The Kroger Cranberry Celebration Recipe is a festive favorite that brings a burst of tart and sweet flavors to any holiday table. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in this dish highlights the vibrant taste of fresh cranberries combined with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.
We love how easy it is to whip up this recipe while still impressing guests with its rich texture and bright color. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for a quick seasonal treat this cranberry celebration is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Let’s dive into making this delicious dish that captures the spirit of the season with every bite. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of holiday cheer to your meals and enjoy the natural goodness of cranberries.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Kroger Cranberry Celebration, we carefully select ingredients that bring out the best in fresh cranberries. These components balance tartness with sweetness and texture, ensuring a festive and flavorful dish worth sharing.
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
The dry ingredients provide structure and warm spice notes that complement the bright cranberries beautifully.
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed recommended)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
These wet ingredients contribute moisture and a subtle citrus flavor enhancing the overall richness of the celebration recipe.
Optional Garnishes
- 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
- Zest of one orange
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for decoration
| Ingredient Category | Key Components | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Ingredients | Flour, sugar, baking soda, spices | Structure and flavor balance |
| Wet Ingredients | Orange juice, oil, eggs, vanilla | Moisture and citrus infusion |
| Optional Garnishes | Nuts, orange zest, powdered sugar | Texture, color, and festive touch |
Equipment Needed
To make the Kroger Cranberry Celebration Recipe flawlessly, we rely on specific tools that ensure precision and ease throughout the process. Having the right equipment at hand will help us achieve the vibrant color, perfect texture, and balanced flavor this dish is known for.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | For combining dry and wet ingredients |
| Measuring cups and spoons | To measure ingredients accurately |
| Whisk or electric mixer | To blend wet and dry components smoothly |
| Citrus juicer | To extract fresh orange juice |
| Baking pan (8×8 inch or similar) | For baking the cranberry mixture |
| Parchment paper or non-stick spray | To prevent sticking and ensure easy removal |
| Cooling rack | To cool the baked cranberry dish evenly |
| Knife and cutting board | For chopping optional garnishes like nuts |
First, we prepare our mixing bowls to separate dry and wet ingredients. Accurate measurements using measuring cups and spoons are essential—the balance of tart, sweet, and spice depends on precision.
Using a whisk or electric mixer lets us combine the ingredients thoroughly, creating a uniform batter. We highly recommend using a citrus juicer for the freshly squeezed orange juice to maximize juice yield and maintain bright citrus notes.
For baking, an 8×8 inch pan gives an ideal thickness to the cranberry celebration dish allowing it to cook evenly without burning. We line the pan with parchment paper or use a non-stick spray to prevent adherence and simplify cleanup.
After baking, placing the dish on a cooling rack ensures air circulation so our dessert sets perfectly without becoming soggy.
Finally, if we choose to add garnishes like toasted pecans or fresh rosemary sprigs, a sharp knife and cutting board are indispensable for prepping these finishing touches that elevate the dish’s festive look and texture.
“Perfect equipment leads to perfect results.” By assembling these tools before we start, we create an efficient workflow that makes the Kroger Cranberry Celebration as enjoyable to prepare as it is to eat.
Prep Work
Before we begin crafting our Kroger Cranberry Celebration Recipe, setting up a smooth workflow is crucial. Proper prep work ensures every ingredient shines and our baking process flows effortlessly.
Preparing the Cranberries
To highlight the cranberry’s vibrant tartness, we start by rinsing fresh cranberries under cold water. Pick through them carefully to remove any stems or bruised berries. For best texture, pat the cranberries dry with a clean towel. This prevents unwanted moisture from diluting our batter, keeping the flavor rich and concentrated.
Measuring Ingredients
Accurate measurements are the backbone of our Cranberry Celebration success. Using precise tools not only balances flavors but also guarantees consistent results. We recommend measuring dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup | Level off with a knife for accuracy |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 ½ cups | Sifted to remove lumps |
| Baking Soda | 1 teaspoon | Fresh for optimal rising |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon | Table salt or kosher salt approved |
| Ground Cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | Adds warm spice notes |
| Nutmeg | ½ teaspoon | Freshly grated preferred |
| Fresh Cranberries | 2 cups | Washed and dried as described |
| Orange Juice | ¾ cup (freshly squeezed) | Use a citrus juicer for maximum yield |
| Vegetable Oil | ½ cup | Neutral oil like canola or sunflower |
| Eggs | 2 large | Room temperature |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon | Pure vanilla enhances overall flavor |
We prepare garnishes such as chopped toasted pecans, orange zest, and fresh rosemary while measuring ingredients. These add texture, fragrance, and festive color right after baking.
Preheating the Oven
To bake this holiday cranberry treat to perfection, preheat our oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures even cooking and a beautiful golden crust. Place the oven rack in the middle position for optimal heat circulation. Allow the oven to reach full temperature before inserting our baking pan lined with parchment paper or sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. This step prevents sticking and promotes easy removal of our celebration cake.
Directions
Follow these clear steps to craft the Kroger Cranberry Celebration recipe perfectly. Precision and care during each stage ensure a festive and flavorful result.
Mixing the Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
- In another bowl, whisk the wet ingredients:
- ¾ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring gently but consistently, until you form a smooth batter with no lumps.
Folding in the Cranberries
- Measure 1 ½ cups of fresh, rinsed, and dried cranberries.
- Using a spatula, gently fold the cranberries into the batter.
- Take care not to overmix; this preserves the texture of the cranberries and prevents them from breaking down.
Baking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it well with non-stick spray.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even thickness.
- Place the pan on the center oven rack and bake for 35 to 40 minutes.
- Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
| Step | Detail | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | Set to 350°F (175°C) | 350°F/175°C | – |
| Baking time | Bake until center is cooked | 350°F/175°C | 35-40 mins |
| Doneness check | Toothpick test | – | – |
- Remove the pan from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the cake to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
By following these steps, we ensure that our Kroger Cranberry Celebration maintains its perfect balance of tart, sweet, and spice with a beautiful festive presentation.
Serving Suggestions
To truly elevate our Kroger Cranberry Celebration, thoughtful serving ideas can make a lasting impression. Here are our top recommendations to present and pair this festive dish perfectly.
Plating Ideas
- Serve portions of the Kroger Cranberry Celebration warm or at room temperature on elegant dessert plates to highlight its vibrant cranberry texture and rich golden crust.
- Garnish each slice with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of orange zest to enhance the citrus notes and add visual appeal.
- Add a few chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top for a pleasing crunch that contrasts with the tender crumb.
- For a seasonal touch, place a fresh rosemary sprig alongside each serving to infuse subtle pine aroma and a festive look.
- Arrange slices alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cinnamon-spiced cream to add creamy sweetness and balance the tart cranberries.
Beverage Pairings
Pairing beverages thoughtfully complements the tart and spiced flavors of the Kroger Cranberry Celebration. We recommend:
| Beverage Type | Suggested Options | Flavor Match Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tea | Earl Grey, Chamomile, Spiced Apple Tea | Light, aromatic notes to balance tartness |
| Coffee | Medium roast, Espresso with cinnamon sprinkle | Rich warmth that enhances spice and sweetness |
| Wine | Riesling, Sparkling Rosé, Brachetto d’Acqui | Fruity acidity and bubbles complement cranberries |
| Cocktails | Cranberry Moscow Mule, Orange Gin Fizz | Bright citrus and spice echo recipe flavors |
| Non-Alcoholic | Freshly squeezed orange juice, Sparkling water with lime | Refreshing acidity counterbalances richness |
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To keep our Kroger Cranberry Celebration fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Here’s how we recommend storing and making this festive dessert ahead of time:
Refrigeration
- Allow the baked cranberry cake to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to preserve freshness and texture.
- When ready to serve, let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes for optimal flavor.
Freezing
- For longer storage, freeze the cake after it has fully cooled.
- Wrap each portion individually in plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Place wrapped portions in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months while maintaining taste and quality.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- We can prepare the batter a day in advance and keep it refrigerated in a covered bowl.
- Stir gently before pouring into the baking pan to redistribute any settled ingredients.
- Bake the next day, adding 2-3 additional minutes to the baking time if the batter is chilled.
- Alternatively, bake the dessert ahead and store as above for a stress-free holiday presentation.
Quick Reference Storage Guide
| Storage Method | Preparation Steps | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Cool completely, wrap airtight | Up to 4 days | Bring to room temp before serving |
| Freezing | Cool, wrap tightly in plastic & foil, freeze | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in fridge |
| Make-Ahead Batter | Mix batter, refrigerate covered | 1 day max | Stir before baking, add 2-3 min bake time |
By following these Storage and Make-Ahead Tips, we ensure our Kroger Cranberry Celebration stays moist, flavorful, and ready to delight at any event or cozy night in.
Conclusion
The Kroger Cranberry Celebration Recipe is a wonderful way to bring festive flavor and warmth to any occasion. Its balanced blend of tart cranberries and cozy spices makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s both simple and impressive.
With the right preparation and attention to detail, this recipe fits seamlessly into our holiday traditions or any time we want a comforting treat. We’re confident it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen just as it has in ours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in the Kroger Cranberry Celebration recipe?
The recipe uses fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, orange juice, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
How do I prepare the cranberries for this recipe?
Rinse the cranberries, remove any stems or bruised ones, then pat them dry to keep their flavor concentrated.
What baking equipment do I need for this recipe?
You’ll need mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a whisk or electric mixer, a citrus juicer, an 8×8 inch baking pan, parchment paper or non-stick spray, a cooling rack, and a knife with a cutting board.
At what temperature and for how long should I bake the Kroger Cranberry Celebration?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cake for 35 to 40 minutes. Use a toothpick test to check if it’s done.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, the batter can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just adjust the baking time slightly if using chilled batter.
How should I store leftover Kroger Cranberry Celebration?
Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months using wrapping methods that prevent freezer burn.
What are some recommended garnishes for this dessert?
Try powdered sugar, orange zest, chopped toasted pecans or walnuts, and fresh rosemary sprigs to add texture, color, and festive flair.
What drinks pair well with the Kroger Cranberry Celebration?
Complement the dish with Earl Grey tea, medium roast coffee, Riesling wine, or refreshing non-alcoholic beverages.
Is this recipe suitable for holiday gatherings?
Yes, it’s ideal for holidays or cozy nights, thanks to its festive colors, rich texture, and balanced tart and sweet flavors.
How do I ensure the cake doesn’t stick to the pan?
Line your baking pan with parchment paper or use non-stick spray before adding the batter for easy removal after baking.