- Pecans (crispy and nutty, enhancing the texture)
- All-purpose flour (main ingredient for structure)
- Granulated sugar (sweetens the cake evenly)
- Baking powder (essential leavening agent)
- Salt (balances sweetness and enhances flavors)
- Eggs (provides moisture and binding)
- Buttermilk (adds richness and a tender crumb)
- Vegetable oil (moisturizing and enhancing flavor)
- Vanilla extract (for added depth of taste)
- Coffee (boosts the coffee flavor, can be decaf for sensitivity)
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Steps
### Cranberry Pecan Coffee Cake Recipe: A Perfect Baking Project
#### Introduction:
Delight your taste buds with this luscious cranberry pecan coffee cake! This recipe combines the tangy sweetness of dried cranberries with the nutty crunch of pecans, all perfectly complemented by a rich and buttery cake. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering or just craving something warm and comforting, this cake is sure to satisfy.
#### Ingredients:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk (optional)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ⅓ cup chopped pecans
#### Equipment:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or spoon for mixing
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
### Step-by-Step Guide:
1. **Preheat Your Oven:**
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or non-stick spray.
2. **Prepare the Dry Ingredients:**
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar:**
- Using an electric mixer or a large spoon, beat the softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture. Beat for another 2-3 minutes until well combined.
4. **Mix in Dry Ingredients:**
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter-sugar mixture in three parts, alternating with milk if needed (start and end with flour). Mix until just combined.
- Do not overmix to avoid a tough cake texture.
5. **Add Cranberries and Pecans:**
- Fold in the dried cranberries and chopped pecans gently into the batter to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the cake mixture.
6. **Bake the Cake:**
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:**
- Once cooled, serve slices of your cranberry pecan coffee cake warm with a cup of coffee or tea.
### Tips for Perfect Results:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature; this helps in achieving the right texture.
- Do not overbake to prevent the cake from becoming dry. Check its doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean when done.
- For an extra touch, you can drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cake.
#### Conclusion:
This cranberry pecan coffee cake is not only delicious but also easy to make. Perfect for sharing or enjoying on its own, this recipe will become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy crafting this delightful treat!