Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

 

Start your day with a burst of sunshine! This Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake is moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. The tangy cranberries and bright orange create a delightful combination that’s perfect for a weekend brunch or a special morning treat. Inspired by cozy, homemade goodness, this cake will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s bake some happiness!

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy mornings.
• Incredibly Moist: The orange juice keeps the cake tender and delicious.
• Perfect Balance: The tart cranberries and sweet orange create a harmonious flavor.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Impress your family and friends with this stunning cake.
• Versatile: Enjoy it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the sweet and tangy taste.

This cranberry orange breakfast cake is more flavorful and easier to prepare than your average coffee cake, and the aroma that fills your kitchen is simply irresistible!

Ingredients Needed for Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

• Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened. Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
• Granulated Sugar: 1 cup (200g). Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
• Large Eggs: 2. They bind the ingredients and add richness.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (5ml). Enhances the other flavors.
• Milk: 1/2 cup (120ml). Adds moisture to the cake.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1 1/2 cups (180g). Provides structure for the cake.
• Baking Powder: 1 1/2 teaspoons (7.5ml). Helps the cake rise.
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml). Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
• Fresh or Frozen Cranberries: 1 cup (100g). Adds a tart and juicy element.
• Orange: 1, zested and juiced. Provides a bright citrus flavor.
• Powdered Sugar: 1 cup (120g), for the glaze. Creates a smooth and sweet topping.
• Orange Juice: 2-3 tablespoons (30-45ml), for the glaze. Adds a tangy flavor to the glaze.

For the best results, use fresh cranberries during the cranberry season, which is typically from September to December. However, frozen cranberries work just as well! Remember to zest the orange before juicing it. Freshly squeezed orange juice will give you the best flavor, plus, lightly toast salt to elevate the flavor!

Essential Equipment List

• 9-inch Round Cake Pan: Ensures even baking and a perfectly shaped cake.
• Mixing Bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Electric Mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar easier and faster. A hand mixer works too!
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Wire Rack: For cooling the cake evenly after baking.

A good offset spatula can be useful for spreading the batter evenly in the pan. Using parchment paper to line the pan will make removing the cake easier.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes
• Servings: 8 slices
• Difficulty: Easy

This cranberry orange breakfast cake is easy to scale up for larger gatherings or halve for a smaller treat.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

Step 1: Get Ready to Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. This prevents the cake from sticking and ensures easy removal. You can also line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper for extra insurance.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender cake. Use an electric mixer for best results. If you don’t have one, you can use a wooden spoon, but it will take a bit more effort.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cake.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisking ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed, which is essential for a good rise. Sifting the flour can also help to prevent lumps.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cake. The alternating addition of dry and wet ingredients helps to maintain a smooth batter.

Step 6: Fold in Cranberries and Orange Zest

Gently fold in the cranberries and orange zest. Folding ensures that the cranberries and zest are evenly distributed without breaking or crushing them. This step adds the signature flavors to the cake.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so start checking at 30 minutes. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the cake in the pan prevents it from sticking and makes it easier to remove. Make sure it’s completely cool before glazing.

Step 9: Prepare the Orange Glaze

While the cake is cooling, prepare the orange glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Add more orange juice if needed to reach desired consistency. The glaze should be thick enough to drizzle but thin enough to spread easily.

Step 10: Glaze and Serve

Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the orange glaze over the top. Slice and serve. The glaze adds a beautiful finishing touch and enhances the orange flavor of the cake. Enjoy this delightful cranberry orange breakfast cake!

CHECK OUT: Apple Bread: The Perfect Fall Treat – A delicious way to savor seasonal flavors.

Tips for Success

• Use Softened Butter: This ensures the butter creams properly with the sugar, creating a light and fluffy cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten and can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
• Use Fresh Orange Zest: Fresh zest provides the best flavor and aroma.
• Check for Doneness: A toothpick inserted into the center of the cake should come out clean.
• Cool Completely: Make sure the cake is completely cool before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.

Try adding a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor. Also, lightly toasting salt can enhance it’s flavor!

Variations & Substitutions

• Lemon Cranberry: Substitute lemon zest and juice for the orange.
• Blueberry Orange: Replace cranberries with blueberries.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter.
• Spiced Cake: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.

For a richer flavor, try using brown butter instead of regular butter. Brown butter adds a nutty and complex flavor to the cake.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

This cranberry orange breakfast cake is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• A cup of hot coffee or tea: The perfect morning treat.
• A dollop of whipped cream or yogurt: Adds a creamy element.
• A side of fresh fruit: Complements the flavors of the cake.

It’s also a great addition to a brunch spread or a holiday gathering. Elevate plating by dusting the cake with powdered sugar or garnishing with orange slices.

Health Benefits

This Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake offers several health benefits. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immune health. Oranges provide vitamin C and fiber, aiding digestion and boosting immunity. While this cake is a treat, it incorporates wholesome ingredients that contribute to overall well-being. It provides a balance of carbohydrates for energy and fats for satiety. Fiber aids digestion.

Enjoying this cake in moderation can be a part of a balanced diet.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. You can also freeze the cake for longer storage. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Frozen cake can be thawed at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Cool cake completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh or frozen?

Yes, you can use dried cranberries. Soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to rehydrate them before adding them to the batter.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

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Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature and glaze it just before serving.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Can I use a different type of pan?

Yes, you can use a different type of pan. A loaf pan or a square baking pan would also work. Adjust the baking time accordingly.

What if I don’t have orange juice for the glaze?

You can use milk or lemon juice as a substitute for orange juice in the glaze. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 220mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Total Sugars: 25g
• Protein: 4g

Remember that these values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more delightful baked goods? Try these other tempting treats!

• Pumpkin Coffee Cake – A seasonal favorite with a warm, comforting flavor.
• Lemon Blueberry Oat Muffins – A healthy and delicious option for breakfast or a snack.
• Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping – A classic cake with a sweet and crunchy topping.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake is the perfect way to brighten up your morning. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and sure to be a hit with everyone. Whip it up this weekend and tag us with your beautiful creations!
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