Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe

If you’ve been searching for the perfect treat to brighten up your mornings, the Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe is exactly what your breakfast table needs. This cake is a delightful balance of zesty orange and tart cranberries, wrapped in a tender, moist crumb that feels just right for a cozy morning gathering or a leisurely weekend brunch. The burst of fresh fruit combined with a light sweetness makes it feel indulgent yet wholesome, inviting you to savor every bite. Trust me, once you try this Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe is made with simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a vibrant and flavorful treat. Each one plays a crucial role: the flour and leavening agents give the cake its soft structure, the butter and Greek yogurt keep it moist and tender, while the fresh cranberries and orange zest provide a burst of brightness and color.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake’s soft crumb and structure.
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully, giving it a light texture.
• ½ tsp baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to ensure perfect leavening.
• ¼ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the tart fruit.
• ½ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream: Keeps the cake moist with a subtle tang that complements the cranberries.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and a lovely tender bite.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure while keeping it tender.
• Zest from 1 large orange: Provides fragrant citrus notes that tantalize the senses.
• ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice: Deepens the orange flavor and adds extra moisture.
• 1 ½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries (halved if large): The star ingredient, offering bright bursts of tart flavor and beautiful color.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, prepare a 9×9-inch baking dish by greasing it well and dusting with flour or lining it with parchment paper. This ensures your cake will release easily once baked, no sticking or frustration involved.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures your leavening agents are evenly distributed, which helps your cake rise uniformly and maintain a light texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which contributes to the cake’s tender crumb—take your time here, about 3 to 5 minutes is perfect.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Orange Flavor

Add the eggs one at a time to your butter and sugar mix, beating well after each addition to combine fully. Next, stir in the fragrant orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice. These ingredients infuse the batter with that iconic citrus brightness that defines this cake.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together. Gradually fold the dry flour mixture into your wet ingredients, alternating with the Greek yogurt or sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Be gentle here and fold just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake tough.

Step 6: Fold in Cranberries

Carefully fold the fresh or frozen cranberries into the batter. These bursts of tartness will beautifully contrast with the sweet and citrusy cake, making each bite exciting and fresh.

Step 7: Bake It

Pour the thick, luscious batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake will be golden and fragrant, filling your kitchen with the most inviting aroma.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This brief rest helps the cake set up nicely. Serve it warm or at room temperature—either way, it’s a win!

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar is all you need to elevate this cake’s look and add a delicate sweetness. For extra flair, a few fresh cranberries or thin orange slices on top create a stunning presentation that promises a flavorful bite.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a freshly brewed pot of tea. For more substance, serve alongside creamy yogurt or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the tart and sweet notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch spread, serve the Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe in small squares with an array of jams or citrus curds. You could also layer pieces with yogurt and granola in parfait glasses to make a visually stunning treat everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cake covered tightly at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week. Proper storage ensures that the cake remains moist and fresh, ready for your next indulgent bite.

Freezing

This breakfast cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature, preserving every bit of flavor and texture.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a low oven for 5-10 minutes to revive that freshly baked feeling. A quick reheat transforms leftovers into a cozy morning treat in no time.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh. Just be sure not to thaw them fully before folding them in, so your batter doesn’t get overly watery.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt or sour cream?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt or sour cream on hand, you can use buttermilk or a mix of milk and a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute. These options help keep the cake moist and tender.

Is this cake suitable for a special occasion breakfast?

Definitely! Its vibrant flavors and beautiful appearance make it perfect for festive breakfasts or brunches. Garnished thoughtfully, it can be a standout dish for holidays or weekend gatherings.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to bake in a larger pan or two 9×9-inch pans. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly and test for doneness with a toothpick.

How can I make the cake more festive?

Add a glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice drizzled on top, or sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for crunch. Fresh rosemary sprigs can also add a lovely fragrant touch for holiday mornings.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe is truly a gem that brings sunshine and cheer to your morning routine. With its perfect balance of citrus and tart cranberry flavors, alongside a moist, tender cake, it’s an easy yet impressive treat to whip up any day of the week. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed how such simple ingredients can create something so utterly comforting and crave-worthy.

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