Irresistible Cranberry Orange Layer Cake Recipe Delight

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by Tonya

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There’s something magical about the combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges, isn’t there? When you bite into a slice of Cranberry Orange Layer Cake, you’re greeted with a burst of flavor that dances on your taste buds. It’s like a happy little party in your mouth where each layer contributes to the celebration. For more inspiration, check out this Easy Yogurt Cake recipe recipe.

I remember the first time I made this cake. It was during a chaotic holiday gathering, and let me tell you, my kitchen looked like a tornado had just rolled through. The delightful aroma of oranges filled the air, and soon enough, my family was lining up for seconds. This cake is perfect for gatherings or just to brighten up a gloomy Tuesday. Trust me when I say it will have everyone coming back for more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Cranberry Orange Layer Cake is both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious
  • Its vibrant colors make it visually stunning on any dessert table
  • Perfect for any occasion, from festive holidays to cozy family dinners
  • The balance of tartness and sweetness creates an unforgettable flavor experience

I once served this at a family reunion, and let’s just say the cake disappeared faster than I could say “seconds, please!”

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • All-Purpose Flour: A sturdy base for our cake; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.

  • Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the batter perfectly; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient.

  • Baking Powder: This magical powder helps our layers rise beautifully; check its freshness before using.

  • Salt: Just a pinch enhances flavors without making it taste salty; trust me on this one.

  • Unsalted Butter: Use room temperature butter for easy creaming with sugar; it adds richness to our cake.

  • Eggs: They provide structure and moisture; use large eggs at room temperature for best results.

  • Fresh Oranges: Zest and juice are key here; choose vibrant oranges for maximum flavor.

  • Cranberries: Fresh or frozen work well; they add tartness that balances the sweetness beautifully.

  • Powdered Sugar: For our luscious frosting; sift it to ensure smoothness in every bite.

  • Milk: Whole milk gives the cake a moist texture; feel free to substitute with almond milk if needed.

  • Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances the overall flavor profile; don’t skip this important ingredient!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. cozy baked oats recipe. soft baked donut bars.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Baking Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans with baking spray. Line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

Create the Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, cream unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Add Flavorful Elements: Incorporate orange zest and juice into your batter along with vanilla extract. Stir until fully combined for that zesty kick.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into your wet mixture until just combined.

Toss in Cranberries : Gently fold in cranberries, being careful not to overmix. You want those little bursts of tartness throughout your cake!

Bake Each Layer : Divide the batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool Completely : Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks. Let them cool completely before frosting.

Create Delicious Frosting : Beat together softened butter with powdered sugar until smooth. Add orange juice and zest until creamy.

Assemble Your Cake : Place one layer on a serving plate, spread frosting generously on top. Repeat with remaining layers and finish by frosting sides.

Add Final Touches : Garnish with additional cranberries or orange slices if desired! Now step back and admire your masterpiece before diving in!

And there you have it! A stunning Cranberry Orange Layer Cake that not only looks beautiful but tastes absolutely divine too! Enjoy each scrumptious bite as you share it with friends or family—or maybe keep it all to yourself (no judgment here)!

You Must Know

  • This delightful cranberry orange layer cake is a perfect blend of tart and sweet, making it a showstopper for any occasion
  • The vibrant colors and zesty aroma will brighten your kitchen and lift your spirits
  • Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, which is always a win!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by prepping all your ingredients, ensuring they’re at room temperature for the best texture. Bake the layers while preparing the frosting to maximize efficiency and flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Consider adding chopped nuts or even a hint of spice like cinnamon to the batter. These little tweaks can elevate your cranberry orange layer cake to new heights of deliciousness. delicious mini cheesecakes.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to reheat, use the microwave in short bursts to avoid drying it out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To achieve a moist cake, measure flour accurately and avoid overmixing
  • Adding buttermilk enhances tenderness and flavor
  • Always let the layers cool completely before frosting for better results

Sometimes, I wonder if my family loves me or just my cranberry orange layer cake. Their smiles say it all when I pull this beauty out of the oven.

FAQ

What makes this cranberry orange layer cake special?

This cake uniquely combines tart cranberries with zesty oranges for a refreshing flavor. refreshing lemon chicken soup.

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well; just don’t thaw them before baking.

How do I prevent my cake from sinking in the middle?

Ensure that your ingredients are at room temperature and avoid overmixing the batter.

Print
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Cranberry Orange Layer Cake


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

Description

Cranberry Orange Layer Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully balances the tartness of fresh cranberries with the zesty brightness of oranges. Perfect for any occasion, this cake will wow your guests and bring joy to your gatherings. With its moist layers and creamy frosting, each slice is a celebration of flavor that’s sure to brighten up any day.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 4 large eggs (room temperature)
  • Zest and juice of 2 large fresh oranges
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  3. Mix in orange zest, juice, and vanilla extract until combined.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually add to wet mixture until just combined.
  5. Gently fold in cranberries.
  6. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
  8. For frosting: Beat together softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth; mix in orange juice and zest.
  9. Assemble the cake by layering with frosting in between each layer and on the outside.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 45g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 54g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added texture, consider folding in chopped nuts or spices like cinnamon into the batter. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal results.

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