A Stunning Vegan Cranberry Upside-Down Cake for the Holidays

What kind of recipe is it?

The Vegan Cranberry Upside-Down Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully combines the tartness of cranberries with a moist, fluffy cake base.

This recipe caters to those who are vegan or looking for a dairy-free alternative, making it perfect for a wide range of dietary preferences. Its unique upside-down presentation creates an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering, while its seasonal flavor profile makes it ideal for holidays and special occasions.

Bake this cake to impress guests or enjoy a delicious treat that aligns with your values.

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Fresh cranberries	2 cups
Brown sugar	1 cup
All-purpose flour	1 ½ cups
Baking powder	2 teaspoons
Baking soda	½ teaspoon
Salt	¼ teaspoon
Plant-based milk (e.g., almond, soy, or oat)	1 cup
Vegetable oil	⅓ cup
Maple syrup or agave nectar	⅓ cup
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon	½ teaspoon
Optional: chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or pecans)	½ cup
Optional: powdered sugar (for dusting)	As desired

Notes:

Make sure the cranberries are fresh and not canned or dried for the best flavor.
You may adjust the type of plant-based milk to match your taste preferences.
If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can slightly increase the brown sugar or syrup.

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Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and position the oven rack in the center. Prepare a 23 cm (9-inch) round cake pan by greasing it lightly with vegetable oil or lining it with parchment paper.

2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of fresh cranberries and 1 cup of brown sugar. Stir until the cranberries are coated and set aside to macerate for about 10 minutes, allowing the cranberries to release some juices.

3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon until well combined.

4. In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of plant-based milk, ⅓ cup of vegetable oil, ⅓ cup of maple syrup (or agave nectar), and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until combined and smooth.

5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently just until combined. Don’t overmix, as this can result in a dense texture.

If using, fold in ½ cup of chopped nuts at this point.

6. Transfer the macerated cranberries along with their juice into the prepared cake pan, spreading them evenly across the bottom of the pan.

7. Pour the cake batter over the cranberries in the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Optional: Check that the edges are pulling slightly away from the pan, indicating doneness.

9. Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

Then, carefully invert it onto a serving plate or wire rack to let it cool completely, allowing the cranberries to settle on top.

10. Once the cake has cooled completely, dust with powdered sugar as desired before serving. Enjoy the cake warm or at room temperature.

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Variations

Citrus-Zested Cranberry Cake: Add the zest of 1 orange (or lemon) to the wet ingredients for a revitalizing citrus twist.
Nutty Maple-Almond Variation: Substitute the chopped nuts with ½ cup (50 g) of sliced almonds for a crunchy texture and additional flavor.
Gluten-Free Cranberry Cake: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour for a gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.
Chai-Spiced Upside-Down Cake: Replace the ground cinnamon with 1 teaspoon (5 g) of chai spice blend for an aromatic flavor profile.

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Tips on plating and presentation

How can you make your Vegan Cranberry Upside-Down Cake stand out on the dessert table?

I like to serve it on a vibrant plate that contrasts with the cake’s colors.

Adding fresh cranberries and mint leaves on top not only enhances its look but brings a fresh aroma, too.

Drizzling a little maple syrup gives it a lovely shiny finish.

Enjoy the presentation!

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

While pairing your Vegan Cranberry Upside-Down Cake with complementary dishes, consider serving it alongside a light, tangy salad, like arugula with citrus vinaigrette.

Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots, provide a savory contrast.

For a heartier option, try a quinoa pilaf with herbs and nuts.

These dishes enhance the cake’s flavors and create a lovely, balanced holiday spread.

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What drinks can I pair it with?

To elevate your enjoyment of the Vegan Cranberry Upside-Down Cake, pairing it with the right drinks can make all the difference.

I love serving it with a warm spiced apple cider or a chilled sparkling wine. Herbal teas, like chamomile or peppermint, also add a comforting touch.

Experiment and find what complements those tart cranberries perfectly—your guests will appreciate the thoughtful choices!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh Ones?

Absolutely, I often use frozen cranberries in my recipes! Just remember to thaw and drain them first. They’ll work wonderfully, adding that vibrant flavor and texture you need for a delicious dish.

How Do I Store Leftover Cranberry Upside-Down Cake?

I store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days. If I need it to last longer, I’ll refrigerate it, then enjoy it within a week for the best flavor.

Is This Cake Gluten-Free?

Yes, this cake can be gluten-free! I usually use gluten-free flour blends to make it tender and delicious. Just double-check all your ingredients to verify they’re gluten-free, and you’ll be all set!

How Long Does the Cake Last in the Fridge?

The cake lasts about five to seven days in the fridge if stored properly. I usually cover it tightly to keep it fresh, and it’s always a delightful treat throughout the week!

Can This Cake Be Made Ahead of Time?

Yes, I can make this cake ahead of time! It actually tastes even better after a day or two in the fridge. Just store it properly to keep it fresh and moist. Enjoy!