accurately for the desired texture.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise; always check for freshness.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavors.
• Sour Cream – Adds moisture and a subtle tang; Greek yogurt can be a great alternative.

For the Fruity Filling
• Fresh/Frozen Cranberries – Provides a burst of tartness; if frozen, toss in flour to prevent sinking.
• Cream Cheese – Creates a smooth, creamy filling; mascarpone can be used for a lighter alternative.

For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and adds a beautiful finish to the cake.
• Milk – Adjusts the consistency of the glaze for an ideal drizzle.

Get ready to bake this Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake and create unforgettable memories this holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab a 9×5-inch loaf pan and generously grease it with unsalted butter or cooking spray. Lightly flour the pan to ensure your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake releases easily after baking, creating a beautiful finish.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3 minutes. This step is crucial as the air incorporated will help your cake rise beautifully in the oven.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, carefully add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition to ensure smooth integration. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined. The rich flavor of the vanilla will enhance the overall taste of your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This dry mixture provides the structure of the cake. Once combined, it ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and salt, crucial for a perfectly baked pound cake.

Step 5: Mix in the Sour Cream and Flour
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start and finish with the flour mixture, mixing just until will all ingredients are incorporated. This method keeps the cake light and airy, a hallmark of a great Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake.

Step 6: Fold in the Cranberries
Toss the fresh or frozen cranberries in a tablespoon of flour to prevent them from sinking in the batter. Gently fold the cranberries into the cake batter until evenly distributed. This step adds bursts of tartness in every slice, infusing your cake with holiday flavor.

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a clean mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese, powdered sugar, egg yolk, and a splash of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This luscious cream cheese filling offers a delightful contrast to the sweet cranberry cake, ensuring each bite is as delightful as it is festive.

Step 8: Layer the Batter
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Next, layer the cream cheese mixture over the batter, followed by the remaining cake batter. Use a spatula to smooth the top, creating a beautiful layered effect that showcases the fillings.

Step 9: Bake the Cake
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 65 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is finished baking. Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes.

Step 10: Cool the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This allows it to set a bit before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling on a rack will help your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake retain its lovely texture and prevent it from becoming soggy.

Step 11: Make the Glaze
While the cake cools, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, milk, and a splash of vanilla extract in a small bowl. Adjust the milk as needed to achieve your desired drizzle consistency. This glaze is the finishing touch that adds both sweetness and charm to your festive pound cake.

Step 12: Drizzle and Serve
Once the cake has completely cooled, drizzle the sweet glaze over the top. Allow it to set for a few minutes before slicing. Your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is now ready to be served, perfect for holiday gatherings, brunch, or simply enjoying with loved ones!

Expert Tips for Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Perfect Butter: Ensure the butter is adequately softened; cold butter won’t blend well, which may lead to a dense cake.
Batter Care: Avoid overmixing the batter after adding flour; this keeps your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake light and fluffy.
Toothpick Test: Use a toothpick to check doneness, inserting it into the thickest part of the cake—not too close to the pan—to avoid false readings.
Cranberry Prep: If using frozen cranberries, always toss them in flour before folding into the batter to prevent sinking.
Zesty Twist: For an extra festive kick, consider adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter; it elevates the flavor profile significantly!

What to Serve with Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

The delightful blend of flavors in this rich pound cake opens the door to countless pairings that elevate your meal experience.

Warm Spiced Cider: The sweet and warm notes complement the tart cranberries, creating a cozy beverage perfect for any festive gathering.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a smooth, creamy texture, enhancing each slice’s indulgent taste.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Melting on a warm piece, the ice cream’s sweetness balances the cake’s tartness, creating a delicious contrast.
Herbed Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette adds a nice contrast to the cake, making for a delightful plate.
Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of homemade granola on top creates a crunchy texture, adding an intriguing dimension to the cake’s softness.
Coffee or Tea: Rich coffee or a fragrant herbal tea not only enhances the flavors but also provides a warming experience during cold weather.
Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of chocolate glaze or melted dark chocolate can impart a rich, decadent touch, treating your taste buds to a sweet surprise.
Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses, such as brie or sharp cheddar, to bring out the cake’s flavors and offer a gourmet touch to your dessert table.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: The seasonal flavors of this drink perfectly align with the festive spirit of the cake, making it a wonderful pairing during the holidays.
Cranberry Juice Cocktail: The fruitiness enhances the cake’s tart notes, creating a refreshing duet that enhances your festive spread.

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake Variations

Feel free to customize this delightful cake to suit your taste and occasion, creating your own festive masterpiece!

Berry Twist: Substitute fresh cranberries with blueberries or raspberries for a delicious berry-infused version. The vibrant colors will make your cake even more eye-catching and unique.
Lighter Cream Filling: Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter filling that’s just as creamy but with a lower fat content. It’s a subtle change that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a delightful texture contrast. The crunch of the nuts pairs beautifully with the cake’s softness, adding a delicious depth.
Citrus Zest: Enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter. This brightens the cake and gives it a refreshing zing, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Spiced Version: Infuse your cake with warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. A teaspoon of cinnamon will add comforting holiday vibes and an irresistible aroma while baking.
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate the glaze by adding melted chocolate to it for a rich, decadent finish. A chocolatey frosting pairs surprisingly well with tart cranberries in this festive cake.
Less Sugar: Reduce the sugar in the cake slightly for a less sweet version, allowing the natural tartness of cranberries to shine through even more.
Mini Loaf Cakes: Bake the batter in mini loaf pans for individual servings—perfect for gifting or serving at brunch! Just adjust the baking time for these smaller cakes, and enjoy the personal touch they bring.

For more inspiration, you might also enjoy our festive Cherry Pistachio Cheesecake or try the delicious Blackberry Lemon Cheesecake Bites for a delightful treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the cake base and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For maximum freshness, hold off on adding the cranberries until just before baking. If you’ve already made the cake, it can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or you can refrigerate it for longer storage. To serve, simply allow it to come to room temperature, drizzle the glaze, and enjoy a deliciously festive dessert that tastes just as good as when made fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and moist, perfect for enjoying at a leisurely pace.

Refrigerator: For extended freshness, place the unglazed cake in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors.

Freezer: If you want to save it for later, wrap the unglazed cake in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to retain its delicious taste and texture.

Reheating: To enjoy leftovers warm, slice the cake and heat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. This will bring back that fresh-baked warmth.

Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting cranberries?
When choosing cranberries, select fresh ones that are bright and firm—avoid any that are soft or have dark spots all over, as these may be past their prime. If you’re using frozen cranberries, make sure they are free from ice crystals and stick together; tossing them in a bit of flour before adding to the batter will prevent sinking.

How should I store my leftover Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh for leisurely snacking! For longer-term storage, you can refrigerate the unglazed cake for up to a week, ensuring it’s well-wrapped to maintain moisture and flavor.

Can I freeze the Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, ensuring no sections are exposed to air. This will allow it to be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before enjoying.

What if my cake sinks in the middle?
If your Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake sinks in the middle, it’s often due to underbaking or overmixing the batter. To avoid this, ensure you check for doneness with a toothpick, inserting it at the thickest part of the cake—but not too close to the pan. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter after adding flour, as this could create dense results.

Is this recipe suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions?
While the Cranberry Cream Cheese Pound Cake is vegetarian-friendly, those with dairy allergies should consider substitutes. You can use dairy-free cream cheese and milk alternatives to make a version that accommodates lactose sensitivities. Just be sure to check labels to ensure they’re free from any offending ingredients.