Delicious Cranberry Orange Cake You Must Try Today

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Cranberry Orange Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh cranberries with the zesty brightness of orange. Topped with creamy frosting, this cake is perfect for cozy gatherings and festive occasions. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or a simple family dinner, this cake will impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Cake

This cake is not only delicious but also versatile, making it a perfect choice for various occasions. Here are a few reasons to love it:

Perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors
Moist texture thanks to sour cream
Great for Thanksgiving and other celebrations
Can be made gluten-free with simple substitutions
Easy to customize with different frostings
Healthy options available, like using less sugar

Plus, it’s a fun twist on your traditional Cranberry Orange Dessert or Cranberry Orange Pound Cake, making it a delightful addition to your dessert table.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Cake

Gather these items:

1/2 Cup Granulated Sugar (for sugaring)
1/2 Cup Water (To create syrup for the cranberries)
6 Ounces Fresh Cranberries (Plump and fresh for best flavor)
2 1/2 Cups Cake Flour (Can substitute with homemade cake flour)
2 teaspoons Baking Powder (For leavening)
1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda (To complement the acidic ingredients)
1/4 teaspoon Salt (Enhances overall flavor)
3/4 Cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
1 1/2 Cups Granulated Sugar (Second half for the cake)
4 Large Egg Whites (Discard yolks for less fat)
2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract
1/3 Cup Whole Milk (1% or 2% works, not skim)
1/2 Cup Sour Cream (Adds richness)
2 Cups Chopped Cranberries (fresh or frozen)
2 teaspoons Flour (To toss with cranberries)
3 Tablespoons Orange Zest (Fresh for best results)
1/2 Cup Orange Juice (Freshly squeezed is best)
1/4 Cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
6 Ounces Cream Cheese (softened)
2-3 Cups Powdered Sugar (sifted)
1-2 Tablespoons Whipping Cream (To reach desired frosting consistency)
1-2 Tablespoons Orange Zest (for decorating)

How to Make Cranberry Orange Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of water. Bring to a simmer until the sugar fully dissolves.
Step 2: Remove from heat and add 6 ounces of fresh cranberries, letting them soak for about 4 hours or overnight for best results.
Step 3: Drain the cranberries and roll them in the remaining sugar until they are well-coated. Set aside.
Step 4: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Step 5: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of cake flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
Step 6: In another bowl, cream together 3/4 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until fluffy.
Step 7: Beat in 4 egg whites, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1/3 cup of whole milk, followed by 1/2 cup of sour cream.
Step 8: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in 2 cups of chopped cranberries tossed in 2 teaspoons of flour, 3 tablespoons of orange zest, and 1/2 cup of orange juice.
Step 9: Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 10: In a medium bowl, combine 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter and 6 ounces of softened cream cheese, beating until creamy.
Step 11: Gradually add 2 to 3 cups of sifted powdered sugar, along with whipping cream until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 12: Mix in 1-2 tablespoons of orange zest for an extra zesty flavor.
Step 13: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.
Step 14: Place one layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top.
Step 15: Add the second layer and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
Step 16: Decorate with sugared cranberries and a sprinkle of orange zest.

Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Cake

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor.
Ensure your butter is softened for easier mixing.
Do not overmix the batter to maintain a moist texture.
Consider adding walnuts for a crunchy texture in your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake.
Frost the cake just before serving for the best presentation.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Orange Cake

This cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further by:

Pairing with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serving with a drizzle of warm orange glaze.
Making it a centerpiece for your Cranberry Orange Cake for Thanksgiving dessert table.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Orange Cake

To store your cake, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For meal prep, you can freeze the un-frosted layers. When ready to serve, allow the cake to thaw at room temperature and frost just before serving to maintain freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Orange Cake

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Orange Cake?

The secret lies in using fresh ingredients, especially cranberries and orange zest. They contribute to the cake’s vibrant flavor and moisture. Also, ensure not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a denser cake.

Can I make Cranberry Orange Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Frosting can also be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge. Assemble the cake just before serving for the best texture and taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Orange Cake?

To avoid mistakes, measure your ingredients accurately, and ensure your oven is preheated. Additionally, do not skip the step of tossing cranberries in flour, as this prevents them from sinking to the bottom.

Variations of Cranberry Orange Cake You Can Try

Here are some fun variations to consider:

Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Cake: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend.
Vegan Cranberry Orange Cake Recipe: Use flax eggs and dairy-free butter.
Cranberry Orange Layer Cake: Stack multiple layers with cream cheese frosting between each layer for a stunning presentation.
Cranberry Orange Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: Enhance its richness with a luscious cream cheese topping.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Apple Pie Baked Oats or try our Orange Zucchini Bread for a citrusy twist. If you’re looking for a savory option, our Baked Boneless Skinless Chicken is a great choice!