There’s something magical about the holiday season, isn’t there? The cozy gatherings, the twinkling lights, and of course, the delicious desserts! One recipe that always gets my taste buds in a festive mood is my Cranberry Orange Cake. The bright, zesty flavors of orange combined with the tartness of cranberries create a symphony of taste that screams celebration.
I remember the first time I made this cake. I had some leftover cranberries from Thanksgiving and thought, “Why not?” I whipped it up, filled my kitchen with a heavenly aroma, and served it at a holiday gathering. The cake was devoured, and everyone kept asking for seconds (and thirds!). Since then, it has become a staple in my holiday baking repertoire. It’s so easy and stands out with its vibrant colors, perfect for any festive table!
What’s in Cranberry Orange Cake?
Cranberries: Fresh or frozen, these little berries bring a wonderful tartness to the cake. I love using fresh cranberries for that pop of color, but if you have frozen ones, go right ahead! Just make sure they’re thawed and drained.
Oranges: The zest and juice of oranges are what take this cake to the next level. They add a bright, citrusy flavor that balances the tartness of the cranberries beautifully. I usually go for organic oranges since we’re using the zest!
Sugar: A combination of granulated and brown sugar helps to create a moist, tender crumb while also enhancing the sweetness.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for this recipe. It not only adds richness to the cake but also makes it wonderfully soft.
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for structure. Ensure you measure it correctly for the best results!
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents give the cake the rise it needs, making every bite fluffy!
Eggs: They help bind all the ingredients together and also add to the cake’s moistness.
Is Cranberry Orange Cake Good for You?
Ah, the million-dollar question! While this cake is definitely more of a treat than a health food, it does have some redeeming qualities.
Cranberries: Packed with antioxidants, these little berries are great for heart health and may help prevent urinary tract infections. Plus, they’re low in calories, which is a win!
Oranges: Another health superstar, oranges are loaded with vitamin C and fiber. They can boost your immune system, which can be especially helpful during cold-and-flu season!
Now, let’s not ignore the sugar and butter in this recipe! While they might not win any health awards, moderation is key. Enjoying a slice or two during the holidays is a nice way to indulge without going overboard. Just don’t make it an everyday dessert!
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Cake
– 1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed)
– 2 large oranges (zest and juice)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
*This recipe serves about 8-10 people, perfect for holiday gatherings!*
How to Make Cranberry Orange Cake?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This might take about 3-4 minutes, so don’t rush it!
3. Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition. Then stir in the zest and juice of the oranges, blending well.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture.
5. Gently fold in the cranberries, being careful not to break them up too much.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth out the top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Delectable Tips for Your Cranberry Orange Cake
– **Frosting Fun**: Don’t hesitate to add a glaze! A simple mix of powdered sugar and orange juice can add a lovely sweet-tart finish.
– **Flavor Variations**: Feeling adventurous? Try adding some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
– **Storage**: If you have leftovers (which I highly doubt!), store the cake in an airtight container for up to three days. It gets better overnight as the flavors meld!
– **Serving Suggestion**: Serve a slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat!
I hope you give this Cranberry Orange Cake a try! It’s a show-stopper that’s sure to impress your loved ones. And who knows, it might just become one of your holiday traditions too! Do let me know how it turns out; I’d love to hear about your baking adventures!
