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–+ servings
Christmas Orange Cranberry Cake

The Best Christmas Orange Cranberry Cake for Cozy Holiday Bliss

Enjoy the festive flavors of Christmas Orange Cranberry Cake with its zesty aroma and delightful texture. A perfect holiday dessert.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake Batter
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour use fresh, sifted flour for a light, tender crumb
  • 1 cup granulated sugar balances the tartness of cranberries
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder ensures the cake rises perfectly
  • 1 teaspoon salt enhances all the flavors
  • 2 teaspoons orange zest delivers a fresh pop of flavor
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries provides the signature tart bursts
  • 3 large eggs binds the ingredients and adds richness
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened for a smooth batter
  • 1 cup buttermilk adds a tender crumb and slight tang
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract rounds out the flavor profile
For the Glaze (Optional)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar blends into a sweet glaze
  • 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice thins the glaze
  • 1 teaspoon orange zest adds a fragrant garnish

Equipment

  • 9-inch or bundt pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • wire rack

Method
 

How to Make Christmas Orange Cranberry Cake
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch or bundt pan with butter, then dust with flour.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together sifted all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat unsalted butter with orange zest until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  4. Gradually beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract until smooth.
  5. Alternately fold in buttermilk and dry mixture, mixing gently until smooth.
  6. Gently fold in fresh cranberries to distribute evenly throughout the batter.
  7. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45–50 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
  8. Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack and cool completely for at least 30 minutes.
  9. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, and optional orange zest until smooth for the glaze.
  10. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake and let it set for 5 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Optional: Top with whipped cream and extra fresh cranberries for extra flair.

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