Easy Cranberry Cake

This is perfect for the busy holiday season as it is just as good plain with your morning coffee as it is with a bit of whipped cream for a traditional dessert.

3 large eggs, room temperature
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cups butter (1 1/2 sticks) completely softened
1 tsp vanilla
1/4 tsp almond extract (optional)
2 cups all-purpose flour
12 ounces fresh cranberries

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9x13 pan with cooking spray (or butter lightly.)
  2. In a stand mixer, beat the eggs and the sugar until thickened and light in color, about 5-7 minutes. The eggs are the leavening; the mixture should double in size.
  3. Next add the softened butter, vanilla, and almond extract (if using). Mix for two more minutes.
  4. Stir in the flour until just combined. Gently add the cranberries and stir to distribute. The mixture will be thick.
  5. Transfer to the prepared 9x13 pan, spread the batter to the edges as well as you can. It will fill in as it bakes. Bake for 40-45 minutes. The top will be lightly browned and glossy. Cool completely before cutting.