Deliciously Moist Cranberry Orange Cake Recipe Unveiled

When winter rolls аround you might want somеthing that tastes bright and tart , so here’s a simple Cranberry Orange Cake for you to try . This cake brings ruby red cranberries and fresh oranges together in one soft bаke . It was a favorite in old American homes for Thanks giving and Christmas and it still feels just right for those days . The two flavors balance each other—cranberries add a tangy kick and oranges add sweet zip , making each bite pop.

This guide will show you how to whip up your own Cranberry Orange Cake step by step . You’ll get a clear recipe, easy tips, and ideas for swaps if you have diet needs . We’ll even cover some health perks of the main ingredients and how to fix common probs if things go sideways . By the end you’ll know exactly how to make a cake that’s both yummy and pretty , perfect for sharing .

What is Cranberry Orange Cake?

Cranberry Orange Cake is a cаke that looks super festive . You’ll see a golden brown top with little red cranberry spots and orange zest specks inside . It’s soft and moist , not too crumbly but still melts in your mouth . When you cut it , bright berries peek out of the slice and it looks just as good as it tastes.

The flavor is a mix of sweet and tart . Fresh cranberries give a zingy sharp punch while sugar and butter bring in the sweet side . Add a splash of orange juice and some grated peel and the cake feels extra fresh and citrusy . Together they make a taste that’s both lively and comforting , great for holiday tables or just a snack .

This cake works for lots of occasions . You can serve it at Thanksgiving , Christmas , or even a Sunday brunch . It also is nice with a hot cup of tea or coffee in the afternoon . No matter when you slice it , it’s an easy crowd-pleaser.

Health Benefits of Cranberries and Oranges

Cranberries and oranges are not just tasty , they have good stuff in them too . Cranberries are loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants that help your body fight stains and might help with urinary tract health .

Oranges are great for hydration because they’re mostly water . They give you fiber that helps your tummy feel good and more vitamin C that helps your skin and immune system .

Put them together and you get a little nutrient boost in each bite . The antioxidants from cranberries team up with the immune power of oranges , so you can enjoy a treat and feel less guilty .

Key Ingredients

To nail this cake you need good quality basics . Here’s what you’ll use :

• Flour: All-purpose flour gives structure .
• Sugar: Granulated sugar for sweetness . You can cut back or swіtch to honey or maple syrup.
• Cranberries: Fresh or frozen for a tart bite . Dried works too if you like it sweeter.
• Oranges: Juice and zest bring that bright citrus zing .
• Eggs: They bind everything and help the cake stay moist .
• Baking Powder & Soda: These make it rise nice and fluffy .
• Butter or Oil: Butter adds rich flavor , oil makes it tender .

If you need gluten-free swap flour for a gluten-free mix . For dairy-free use plant-based butter or oil .

Detailed Recipe for Cranberry Orange Cake

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

Directions

1. Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease and flour a 9-inch round pan .
2. Dry Mix: In a big bowl whisk flour, sugar, baking powder and soda .
3. Wet Mix: In another bowl beat eggs, melted butter, orange juice and zest .
4. Combine: Pour wet into dry and stir until just mixed . Avoid overmixing or cake gets tough .
5. Add Berries: Fold in cranberries gently .
6. Bake: Pour batter into pan and bake 30–35 mins . A toothpick should come out clean .
7. Cool: Let cake rest in pan 10 mins then move to rack to cool totally .
8. Serve: Dust with powdered sugar or leave plain .

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cake

• Even Bake: Put cake in center of oven and rotate after half time .
• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight box . Room temp for 3 days or fridge for a week .

Variations of Cranberry Orange Cake

Baking is more fun when you mix things up . Here are some twists :

• Cupcakes or Loaf: Use same batter in muffin tins or loaf pan .
• Extra Flavors: A dash of almond extract , chopped nuts or choc chips add flair .
• Frosting: Cream cheese frosting or a simple orange glaze works great .

Serving Suggestions

Make your cake moment even better with these ideas :

• Pairings: A hot mug of tea or coffee fits perfectly . Fruit salad on the side adds freshness .
• Occasions: Holidays, family brunch, or a cozy breakfast .
• Look Pretty: Sprinkle powdered sugar or top with extra cranberries . Serve on a nice plate .

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even simple cakes can have tech probs . Here’s how to fix ’em :

• Not Rising: Check your baking powder and soda are fresh . Don’t whip batter too much .
• Too Dry: Could be overbaked . Start checking a few mins early .
• Gummy Batter: Means you overmixed . Stir until just joined .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Common Questions People Also Ask

1. Can I make this cake ahead? Yes you can . Make a day ahead and keep covered at room temp .
2. Frozen cranberries? Sure , toss them in straight from freezer . No thawing needed .
3. Fresh or dried berries? Fresh gives best tart pop , dried gives sweeter note .
4. Gluten-free? Swap in your favorite gluten-free flour blend .
5. Less sugar? You can cut sugar but cake might be denser .

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Cake is an easy way to bring bright flavors to any table . It’s full of zesty orange and tart cranberries plus a few health perks . Whether you stick to the classic or try a new twist , this cake is sure to please . Enjoy baking and share with your friends and family !

cranberry orange cake

This Cranberry Orange Cake combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the zesty brightness of orange, resulting in a delightful dessert that's perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 4 People

Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

• 1 9-inch round cake pan
• 1 mixing bowls
• 1 whisk
• 1 electric mixer (optional)
• 1 rubber spatula
• 1 set measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup fresh cranberries Or frozen, thawed.
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• ½ cup orange juice Freshly squeezed.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
• In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and orange zest.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the orange juice. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
• Gently fold in the cranberries using a rubber spatula, being careful not to overmix.
• Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For added flavor, consider drizzling a simple orange glaze over the top once the cake has cooled.

This cake can be served plain or with whipped cream for a delightful treat.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.