Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

I remember the first time I made Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake for my family. It was a chilly Sunday morning, and the sun peeked through the curtains as the sweet aroma began to fill the kitchen. My children were bustling about, eagerly anticipating breakfast, and I wanted to create something special to start our day. This cake always brings warmth and joy to our home. Each slice sparkles with bright cranberries and zesty orange, reminding us of cheerful autumn mornings. This recipe matters to me because it captures those simple moments together, where food, love, and laughter blend perfectly.

Why Make This Recipe

Imagine waking up to the delightful scent of freshly baked Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake. Not only does this cake taste amazing, but it also makes your kitchen feel like a warm, inviting space. The tangy cranberries paired with sweet orange create a lovely balance that brightens anyone’s day. Plus, this recipe is straightforward, making it a wonderful choice even for beginners.

Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake offers so much more than just flavor. You can serve it for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon snack. The contrast of textures, from the fluffy cake to the juicy cranberries, makes each bite a little celebration. Families will love gathering around the table to enjoy this delicious treat, and you will feel great knowing that you made something special. Indeed, this cake is moist, flavorful, and a lovely way to spread joy to your loved ones.

Furthermore, the versatility of this cake shines through. You can easily adapt it to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you enjoy it plain, with some cream on top, or perhaps a drizzle of glaze, the possibilities are endless. This recipe does not only provide a tasty dish; it gives you the opportunity to create lovely memories with those you cherish.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups Cranberries, fresh or frozen
• Zest from 1 large Orange
• 2 large Eggs
• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp Baking powder
• 1/2 tsp Baking soda
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/2 cup Orange juice, freshly squeezed
• 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream

Directions

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan. In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the orange zest and orange juice to enhance the cake’s flavor.

Next, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this ensures a tender cake. Now, fold in the cranberries and Greek yogurt or sour cream, which adds moisture and richness to the batter.

Once all ingredients are combined, pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, allow the cake to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely, which makes it easier to slice.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

You can serve this delightful Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake in several fantastic ways. First, consider enjoying a slice warm with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. The combination is cozy and perfect for a relaxing morning. You might also try serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of sweet glaze for added flavor and presentation.

If you are hosting a brunch, slice the cake into small squares for easy serving. You can place them on a beautiful platter to create an inviting display. Adding some fresh orange slices or cranberries as a garnish makes it visually appealing and adds a pop of color.

Consider pairing this cake with yogurt or cottage cheese to add a creamy element. This combination boosts the protein content and makes for a balanced breakfast. You can enjoy it any time of the day; it works as an afternoon snack or dessert as well!

Lastly, serving this cake at holiday gatherings is a festive idea. The bright colors and refreshing flavor make it a lovely centerpiece for your dessert table. Family and friends will surely appreciate your creative way of embracing the season’s fruits.

How to Store Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

Storing your Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake is simple and will keep it delicious for days. To keep it fresh, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also store it in an airtight container. This method prevents air from drying it out and maintains its soft texture.

If you keep it at room temperature, it will last for about 2-3 days. However, if you want to keep it longer, refrigeration is a good choice. Placing it in the refrigerator can extend its freshness up to a week. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

For longer storage, freezing is possible too! You can freeze slices or the entire cake. Wrap it well to prevent freezer burn, and store it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you are ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and it will taste nearly as fresh as when you first baked it.

Tips to Make Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use eggs and butter at room temperature for a lighter texture. Cold ingredients can create a dense cake, so take a little time before baking to allow them to warm up.

2. Measure Flour Properly: Use the spoon and level method to measure your flour accurately. Too much flour can lead to a dry cake. Fluff the flour, spoon it into a measuring cup, and then level it off with a knife.

3. Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much once you add the dry ingredients can develop gluten, making your cake tough. Stir gently until everything is just combined for a soft and tender crumb.

4. Use Fresh Cranberries: If you can find fresh cranberries, they will give a burst of flavor and tartness that really shines in this cake. If frozen is your only option, there is no harm in using those, but add them straight from the freezer to avoid excess moisture.

5. Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. This will help it hold together better and prevent crumbling. It’s hard to resist a warm piece, but patience pays off!

6. Experiment with Topping: Adding a simple glaze on top can elevate the flavor. Mix powdered sugar with a bit of orange juice for a quick and easy topping that adds sweetness.

7. Use a Toothpick to Test: Always test doneness with a toothpick. Different ovens can vary, so check a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.

8. Add a Spiced Twist: If you enjoy warm spice flavors, consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. They can compliment the orange and cranberry beautifully, adding depth.

Variation of Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

1. Chocolate Cranberry Orange Cake: For a delicious twist, melt some dark chocolate and fold it into the batter. The rich chocolate combines well with the tart cranberries and zesty orange, creating a decadent dessert option everyone will love.

2. Nutty Cranberry Orange Cake: Add a half cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for some crunch. The buttery, earthy notes of the nuts will complement the fruity flavors delightfully, adding texture to each bite.

3. Gluten-Free Cranberry Orange Cake: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those avoiding gluten. Many store-bought blends work well and will still provide a lovely cake texture.

4. Lemon Zest Variations: Instead of orange, try lemon zest for a lighter, sharper flavor. The brightness pairs well with cranberries for a refreshing change, perfect for spring or summer gatherings.

5. Fruity Tropical Twist: Mix in some chopped pineapple or mango along with the cranberries for a tropical vibe. This fruity combination will create an exotic cake that transports you to sunny beaches.

6. Low-Sugar Option: For a lower-sugar version, use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup in place of granulated sugar. Adjust the liquid ingredients to keep the batter consistency right; this option still offers great flavor with less sugar.

FAQs Of Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

Can I freeze Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake! After it cools completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for 2-3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge when you’re ready to eat.

How do I know if the cake is done baking?
To check if your cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, it’s ready. If the batter clings to the toothpick, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, sour cream works as a great substitute. You can also use plain yogurt or even applesauce for a lighter version. Each option alters the flavor slightly, but will still keep your cake moist.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
You can use dried cranberries, but reduce the amount slightly since they are sweeter. Keep in mind that the cake will have a different texture and flavor with dried cranberries.

What toppings pair well with this cake?
This cake shines with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and orange juice. You can also top it with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added flair.

How do I store leftovers?
For leftovers, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. At room temperature, it lasts for 2-3 days; in the fridge, it can last about a week.

Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

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• Author: imrane
• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

A delightful breakfast cake featuring the perfect balance of tangy cranberries and sweet orange, perfect for cozy mornings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups Cranberries, fresh or frozen
• Zest from 1 large Orange
• 2 large Eggs
• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp Baking powder
• 1/2 tsp Baking soda
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp Salt
• 1/2 cup Orange juice, freshly squeezed
• 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
2. In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Stir in the orange zest and orange juice.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently.
7. Fold in the cranberries and Greek yogurt or sour cream.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
9. Bake for about 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For added flavor, consider drizzling a glaze made of powdered sugar and orange juice on top. You can also enjoy it with whipped cream or a scoop of yogurt.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 325
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: breakfast cake, cranberry cake, orange cake, brunch recipe