Irresistible Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake Recipe

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There’s a moment in every kitchen when you find yourself staring into the abyss of your pantry, wondering what to whip up for dessert. Let me tell you, that moment can lead to some spectacular culinary adventures, especially when the stars align and you stumble upon the perfect combination of flavors. Enter the Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake: a delightful treat that marries the tartness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of oranges and a heavenly sprinkle of brown sugar. chewy ginger cookies Picture this: a warm slice fresh from the oven, its aroma wafting through your home like a sweet embrace on a chilly afternoon.

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Every bite transports you back to family gatherings, where laughter mingles with the scent of freshly baked goodies wafting in from the kitchen. This cake is not just dessert; it’s a celebration! Perfect for cozy brunches, festive parties, or even just because you deserve something sweet today. Trust me; your taste buds are about to embark on an adventure they won’t soon forget.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake is wonderfully easy to make, so you won’t spend hours slaving away in the kitchen.
  • The flavor profile combines sweet and tart elements that dance together in perfect harmony.
  • Its beautiful golden hue and vibrant cranberries make it visually stunning, sure to impress anyone at your table.
  • Versatile enough to be served warm with ice cream or cold with coffee, this cake is an all-around winner!

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake

For more inspiration, check out this Hot Honey Chicken recipe.

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

  1. All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of your cake; choose unbleached flour for better flavor.
  2. Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that lovely crumb texture in your cake.
  3. Brown Sugar: The star of our show! It adds moisture and rich caramel notes.
  4. Baking Powder: Essential for leavening; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
  5. Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness perfectly.
  6. Eggs: These bind everything together while adding richness.
  7. Unsalted Butter: Use melted butter for moistness and flavor; let it cool slightly before adding.
  8. Orange Zest: Freshly grated zest brightens up the cake and elevates its flavor.
  9. Cranberries: Fresh or frozen work well; they add that tart punch we’re looking for!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake

How to Make Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or line it with parchment paper so your cake doesn’t stick like an unwanted guest at a party.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and salt until well combined. This is where we build our flavorful foundation!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together eggs, melted butter, orange zest, and a splash of vanilla extract until smooth. Trust me; this combination smells like sunshine!

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want that fluffy texture!

Step 5: Fold in Cranberries

Gently fold in those beautiful cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter. You’ll feel like an artist painting with vibrant colors as you do this!

Step 6: Bake Away

Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan and bake for about 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Try not to open the oven door too often—your cake needs some alone time!

Once baked, let it cool slightly before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it as is with your morning coffee. It’s delightful any time of day!

You Must Know

  • This delightful cranberry orange brown sugar cake is a game-changer for dessert lovers.
  • It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any occasion.
  • Its sweet and tangy flavors will brighten up your table and your mood, making it a must-try!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you mix the dry ingredients. Beat together the wet ingredients, then combine them with the dry mixture for a seamless batter. Pour it into a greased pan, and watch it rise like your hopes on a Monday morning!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the cranberries for blueberries or add a hint of nutmeg for extra warmth. A sprinkle of chopped nuts on top before baking can add a delightful crunch. Personalize this cake to suit your taste and impress your guests!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for up to a week. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, bringing back that fresh-out-of-the-oven goodness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Use fresh cranberries for vibrant flavor; frozen ones tend to be mushy.
  • Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
  • Don’t overmix the batter; it can make your cake dense instead of fluffy.

Nothing beats the joy of sharing this cranberry orange brown sugar cake with friends at my last dinner party. citrus radicchio salad Their smiles were as bright as the citrusy aroma wafting through my kitchen—it was a hit!

FAQs :

What ingredients are needed for Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake?

To make a delicious Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake, you will need flour, brown sugar, fresh cranberries, orange zest, eggs, butter, baking powder, and vanilla extract. These ingredients combine to create a moist and flavorful cake that perfectly balances the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of brown sugar. classic apple pie Ensure your cranberries are fresh for the best taste. You can also add nuts or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor.

How do I store leftover Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake?

After baking, allow the Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil to maintain its moisture. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months. Thaw frozen cake in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I substitute ingredients in the Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake recipe?

Yes, you can make several substitutions in the Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake recipe. If you don’t have brown sugar, consider using white sugar with a bit of molasses for a similar flavor. You can also replace fresh cranberries with dried ones if necessary; just be sure to adjust the sweetness accordingly. Additionally, dairy-free alternatives like almond milk or coconut oil can work well if you’re following a specific diet. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Poppy Seed Cake recipe.

What is the best way to serve Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake?

Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake is delicious on its own or served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an elegant touch, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving. Pairing it with a cup of tea or coffee enhances its flavors and makes it perfect for gatherings or special occasions. Enjoying it warm from the oven adds an extra layer of comfort.

Conclusion for Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake :

In summary, making a delightful Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake is simple and rewarding. This cake merges sweet and tangy flavors beautifully, creating a perfect dessert for any occasion. Use fresh ingredients for optimal taste and feel free to customize it with nuts or spices. fudgy pumpkin brownies Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy this treat even longer! Whether served plain or adorned with toppings, this cake is sure to impress your guests and delight your taste buds.

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Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake


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  • Author: Clare Schmidt
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: Serves about 10 slices 1x

Description

Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake is a delightful dessert that beautifully balances the tartness of cranberries and the brightness of oranges, all enveloped in rich brown sugar. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion, from cozy brunches to festive gatherings. With its warm, inviting aroma and vibrant appearance, every slice promises a burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. Enjoy it warm with ice cream or alongside your morning coffee for a truly comforting experience.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.
  3. In another bowl, beat together eggs, melted butter, orange zest, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
  5. Fold in the cranberries until evenly distributed.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 43g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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