A warm slice of Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake is like a cozy hug on a chilly day. Imagine the sweet-tart burst of cranberries mingling with a citrusy zing, all wrapped up in a fluffy cake that practically dances on your taste buds. cranberry mousse cups The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have you dreaming of holiday gatherings and cozy afternoons spent with loved ones.
This delightful treat brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where the scent of fresh oranges and baking goods filled the air. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving or just need an excuse to indulge, this cake will make every moment feel special and delicious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
- Its flavor profile balances sweetness with a hint of tartness that keeps you coming back for more.
- The beautiful presentation makes it a showstopper at any gathering or family dinner.
- Plus, this cake is versatile enough to serve at breakfast, dessert, or even as a snack!
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake
For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Poppy Seed Cake recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; sift it to avoid lumps and ensure even mixing.
- Baking Powder: A must-have leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully.
- Brown Sugar: Provides rich sweetness and moisture; dark brown sugar adds an extra depth of flavor.
- Cranberries: Fresh or frozen work well; they add tartness and vibrant color.
- Oranges: Zest and juice for that bright citrus flavor; use fresh oranges for the best taste.
- Eggs: Bind everything together while giving the cake its lovely texture.
- Butter: Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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). Grab a trusty 9-inch round cake pan and grease it with some butter or nonstick spray. This will ensure your masterpiece doesn’t get stuck!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and brown sugar. Give it a whisk until well mixed—this step is crucial for achieving that dreamy texture!
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the softened butter, eggs, orange juice, and zest until creamy. Slowly incorporate this mixture into the dry ingredients with gentle folds to keep it light and fluffy.
Step 4: Fold in Cranberries
Gently fold in those glorious cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Feel free to sneak a few cranberries for yourself—they’re like little bursts of joy!
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, let it cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack. Slice yourself a generous piece—go ahead; you deserve it! This cake pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.
Enjoy each bite as you relish in its delightful flavors!
You Must Know
- This delicious Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also a feast for the eyes.
- With its vibrant colors and delightful aromas, it will brighten any gathering.
- Perfect for holidays or cozy afternoons with coffee.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another. Combine them gently, then fold in the cranberries and orange zest before pouring into a greased cake pan. Bake until golden brown.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cranberries for blueberries or raspberries if you prefer. A splash of vanilla extract can add depth, while chopped nuts can give a satisfying crunch. Customize the sweetness by adjusting the brown sugar to your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 15 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture; frozen ones can turn mushy during baking.
- Always measure your ingredients accurately to ensure consistent results every time.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing to maintain its shape and moisture.
Nothing feels better than seeing my family gather around the table, eyes wide with excitement as they take their first bites of this cake—it’s pure joy wrapped in sweetness!
FAQs:
What is the best way to store Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake?
To keep your Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you live in a humid area, refrigeration may be necessary to prevent spoilage. You can also freeze slices of the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can I substitute ingredients in the Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake recipe?
Yes, you can customize your Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake by substituting some ingredients. For instance, if you don’t have brown sugar, white sugar can work but will alter the flavor slightly. white chocolate orange truffles Additionally, you could use dried cranberries instead of fresh ones or even replace orange juice with lemon juice for a different citrus taste. lemon blueberry dump cake.
How long does it take to bake Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake?
Baking a Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake typically takes about 50 to 60 minutes at 350°F (175°C). However, baking times may vary depending on your oven and the size of your cake pan. To ensure it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Can I make Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare your Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake a day in advance. After baking, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. This will help retain moisture and flavors. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature before serving for the best taste experience.
Conclusion for Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake:
In conclusion, the Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake is a delightful dessert that combines vibrant flavors and moist texture. By following this recipe, you’ll create a delicious treat perfect for any occasion. Cranberry orange cupcakes Remember to store it properly and feel free to make ingredient substitutions as needed. Enjoy this luscious cake with family and friends, making lasting memories over every slice!
Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake
Cranberry Orange Brown Sugar Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly marries the sweet-tart flavor of cranberries with the zesty brightness of oranges. This moist, fluffy cake is an ideal companion for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons enjoyed with family and friends. The irresistible aroma wafting from your kitchen will have everyone eager to indulge in this delicious treat, making it a showstopper at any event.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- Zest and juice of 2 medium oranges
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and brown sugar until combined.
- In another bowl, mix softened butter, eggs, orange juice, and zest until creamy.
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg






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