Cranberry Orange Cake

This moist, light Cranberry Orange Cake with cranberry filling and orange cream cheese frosting is a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant flavors make it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings, birthdays, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home. The combination of tart cranberries and zesty orange creates a uniquely delicious experience that will leave your guests asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of cranberries and orange zest gives this cake a refreshing taste that balances sweetness with tartness.
• Versatile Occasions: Perfect for celebrations like Thanksgiving, special occasion, or birthdays, this cake brings joy to any gathering.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can achieve impressive results.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to ingredients like sour cream and butter, this cake stays moist and tender.
• Impressive Presentation: The colorful layers and creamy frosting make for a stunning centerpiece on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating your delicious cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Three 8×2 inch round cake pans
• Whisk
• Strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes mixing the batter easier and more efficient, ensuring a fluffy texture.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess; having multiple bowls helps keep things organized.
• Whisk: Provides thorough mixing of dry ingredients and ensures even distribution throughout the batter.

Ingredients

This moist, light Cranberry Orange Cake with cranberry filling and orange cream cheese frosting is sure to please a crowd!

• 2 sticks unsalted butter, slightly softened (226g)
• 2 cups sugar (400g)
• 3 large eggs, room temperature (If in a hurry, place the eggs in a bowl of warm water for five minutes.)
• 1 cup sour cream (242g)
• ⅓ cup juice from approx. one medium sized orange
• 3 Tablespoons Orange Zest (or zest from 2-3 oranges)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (4g)
• 1 Tablespoon orange extract (10g) See notes
• 3 cups cake flour (plain in the UK) — if you do not have cake flour see substitution below (342g)
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder (7g)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda (3g)
• ½ teaspoon salt (3g)
• 1 cup cranberries, sliced into pieces (either fresh or frozen) (90g)
• Orange Coloring Gel to tint the batter (optional)
• 1 ½ cup fresh or frozen cranberries (180g)
• ¾ cup sugar (150g)
• ¾ cup water (180g)
• 3 sticks unsalted butter, softened (339g)
• 16 oz cream cheese (total weight 452g). We recommend full fat cream cheese.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (4g)
• 1 teaspoon orange extract (4g)
• ½ teaspoon salt (2g)
• 7 cups Confectioners sugar (adjust slightly up or down to your liking) (805g)
• Orange Coloring Gel (Optional. We used a very small amount for tinting.)

How to Make Cranberry Orange Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Grease and flour three 8×2 inch round cake pans.

Step 2: Prepare the Cranberries

Chop the cranberries into small pieces. Place the sliced cranberries in a strainer and rinse them to wash away most of the seeds. Gently pat dry.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, add the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk to blend and set aside.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl or measuring cup, add the sour cream, orange juice, orange zest, vanilla extract, and orange extract. Blend with a fork and set aside.

Step 5: Cream Butter and Sugar

In the bowl of your mixer, mix the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and mix on medium speed for about 3 to 5 minutes until it is lightened in color and fluffy.

Step 6: Add Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until the yellow of the yolk disappears. If adding orange coloring to your batter, you can do it at this time.

Step 7: Combine Mixtures

With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture and sour cream mixture alternately—beginning and ending with flour mixture—mixing just until combined.

Step 8: Stir in Cranberries

Gently stir in the sliced cranberries. Divide the batter between the three pans smoothing tops with a spoon.

Step 9: Bake

Bake at 350 degrees F for about 25 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Start checking as you approach the 25-minute mark; adjust baking times as necessary. Let cakes cool for about five to ten minutes before turning them out onto wire racks.

Step 10: Enjoy!

This recipe yields approximately seven cups of cake batter which also works wonderfully for cupcakes—about twenty-eight cupcakes!

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Cake

Cranberry Orange Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a festive gathering or a simple family dinner, serving suggestions can enhance the experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Freshly Whipped Cream: A dollop of light and fluffy whipped cream adds a rich texture that complements the cake’s flavors.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy vanilla flavor pairs beautifully with the tartness of the cranberries in the cake.

On a Dessert Platter

• Dessert Platter: Arrange slices of Cranberry Orange Cake alongside other desserts like cookies and brownies for an appealing display.

With Fruit Salad

• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance the sweetness of the cake and add a burst of color to your presentation.

As Cupcakes

• Cranberry Orange Cupcakes: Use the same batter to make cupcakes, perfect for individual servings at parties or potlucks.

With Coffee or Tea

• Coffee or Tea Pairing: Enjoy a slice with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy afternoon treat.

How to Perfect Cranberry Orange Cake

Creating the ideal Cranberry Orange Cake requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are some ways to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh cranberries will give your cake the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, make sure they are thawed and drained well.
• Check Baking Time: Ovens vary; start checking for doneness at 25 minutes using a toothpick to avoid overbaking.
• Cool Properly: Allow cakes to cool in pans before turning them out; this helps maintain their structure.
• Experiment with Zest: Adjust orange zest quantity based on preference for a stronger citrus flavor in your cake.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Orange Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Cranberry Orange Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses, including brie and cheddar, provide savory contrast to the sweet cake.
2. Roasted Nuts: Salted roasted nuts add crunch and richness that complement the softness of the cake.
3. Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling chocolate ganache over each slice adds indulgence and balances tart flavors.
4. Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce offers sweetness that pairs well with tart cranberry flavors.
5. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add texture and flavor contrast when served alongside slices of cake.
6. Mini Fruit Tarts: Light mini tarts filled with custard and topped with fruit make for an elegant side dish that pairs nicely with the cake.
7. Ginger Snap Cookies: Their spiced flavor profiles work exceptionally well alongside this fruity dessert.
8. Pecan Pie Bites: These little bites bring an additional layer of sweetness while maintaining a comforting feel in desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Cranberry Orange Cake can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold eggs or butter can affect the cake’s texture. Always ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Not measuring flour accurately: Too much flour can ruin your cake. Use the spoon and level method rather than scooping directly from the bag.
• Skipping the cooling time: Removing the cake from pans too soon can cause it to break. Allow it to cool in the pans for at least 10 minutes before transferring to racks.
• Using stale cranberries: Fresh or properly frozen cranberries give the best flavor. Always check that your cranberries are fresh and firm.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store your Cranberry Orange Cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness.

Freezing Cranberry Orange Cake

• Duration: You can freeze this cake for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Wrap each layer in plastic wrap and then foil, or use a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Cranberry Orange Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place slices on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a delicious Cranberry Orange Cake:

How do I enhance the flavor of my Cranberry Orange Cake?

Adding extra orange zest or using fresh orange juice instead of bottled can elevate the flavor significantly.

Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well! Just chop them while still frozen and add them directly to your batter.

What is the best way to frost my Cranberry Orange Cake?

For even frosting, use an offset spatula and apply a thin layer first (crumb coat), then follow with a thicker layer once set.

How do I store leftover Cranberry Orange Cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or substitute lemon zest for orange zest if you prefer a different citrus flavor.

Final Thoughts

This moist and flavorful Cranberry Orange Cake is perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, while its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste. Whether you choose to serve it at Thanksgiving or as a delightful treat any day of the week, this cake is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate—give it a try today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cranberry Orange Cake

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Cranberry Orange Cake, a moist and vibrant dessert that perfectly balances tart cranberries with zesty orange notes. This cake is not only visually stunning with its colorful layers and creamy frosting but also incredibly versatile—ideal for holiday celebrations, birthdays, or a sweet treat at home. With easy-to-follow instructions, even novice bakers can create an impressive centerpiece that will have guests coming back for seconds. The rich orange cream cheese frosting adds a luscious finish to this already delightful cake, making it a must-try for any occasion.

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Ingredients

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• 2 sticks unsalted butter
• 2 cups sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• ⅓ cup orange juice
• 3 tablespoons orange zest
• 3 cups cake flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup sliced cranberries

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease three 8×2 inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
3. In another bowl, combine sour cream, orange juice, zest, vanilla extract, and orange extract; set aside.
4. Cream softened butter and sugar until fluffy; add eggs one at a time.
5. Alternate adding dry and wet mixtures to the butter mixture until just combined; fold in cranberries.
6. Divide batter among pans and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow cooling before removing from pans.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 26g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 55mg