The aroma of spiced citrus fills the air, pulling me into the kitchen where comfort and joy await. I’ve crafted a delightful Cranberry Orange Spice Cake that’s perfect for celebrating the festive season. This cake features a fluffy orange sponge dappled with tart cranberries, topped with a velvety white chocolate buttercream that adds a playful twist to traditional desserts. It’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal prep time, making it an ideal choice for busy holiday gatherings. You’ll love how the bright citrus notes uplift spirits and create a warm, inviting atmosphere on your dessert table. Don’t you just want to dive into a slice and share the sweetness of the season with loved ones?
Why is this Cranberry Orange Cake special?
Festive Flavor Explosion: This Cranberry Orange Spice Cake brilliantly blends bright citrus with tart cranberries, creating a celebration in every bite. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip this up without any fuss. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s an eye-catching centerpiece that will impress guests of all ages. Versatile Options: Feel free to switch up the frosting to suit your taste, like trying a champagne buttercream for a bubbly twist. Plus, consider pairing it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence!
Cranberry Orange Spice Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cake; substitute with cake flour for a lighter texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and balances the tartness of cranberries; no substitutions recommended.
- Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; use sea salt for a more nuanced taste.
- Ground Cloves – Adds warmth and a hint of spice; substitute with ground cinnamon if desired.
- Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; must be at room temperature for better incorporation.
- Eggs – Acts as a binder and moisture source; use large eggs for consistency.
- Orange Zest – Infuses bright citrus flavor; use fresh zest for optimal flavor.
- Milk – Keeps the cake moist and adds sweetness; can substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- Fresh Cranberries – Offers tartness and visual appeal; frozen cranberries can be used if fresh are unavailable.
For the Buttercream
- Powdered Sugar – For sweetness in the buttercream; no substitutions recommended.
- White Chocolate – Creates a creamy frosting; use high-quality white chocolate for best flavor and texture.
- Fresh Orange Juice – Enhances citrus flavor in the buttercream; substitute with orange extract if needed.
This Cranberry Orange Spice Cake is sure to become a festive favorite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Spice Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, grease three 8-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray. For added assurance, you can dust the pans with a sprinkle of flour. This step ensures that your Cranberry Orange Spice Cake will release easily once baked to perfection.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cloves. The goal here is to create a well-mixed dry blend that will provide structure to your cake while adding those warm, festive flavors. Set this bowl aside to allow the flavors to mingle.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to beat 1 cup of unsalted butter with 1 ¾ cups of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air, which gives your cake its delightful texture. The butter should look pale and creamy—golden, glossy perfection!
Step 4: Add Eggs and Zest
Next, incorporate three large eggs one at a time into the butter and sugar mixture, making sure to mix well after each addition. Once combined, zest one large orange and fold this fragrant zest into the mix. This addition will brighten the flavor profile of your Cranberry Orange Spice Cake and make it irresistibly aromatic.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1 cup of milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture to maintain even consistency. Each addition should be mixed just until combined; be careful not to overmix! Finally, gently fold in 2 cups of fresh cranberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye out for a light golden color; this indicates your Cranberry Orange Spice Cake is ready!
Step 7: Cool Down
Once baked, remove the layers from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely. This step is essential; letting the cakes cool adequately ensures they won’t crumble when you assemble your dessert.
Step 8: Make the Buttercream
While the cake layers cool, prepare your frosting. Melt 8 ounces of high-quality white chocolate in a microwave or over a double boiler, making sure it doesn’t get too hot. In a mixing bowl, beat the melted chocolate with 1 cup of unsalted butter, 4 cups of powdered sugar, and 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice until smooth and creamy. The frosting should appear glossy and spreadable.
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake layers are completely cool, begin the assembly by placing one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of the white chocolate buttercream over the top, then add the second layer and repeat. Finish by placing the last layer on top and frost the entire cake, making sure to smooth out the sides.
Step 10: Decorate and Serve
For a festive touch, decorate your Cranberry Orange Spice Cake with extra fresh cranberries or orange slices on top. Once decorated, let it sit for about 30 minutes to set. This cake can be served at room temperature or slightly chilled, making it a delightful centerpiece for your holiday celebrations!
Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Spice Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a fluffy cake. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to seize up, resulting in a dense texture.
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Fresh Cranberries Matter: Use fresh cranberries for vibrant flavor and color. If using frozen cranberries, add them directly from the freezer to maintain their shape in the cake.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to a tough texture in your Cranberry Orange Spice Cake.
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Check for Doneness: Always test your cake layers with a toothpick. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready. Baking too long can dry it out.
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Buttercream Consistency: Ensure your melted white chocolate cools slightly before mixing with the butter and sugar; this will help you avoid a greasy or overly runny buttercream.
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Decorate Playfully: Have fun with your decorations! Simple touches like extra cranberries or orange slices can elevate the festive feel of this delicious cake.
Cranberry Orange Spice Cake Variations
Feel free to explore the delightful possibilities in customizing your Cranberry Orange Spice Cake! The magic truly begins when you give this recipe your personal touch.
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Champagne Buttercream: Swap the white chocolate frosting for champagne buttercream to add a mimosa-inspired twist. The bubbles from the champagne will elevate the flavor like a festive party in your mouth!
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Spice it Up: For a stronger spice flavor, simply add ground cinnamon along with the cloves. The warm, cozy aroma will make your kitchen feel like a holiday haven.
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Citrus Swap: Experiment with different citrus fruits, such as lemon or lime, for a refreshing variation. Each fruit brings its unique brightness, creating a delightful twist that can surprise your taste buds!
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Nut-Free Option: Replace the butter with a nut-free vegan alternative to make this cake suitable for those with nut allergies. You’ll still enjoy a luscious and moist cake without compromising flavor!
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Cake Flour Swap: Use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour for an ultra-light and fluffy texture. Your cake will be so tender, it might just melt in your mouth, making it a true indulgence.
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Tropical Vibes: Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical flair. This unexpected addition will give your cake a sweet, chewy twist that pairs beautifully with the citrus.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Top your cake with chocolate ganache instead of buttercream for an irresistible chocolate-citrus combination. The rich chocolate flavor will complement the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute the milk for almond milk and the butter for coconut oil to make a completely dairy-free cake without sacrificing its delightful moisture.
Feel inspired? As you customize, consider pairing your cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an even more Divine dessert experience! For festive gatherings, don’t miss out on trying out the Strawberry Cheesecake or the charming Surprise Inside Cakes for delightful contrasts!
What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Spice Cake
Bring your holiday gatherings to life with delightful pairings that complement this festive cake experience.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a creamy texture that balances the tartness of the cranberries, enhancing each forkful of cake.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing melts beautifully atop a warm slice, creating a symphony of flavors that’s truly irresistible during the festive season.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: For an extra tangy kick, consider a light cream cheese frosting. It contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the cake, offering a delightful richness.
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Fresh Citrus Salad: A medley of oranges and grapefruit tossed in a touch of honey provides a refreshing, zesty contrast, heightening the cake’s vibrant citrus notes.
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Candied Pecans: Crunchy, sweet pecans sprinkled on top or served alongside add a delightful crunch, complementing the cake’s moistness and festive flavors.
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Mimosa Cocktail: Toast the season with a light mimosa made from fresh orange juice and sparkling wine. Its bubbly nature enhances the cake while celebrating the joyous occasion.
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Mulled Wine: For a warm beverage option, serve mulled wine infused with spices. It shares a cozy vibe, bringing warmth and comfort to your dessert table.
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Orange Zest Dusting: Simply dust the cake with orange zest before serving. This brightens up the flavors and creates an aromatic allure that invites everyone in for a slice.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Spice Cake
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Room Temperature: If you plan to serve the cake within a day, store it at room temperature under a cake dome or wrapped in plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
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Fridge: For longer-lasting freshness, refrigerate the assembled Cranberry Orange Spice Cake in an airtight container. It’s best consumed within 3-5 days for optimal flavor and texture.
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Freezer: To freeze, wrap each cake layer tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before frosting.
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Reheating: If you enjoy your cake warm, slice a piece and pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This practice enhances the delightful flavors of the cake.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Cranberry Orange Spice Cake in advance can save you valuable time during busy holiday festivities. You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days before you plan to serve—just be sure to let them cool completely before wrapping each layer tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness. The white chocolate buttercream can also be made up to 48 hours ahead and stored in the refrigerator; simply allow it to come to room temperature and re-whip before frosting. When ready to assemble, place the layers on a serving plate, frost with the buttercream, and add any decorative touches. This way, you’ll achieve a charming centerpiece with minimal last-minute effort, ensuring your Cranberry Orange Spice Cake is just as delicious and festive!
Cranberry Orange Spice Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use for the cake?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh cranberries for their vibrant color and tartness, which really elevates the flavor of the Cranberry Orange Spice Cake. If you can’t find them, frozen cranberries work too—just toss them in straight from the freezer to keep their shape during baking.
How do I store the cake after baking?
To keep your cake fresh, store it at room temperature under a cake dome or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap if you plan to enjoy it within a day. For longer storage, place the assembled Cranberry Orange Spice Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will taste best within 3-5 days, but it will still be delightful up to a week later!
Can I freeze the cake layers?
Yes, you can! To freeze the cake layers, first make sure they are completely cooled. Then, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge before frosting and assembling.
What can I do if my buttercream is too runny?
If your buttercream ends up too runny, don’t fret! Let it chill in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This will help it firm up. If it’s still not the right consistency, gradually mix in additional powdered sugar until you reach the desired thickness. Just remember to give it a good beat after adding any sugar to ensure a smooth texture.
Is this cake suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes, this Cranberry Orange Spice Cake can be made nut-free quite easily as it doesn’t contain any nuts in its ingredients. However, be cautious and double-check your baking ingredients, particularly if you’re using other products like milk or butter, which can sometimes be processed in facilities that handle nuts.
Can I use alternative sweeteners in the cake or frosting?
Certainly! If you’re looking for a lower-sugar alternative, you can experiment with sugar substitutes in both the cake and frosting. Brands like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener work well. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may be slightly different, so it’s worth testing to see what you enjoy best!
Cranberry Orange Spice Cake for Festive Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cloves.
- In a large bowl, beat unsalted butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then fold in orange zest.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with the wet mixture, alternating with milk.
- Fold in the cranberries until evenly distributed.
- Divide the batter among the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Let the cake layers cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
- Melt white chocolate and mix with butter, powdered sugar, and orange juice to make buttercream.
- Assemble the cake by layering and frosting with white chocolate buttercream.
- Decorate with fresh cranberries or orange slices before serving.