Cranberry Orange Cake is the kind of dessert that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. Imagine biting into a slice, where the tartness of cranberries meets the sweet zest of oranges, creating a flavor explosion that’s as bright as a summer day. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, pulling in anyone within a five-mile radius like a moth to a flame. crispy sourdough croutons Sounds delightful, right? Well, let me tell you, it’s not just delicious; it’s also the perfect treat for gatherings, cozy afternoons, or even when you just need to bribe yourself after a tough week!
Now, picture this: it was Thanksgiving last year, and I decided to surprise my family with this gorgeous Cranberry Orange Cake. After an intense debate over whose turn it was to host (which was more heated than the oven), I managed to whip up this beauty. grilled peach caprese salad The moment my relatives took their first bite, silence fell over the table—then came the symphony of “mmmmms” and “wow!” It was a magical moment that turned into an instant family favorite. Trust me; you’re going to want to add this recipe to your collection.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cranberry Orange Cake is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal prep time.
- The combination of flavors is perfectly balanced between tart and sweet, making each bite delightful.
- Its vibrant colors will add visual appeal to any occasion.
- This cake is versatile enough for holidays, birthdays, or simply enjoying with tea on a rainy afternoon.
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: You’ll need about 2 cups for that perfect fluffy texture.
- Cranberries: Fresh or frozen work great; choose tart varieties for the best flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: About 1 cup will sweeten things up nicely without overpowering.
- Orange Zest: Use zest from one large orange for that fresh citrus kick.
- Baking Powder: You’ll need about 2 teaspoons to help your cake rise beautifully.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all those wonderful flavors in the cake.
- Unsalted Butter: One stick (1/2 cup) adds moisture and richness—don’t skimp!
- Eggs: Two large eggs bind everything together perfectly.
For the Glaze:
- Powdered Sugar: About 1 cup will create that dreamy glaze everyone loves.
- Fresh Orange Juice: Use juice from half an orange for sweetness and tanginess in the glaze.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease and flour a round cake pan or line it with parchment paper so nothing sticks!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and orange zest. Set aside so those flavors can mingle.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about three minutes—enough time to daydream about how amazing your kitchen will smell soon.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Add in the eggs one at a time while continuing to mix until everything is well combined. The batter should look smooth and creamy—like you could dive right into it!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients into your butter mixture while alternating with cranberries. Stir gently until just combined—overmixing will lead you down the road of dryness!
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and pop it in the oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly during this time—try not to eat all the batter before it bakes!
Once done baking, let your cake cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack.
To finish off this masterpiece, mix up your glaze using powdered sugar and fresh orange juice until smooth. Drizzle it over your cooled cake like icing on top of a very happy cupcake! Serve slices with tea or coffee for an unforgettable experience.
Now grab that beautiful slice of Cranberry Orange Cake and savor every bite!
You Must Know
- This delightful cranberry orange cake is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a feast for the eyes too.
- The vibrant colors and zesty aroma will brighten up any gathering, making it perfect for celebrations or a cozy afternoon with friends.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, start by preheating your oven and preparing your baking pan. Mix your dry ingredients first, followed by creaming the butter and sugar. Then, gradually add eggs and incorporate the wet ingredients before folding in those luscious cranberries.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this cranberry orange cake by swapping out cranberries for blueberries or adding nuts for crunch. A pinch of cinnamon can also elevate the flavor, making each slice unique to your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover cranberry orange cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it warm later, simply pop individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve a moist cranberry orange cake, avoid overmixing the batter; gentle folding is key.
- Use fresh cranberries for vibrant flavor, but frozen ones work well too!
- Remember to let the cake cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.
It was my mom’s birthday when I first made this cranberry orange cake. She took one bite, her eyes lit up, and she said it reminded her of sunny mornings spent in grandma’s kitchen. That moment filled my heart with joy!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Cranberry Orange Cake?
To create a delicious Cranberry Orange Cake, gather the following ingredients: all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, fresh cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, eggs, baking powder, and butter. You may also want to include vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results. This cake is perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with cranberries recipe.
How long does it take to bake Cranberry Orange Cake?
Baking a Cranberry Orange Cake typically takes about 50 to 60 minutes in the oven at 350°F (175°C). However, it’s essential to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Can I substitute ingredients in my Cranberry Orange Cake?
Yes, you can substitute some ingredients in your Cranberry Orange Cake. For example, if you want to make it gluten-free, consider using almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour. You can also replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey for a healthier option. no-bake cheesecake alternative Additionally, if you don’t have fresh cranberries available, dried cranberries can work as an alternative; just adjust the liquid content slightly.
How should I store my Cranberry Orange Cake?
To keep your Cranberry Orange Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, refrigerate it for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. Thaw the slices at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Conclusion for Cranberry Orange Cake :
In summary, the Cranberry Orange Cake is a delightful treat that combines sweet and tart flavors in every bite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, it’s suitable for any occasion. Remember to check for doneness while baking and feel free to make ingredient substitutions based on your dietary needs. Enjoy this cake fresh or stored properly for later enjoyment! For more inspiration, check out this easy baked cranberry turkey sliders recipe.
Cranberry Orange Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Cranberry Orange Cake is a vibrant dessert that harmoniously blends the tartness of cranberries with the sweet zest of oranges, creating a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and indulgent. This delightful cake not only pleases the palate but also brightens up any gathering with its stunning appearance and enchanting aroma. Perfect for celebrations, cozy afternoons, or as a reward after a long week, this easy-to-make recipe will quickly become a favorite among friends and family.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- Juice from 1/2 orange (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and orange zest.
- In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with cranberries until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Mix powdered sugar and orange juice for the glaze; drizzle over cooled cake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
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