Okay, friends, let’s talk about something truly delightful: this Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake. It’s like a ray of sunshine bursting into your kitchen, especially on a gloomy morning. Imagine that first bite – the tangy cranberries popping against the sweet orange zest, all nestled in a super tender cake with a crumbly streusel topping. Seriously, it’s a flavor explosion! If you love a good blueberry muffin or even a classic sour cream coffee cake, prepare to be completely obsessed with this Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake version. It’s the perfect sweet treat to serve with coffee or tea! I think I make this at least once a month, especially during the holidays, and it never disappoints.
What is Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake?
Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake is a moist, tender cake infused with the bright flavors of vanilla. Fresh cranberries and orange zest. What is a breakfast treat? ), often featuring a crumbly streusel topping and glazed glaze. (Note: This recipe is not suitable for vegetarians. Think of it as a cross between breakfast pastry and light dessert. The beauty of this cake is how well the tartness of the cranberries balances the sweetness. Cake and glaze. Plus, the orange zest adds this incredible aromatic quality that just fills your kitchen with. Is this a really easy cake to make?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Seriously, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons to adore this Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake.
First off, the flavor is just out of this world. The combination of tart cranberries, zesty orange, and a sweet, buttery cake is absolutely divine. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it incredibly addictive. What I love most about this is how the orange really brightens up the cranberries; it’s a match made in heaven.
Then there’s the simplicityWhat is a fancy cake? You have most of the ingredients in your pantry already! What is a good recipe for preparing delicious baked goods without spending hours on the stove? In the kitchen. I swear, it takes less than 20 minutes to bake this cake. And let’s not forget the toppings.Cost-All the ingredients are pretty budget-friendly. If you buy cranberries in season and freeze them for later use, it is best to store them in the freezer.versatility is a huge plus. This cake is perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or even just a cozy snack with a cup of tea. It’s also fantastic for holiday gatherings or potlucks. It’s one of those recipes that everyone always asks for! I’ve made it for everything from Christmas morning to a casual Sunday brunch, and it’s always a hit. If you love this, you should definitely check out my lemon poppyseed muffin recipe, the flavors pair really well!
How to Make Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake
Quick Overview
Making this Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake is easier than you might think! Basically, you’ll mix up a simple cake batter, fold in some fresh cranberries and orange zest, and then top it with a buttery streusel topping. After baking until golden brown, you’ll drizzle it with a sweet orange glaze. The best part? It’s all done in one bowl (less cleanup, yay!) and requires minimal effort. I promise, even if you’re not a seasoned baker, you can totally nail this recipe. This process is super straightforward and results in a really impressive cake.
Ingredients
For the Main Batter: Why?
* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: I prefer using unbleached for a slightly nutty flavor. * 1 teaspoon baking powder: This gives the cake its light and fluffy texture. * 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps with browning and adds a subtle tang. What is the difference between sweetness and other flavors? * 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s properly soften for a smooth batter. * 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar: Feel free to reduce slightly if you prefer a less sweet cake. * 2 large eggs: Add richness and help bind the ingredients together. * 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: What is the best Sour Cream to use? Adds moisture and a lovely tang to the cake. * 1/2 cup milk: 1 teaspoon sugar What is the best way to use whole milk for flavor?
For the Filling:
* 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries: If using frozen, don’t thaw them. * 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps prevent the cranberries from sinking to the bottom. * Zest of 1 large orange: Adds a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor.
For the Glaze:
* 2 cups powdered sugar: Sift it for a super smooth glaze. * 3-4 tablespoons fresh orange juice: * 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: 1/4 teaspoon baking powder: 3/4 teaspoon salt: 1/3 teaspoon water: 1/2 tablespoon vanilla. Adjust to reach your desired consistency. Optional, but adds a lovely touch.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch Baking Pan. You can also line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. I always do this step first so the oven is ready when the batter is. Trust me, you don’t want to be stuck waiting for the oven to heat up when you’re in the baking zone!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Make sure everything is well combined. What are the leavening agents used for? Light and airy cake. I find that whisking really gets rid of any lumps and makes the cake texture better.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Set aside. Beat the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the Sour Cream and milk, alternating with the dry ingredients, beginning and ending. What are the dry ingredients? How do I make a tough cake? I always make sure my ingredients are room temperature, it really helps with the mixing process.
Step 4: Combine
If you have cranberries and orange zest, fold them into the batter and serve. Coat the cranberries with the tablespoon of flour before folding. How do you spread the cranberries evenly on a cake? What happens to the bottom during baking? Remember, gentle is the key here! How do you incorporate cranberries without crushing them or deflating the batter?
Step 5: Prepare Filling
Since this cake doesn’t have a traditional filling, this step refers to preparing the cranberry. This is the easiest step. What is the orange mixture that gets folded into the batter? Just make sure your cranberries are prepped (washed and dried if fresh, or measured out unless frozen) Your orange is zested. When it’s time to combine, everything is ready to go!
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. If you’re feeling fancy, you can create a swirl pattern on top using a knife or skewer. This adds a beautiful visual element to the finished cake. I like to drizzle a little bit of the glaze on top before baking to get a caramelized effect.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. When someone comes out clean, they are Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to prevent it from burning. Every oven is different, so adjust the baking time as needed. I always check for doneness around 30 minutes, just to be safe.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Drizzle the glaze over the cake. I like to wait until the cake is completely cool before glazing, to prevent the glaze from melting. What is the difference between running off and When cooled, it is easier to slice.
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Slice the Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake into squares and serve. It’s delicious on its own, but even better with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream. I love serving it warm with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion!
What is the best way to serve it?
Can you make Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake? What areFor Breakfast:Serve warm slices with a strong cup of black coffee or latte. The cake’s sweetness complements the bitterness of the coffee perfectly. I like to sprinkle extra orange zest on top for a pop of color.For Brunch:What are some of the best brunch recipes to serve with this cake? What are some of the best teas The bright flavors of the cake pair beautifully with lighter, more refreshing options. I also like to offer a mimosa bar with different fruit juices to complement the cake.As Dessert: For a simple yet elegant dessert, serve slices of the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped nuts adds a touch of indulgence. This also tastes amazing after dinner with some hot chocolate on a chilly evening!
For Cozy Snacks:Can you serve this cake with a warm cup of tea or cocoa? What is the best comfort food to eat in the evening? I often make this cake on weekends just to have something to snack on throughout the week. Growing up, my grandma always served coffee cake with a side of Fresh Berries. I’ve carried on that tradition, and it’s always a hit!
How do I make a Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake?
What are some ways to take your Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake to the next level? What are some of my tried and true tips?Cranberry Prep:If using fresh cranberries, make sure to rinse them thoroughly and remove any stems or soft berries. If using frozen cranberries, don’t thaw them before adding them to the batter. How do you prevent cake from bleeding? Is it possible to pulse a few pieces in chopper or food processor if you prefer?Mixing Advice:Do not overmix the batter. Overmixing develops gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until just combined, and then gently fold in the cranberries and orange zest. I always use a rubber spatula for this step to avoid overmixing.Ingredient Swaps:Feel free to experiment with different ingredient substitutions. Can you substitute Gluten Free flour for a gluten-free version? What is a healthier option? Almond extract can also be a fun addition to enhance the nutty notes of the cake. I’ve tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!Baking Tips: Place the cake in the center of the oven for even baking. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil. Use a toothpick or skewer to test for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Also, make sure your oven is properly calibrated for the best results.
Glaze Variations: Get creative with your glaze! You can add lemon zest for a tangy twist, or a splash of bourbon for a boozy kick. For a thicker glaze, use less orange juice; for a thinner glaze, use more. I sometimes add a pinch of salt to the glaze to balance the sweetness.
I learned the hard way that overbaking this cake results in a dry, crumbly texture. Now, I always start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Want to make your Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake last longer? Here’s how to store it properly:
Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. This keeps it fresh and moist. I usually cover the cut edges with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, keep the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving. The fridge can dry out the cake, so make sure it’s well-sealed.
Freezer Instructions: To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. I like to slice the cake before freezing so I can easily grab a piece whenever I want.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to store the cake for more than a day, it’s best to glaze it just before serving. This prevents the glaze from becoming sticky or dissolving into the cake. I usually keep the glaze in a separate container and drizzle it over the cake as needed.
I once made this cake a week in advance for a party and froze it. It tasted just as good as the day I baked it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Well, there you have it! My absolute favorite Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake recipe. It’s truly one of those recipes that just makes me happy every time I make it. The smell alone fills my kitchen with such a warm and inviting aroma. If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious, you absolutely have to try this one. And if you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my apple crumble or even my pumpkin spice bread. Both offer that cozy, comforting flavor that’s perfect for any time of year. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please leave a comment below and let me know if you made any fun variations. Don’t forget to rate the recipe too!
Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in orange juice and zest.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the cranberries.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before serving.
