Hello, baking enthusiasts! Are you prepared to make an impressive dessert that’s just as delicious and festive? This moist cake with a hint of orange is the ideal centerpiece for your holiday table or special occasion. It’s packed with the citrus tang of orange and the sweet tart flavor of cranberries, this cake will surely to be your new favorite dessert. Let’s get started with this simple-to-follow recipe that is sure to please!
Introduction
Cranberry Orange Layer Cake is a perfect combination of bright citrus and richness of the berries. The cake was initially a seasonal hit but it has grown to become a classic all year round. Ideal for birthdays, holidays or any other celebration This cake is a blend of delicate, soft layers and an incredibly creamy frosting that melts into your mouth. If you’re a lover of cakes with citrus flavor or appreciate the tartness of cranberries the recipe will be a hit. all of your dessert boxes.
What makes this recipe an absolute must-try? It’s not just beautiful visually, but the flavor is perfectly balanced which makes it a big hit for both kids and adults. With the perfect blend of zest and sweetness, this Cranberry Orange Delight Cake recipe will make everyone ask for more!
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Delight Cake
Cake Layers:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 1/4 cups sugar granulated
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 Cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/2 Cup buttermilk
- 1 1/2 cup either frozen or fresh Cranberries
Frosting:
- 1 1/2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 Cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 Cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon orange juice
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh cranberries
- Orange slices or zest
Substitutions:
- Alternate buttermilk by mixing a mixture of 1/2 cup of milk and 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar.
- Switch granulated sugar for coconut sugar to create an alternative that is sugar-free and refined.
- Use gluten-free flour to create an alternative that is gluten-free to the cake.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Delight Cake – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
Pre-heat your oven until 350degF (175degC). Grease and dust two round cake pans measuring 9 inches making sure that they are evenly covered to make it easy to remove.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl mix together the baking powder, flour baking soda, salt. This will ensure a uniform distribution of the leavening agents.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl combine the softened butter with sugar until it is fluffy and light, approximately 3-4 minutes. This is the most important step to ensure the cake to be soft and fluffy.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Zest
Incorporate each egg one at a mixing thoroughly following each one. Mix in the zest of orange to give a citrus scent.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternately mixing dry ingredients along with buttermilk and orange juice beginning and ending using the dry mixture. This stops mixing too much and keeps the batter from becoming too dry.
Step 6: Fold in the Cranberries
Fold the cranberries gently with a spatula, making sure to get an that they are evenly distributed. If using frozen cranberries place them in one tablespoon of flour to stop them from sinking.
Step 7: Bake the Layers
Divide the batter equally between the pans you’ve prepared. The cakes should bake at least about 25 to 30 hours and until a toothpick inserted into the middle is clean. Allow the cakes to cool for about 10 minutes before moving them onto an airtight rack to completely cool.
Helpful Tips for Cranberry Orange Delight Cake
- Utilize Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice improves the citrus taste.
- Chill Prior to Frosting The cakes should be completely cool in order to prevent melting the frosting.
- Create a pop in Color Utilize candied or sugared orange peels to serve as garnishes.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Cake
- room temperature ingredients Make sure that eggs, butter and buttermilk are temperatures that are at room temperature to allow for a more smooth mixing.
- Correct Mixing Be careful not to overmix once flour has been added to ensure that the cake remains moist.
- baking evenness Pans should be rotated halfway during baking to ensure uniform cooking.
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Orange Delight Cake
Enjoy it with a coffee, tea or a glass chilled orange mimosa to make the ultimate indulgence. To add a touch of decadence serve the cake in a reduction of cranberries, or serve it with vanilla Ice cream.
Nutritional Information
This dessert is delicious and has the following benefits for your nutrition:
Calories: 450 per slice
Fats: 20g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Proteins: 5g
Vitamins Vitamin C from the zest of an orange and its juice
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 45g
- Protein: 5g
Storage and Leftovers for Cranberry Orange Delight Cake
- Storage Refrigerate and wrap the cake in plastic for 5 to 7 days.
- Freezing Place individual slice slices of HTML0 in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for at least 3 months.
- Reheating Slices of frozen cool at room temperature before serving or microwave for 10 seconds to warm the treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Cranberry Orange Delight Cake
1. Can I use dried cranberries in place of fresh?
Yes, you can rehydrate dried cranberries by boiling them in hot water for about 10 minutes prior to using.
2. Can I bake this cake in advance?
Absolutely! Bake the layers one day in advance and then sprinkle them with icing just before serving.
3. Can I create an alternative that is dairy-free?
Substitute cream cheese and butter by using plant-based alternatives such as coconut cream or vegan butter.
4. What caused my cranberries to get sucked up to the surface?
The cranberries should be coated with 1 tablespoon of flour prior to adding them to the batter.
Related Recipes for Cranberry Orange Cake Lovers
- Dill Cheddar Cheese Balls – Easy Appetizer Recipe
- Maple Pecan Butterballs Recipe – Irresistible Holiday Treats
Conclusion
It’s a must-have Cranberry Orange Delight Cake is the perfect dessert that will brighten up any event. With its bright flavors and rich frosting, it’s bound to become a household favorite. Take a look this week, and don’t forget to share your ideas or comments below. Let’s create a delicious baking experience together!
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Cranberry Orange Cake Recipe – Easy Holiday Dessert
Description
Hello, baking enthusiasts! Are you ready to create a show-stopping dessert that’s as festive as it is delicious? This Moist Cranberry Orange Delight Cake is the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table or any special gathering. Packed with the zesty tang of orange and the sweet-tart burst of cranberries, this cake promises to become your new favorite treat. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
Cake Layers:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1 cup fresh orange juice
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries
Frosting:
- 1 ½ cups cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange juice
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh cranberries
- Orange slices or zest
Substitutions:
- Replace buttermilk with a mix of ½ cup milk and 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice.
- Swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free option.
- Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of the cake.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, ensuring even coverage for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of leavening agents.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender cake.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Zest
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the orange zest for a burst of citrus aroma.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternate adding the dry ingredients with orange juice and buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry mix. This prevents overmixing and keeps the batter light.
Step 6: Fold in the Cranberries
Gently fold in the cranberries with a spatula, ensuring even distribution. If using frozen cranberries, toss them in a tablespoon of flour to prevent sinking.
Step 7: Bake the Layers
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use Fresh Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice enhances the citrus flavor.
- Chill Before Frosting: Cool the cakes completely to avoid melting the frosting.
- Add a Pop of Color: Use sugared cranberries or candied orange peels as garnishes.
