Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cubed and softened (236g)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup whole milk, room temperature (80mL)
Dry Ingredients
- 2⅔ cups granulated sugar (534g)
- 2¾ cups + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, divided (345g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Additional 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, for topping)
Fruit
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries (340g) (can substitute frozen)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or baking spray and optionally line it with parchment paper to facilitate easier removal and serving.
- Beat Eggs and Sugar: Using a stand mixer with a whisk attachment or a handheld electric mixer, beat the 4 eggs and 2⅔ cups sugar on medium speed for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture becomes pale yellow, nearly doubles in volume, and forms thick ribbons when drizzled.
- Add Butter, Vanilla, and Salt: Add the softened butter, vanilla extract, and salt to the egg and sugar mixture. Beat on medium speed for 1 to 2 minutes until combined. The batter may appear curdled at this stage but will smooth out after adding the flour.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2¾ cups flour and baking powder until evenly mixed.
- Fold in Flour and Milk: Gently fold half of the flour mixture into the batter. Stir in the milk gently, then fold in the remaining flour mixture until just combined.
- Prepare Cranberries: Toss the cranberries with the remaining 2 tablespoons of flour to prevent sinking and bursting, then gently fold them into the batter with 5 to 6 folds to avoid streaking the batter.
- Transfer to Pan and Bake: Dollop the batter evenly into the prepared pan and spread gently to form an even layer. Optionally, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of additional granulated sugar on top for a slight crunch and sweetness.
- Bake: Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving. This ensures clean cuts and the cake sets perfectly.
Notes
- You can use frozen cranberries if fresh are not available; do not thaw them before adding to the batter.
- Line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal of the cake.
- Be careful when folding the cranberries to avoid bursting, which can streak the batter.
- Sprinkling sugar on top before baking adds a subtle crunch and sweetness.
- The cake is best served at room temperature and can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American