There are cakes that are sweet and sky-high and carefully coated in scalloped buttercream that pairs perfectly with the tender crumb beneath. And then there are cakes that are so beautiful in their simplicity that they don’t need any frosting at all. This lovely little apple and cranberry cake is just that kind of cake. It’s moist but not dense, and sweet without being cloying, all backed by the subtle tartness of fresh cranberries. It’s a simple, easy one-bowl cake that’s festive enough for the holidays but right at home any time of year. We love it for its elegant simplicity, but mostly because it’s so very tasty!

It’s based on a French yogurt cake, which is a cake that is kind of genius. You can use the small yogurt tub to measure out the ingredients – one tub of oil, two tubs full of sugar, three of flour – and you mix it all up in one bowl. You can use any fruit or flavor you like, but this particular combination is one of our favorites.

It’s quick and easy enough to make every day (if you felt so inclined), and while it doesn’t necessarily need it, a dusting of powdered sugar adds a nice little extra touch of sweetness. It’s a cake we’ve made again and again in countless combinations. We hope you’ll do the same!