Cranberry Orange Cake

This Cranberry Orange Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the tartness of cranberries and the zestiness of oranges. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply to brighten your day, this cake stands out with its moist texture and vibrant flavors. The combination of a cranberry filling and orange cream cheese frosting makes it not only visually appealing but also a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can enjoy success.
• Flavor Explosion: The rich combination of cranberries and oranges creates a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for various occasions like Thanksgiving, birthdays, or casual get-togethers.
• Beautiful Presentation: The colorful layers and frosting make this cake a showstopper on any dessert table.
• Moist and Delicious: The use of sour cream ensures that every slice is tender and flavorful.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 3 (8×2 inch) round cake pans
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes it easy to blend ingredients quickly and thoroughly, ensuring a fluffy batter.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for keeping different components organized while you prepare the cake.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring no ingredient is left behind.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 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)

For the Cranberry Filling

• 1 ½ cup fresh or frozen cranberries (180g)
• ¾ cup sugar (150g)
• ¾ cup water (180g)

For the Frosting

• 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)

For Color

• Orange Coloring Gel (Optional. We used a very small amount for tinting.)

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How to Make Cranberry Orange Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

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

Step 2: Prepare the Cranberries

Chop cranberries into small pieces. Rinse them in a strainer to remove seeds, then gently pat dry.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, combine:
* Cake flour,
* Baking powder,
* Baking soda,
* Salt.

Whisk until blended; set aside.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl or measuring cup, blend:
* Sour cream,
* Orange juice,
* Orange zest,
* Vanilla extract,
* Orange extract.

Set this mixture aside as well.

Step 5: Cream Butter and Sugar

In your stand mixer bowl, beat softened butter until smooth. Gradually add sugar while mixing at medium speed for about 3 to 5 minutes until fluffy.

Step 6: Add Eggs

Add eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until each yolk disappears before adding the next. If using coloring gel, add it now.

Step 7: Combine Mixtures

With the mixer on low speed, alternate adding the flour mixture and sour cream mixture starting with flour. Mix just until combined.

Step 8: Stir in Cranberries

Gently fold in sliced cranberries. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops with a spoon.

Step 9: Bake

Bake at 350 degrees for approximately 25 to 30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with minimal crumbs. Let cakes cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before removing from pans.

Step 10: Cool Completely

Allow cakes to cool completely on wire racks before frosting. Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Orange Cake!

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Cake

Cranberry Orange Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to make the most of this delicious cake.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice with a dollop of whipped cream for a traditional dessert experience.

Fruit Compote

• Top with a warm cranberry or orange fruit compote for an extra burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the cake to create a perfect balance between warmth and creaminess.

Drizzle of Glaze

• Drizzle an orange glaze over the cake slices for added sweetness and visual appeal.

Festive Platter

• Arrange slices on a festive platter with fresh cranberries and orange slices for a beautiful holiday display.

Afternoon Tea

• Offer small slices as part of an afternoon tea spread, paired with herbal teas or coffee for an elegant touch.

How to Perfect Cranberry Orange Cake

To achieve the best results with your Cranberry Orange Cake, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding flour and wet ingredients. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature, as this can affect baking time.
• Cool Properly: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to avoid sogginess.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste your frosting and adjust sugar levels according to your preference before spreading it on the cake.
• Store Correctly: Keep leftovers covered in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate if you prefer chilled cake.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Orange Cake

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

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds savory flavors that complement the sweetness of the cake.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses provides a nice contrast, enhancing the overall taste profile when enjoyed together.
3. Salad Greens: A light salad with citrus vinaigrette can refresh the palate after indulging in sweet cake, balancing flavors well.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Offer chocolate fondue for dipping pieces of cake, creating an interactive dessert experience that guests will love.
5. Spiced Nuts: Serve spiced nuts as a crunchy side that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the cake while adding flavor depth.
6. Berry Medley: A simple bowl of mixed berries adds freshness and color, making it an appealing accompaniment to your dessert.
7. Tea or Coffee: Providing warm beverages like tea or coffee enhances enjoyment while offering comforting warmth alongside the cake.
8. Candied Citrus Peels: These add a sweet yet tangy bite that pairs beautifully with both the flavors of cranberry and orange in your cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking a Cranberry Orange Cake, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing the cake batter too much can lead to a dense texture. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy cake.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little of an ingredient can throw off the balance. Always measure your ingredients precisely for the best results.
• Skipping the cooling time: Removing the cakes from the pans too soon can cause them to break apart. Allow them to cool in the pans for at least 5-10 minutes before turning them out.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and sour cream can affect how well they incorporate into the batter. Let these ingredients come to room temperature for better mixing.
• Neglecting oven temperature: Every oven is different, and baking times can vary. Always check your cake a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cranberry Orange Cake in an airtight container.
• The cake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• If it’s frosted, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cranberry Orange Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating Cranberry Orange Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat for a few minutes, covering with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Make My Cranberry Orange Cake Moist?

To ensure your Cranberry Orange Cake stays moist, use fresh ingredients like room temperature eggs and sour cream. Also, avoid overbaking as this can dry out the cake.

Can I Use Other Fruits in This Recipe?

Yes! You can customize your Cranberry Orange Cake by substituting cranberries with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries for different flavors.

What Is The Best Frosting For My Cranberry Orange Cake?

A cream cheese frosting complements the flavors of this cake beautifully. The tanginess of cream cheese pairs well with both orange and cranberry flavors.

How Can I Adjust The Sweetness Of The Cake?

You can reduce the sugar in both the cake and frosting if you prefer less sweetness. However, remember that sugar also affects texture, so make adjustments carefully.

Final Thoughts

This delightful Cranberry Orange Cake is not only moist and flavorful but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you serve it at Thanksgiving or as an everyday treat, it’s sure to impress. Feel free to customize it with different fruits or frostings based on your preference!

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Cranberry Orange Cake

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves 12 1x

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Description

Cranberry Orange Cake is an exquisite dessert that harmonizes the tartness of fresh cranberries with the zesty brightness of oranges. This cake, with its moist layers and creamy orange frosting, is perfect for any occasion—from festive gatherings to casual afternoon treats. The delightful combination of flavors not only pleases the palate but also makes for a stunning centerpiece at your dessert table. Whether served as a classic slice with whipped cream or accompanied by a warm fruit compote, this cake is sure to impress friends and family alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 sticks unsalted butter, slightly softened (226g)
• 2 cups sugar (400g)
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 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)
• 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)
• 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)
• 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)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Chop cranberries into small pieces and rinse them; set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. In another bowl, blend sour cream, orange juice, zest, and extracts.
5. Cream softened butter and sugar until fluffy; add eggs one at a time.
6. Alternate adding dry and wet mixtures to the creamed mixture until combined.
7. Gently fold in cranberries before dividing batter among the prepared pans.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean; cool completely before frosting.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 33g
• Sodium: 210mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing results. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy. Feel free to substitute cranberries with other berries for varied flavors.