As I breezed through my local farmer’s market, the vibrant scarlet hues of fresh cranberries caught my eye, instantly sparking a sweet idea. Today, I’m thrilled to share my Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream—a delightful dessert that perfectly balances zesty orange and tart cranberry flavors. Not only does this cake look stunning on any table, but it also delivers on taste and texture, boasting a moist, fluffy crumb that feels like a warm hug. It’s a fantastic choice for those busy days when you want to bring something special to the table without the fuss. Curious how the citrusy aroma and creamy frosting can elevate your next gathering? Keep reading, and let’s make some magic in the kitchen!
Why is this cake a must-try?
Vibrant Flavors: The sweet and tart combination of fresh cranberries and zesty orange creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone wanting more!
Impressive Presentation: Elevate your dessert game! This stunning layer cake is perfect for impressing guests at any gathering, making it a true centerpiece.
Easy to Make: Don’t let its beauty fool you—this cake is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers.
Versatile Delight: Customize your cake with different fruit fillings or nuts for a unique twist! For a delightful seasonal taste, try making Cranberry Sausage Stuffing alongside it for a complete holiday feast.
Perfect for All Occasions: From holiday parties to casual afternoon tea, this cake fits perfectly into any event, ensuring it will be a crowd-pleaser.
Cranberry Orange Layer Cake Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create this Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream.
For the Cake
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cake; for gluten-free, consider a 1:1 flour substitute.
• Baking Powder – Essential leavening agent; always check the freshness for the best rise.
• Baking Soda – Helps create a light texture when paired with acidic ingredients.
• Salt – Naturally enhances the cake’s flavors.
• Unsalted Butter – Richness in every bite; make sure it’s softened for easy creaming. Substitution: Vegan butter works for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and helps achieve a fluffy consistency.
• Eggs – Provide moisture and bind the ingredients together; necessary for structure. Substitution: Use flax eggs for a vegan version (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
• Orange Zest – Adds a bright citrus aroma and flavor; don’t skip this for maximum impact!
• Orange Juice – Moistens the cake and boosts the orange essence.
• Buttermilk – Keeps your cake tender; substitute with milk plus a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice if needed.
• Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – Gives a tart surprise in the filling; if using frozen, make sure they’re thawed first.
For the Citrus Buttercream
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and helps achieve a smooth, fluffy texture for the icing.
• Vanilla Extract – A little goes a long way in enhancing the flavors of both the cake and frosting.
• Additional Orange Juice and Zest – For that delightful citrus kick in the buttercream; feel free to adjust to taste.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grease three 8-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray, ensuring they are well-coated to prevent sticking. Set the pans aside, as they will be ready for the batter shortly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This mixture provides the necessary lift and structure for your Cranberry Orange Layer Cake. Whisk until combined, ensuring there are no lumps, and set it aside for later use.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Cream these ingredients for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, turning a pale yellow. This aeration is essential for a moist cake, so take your time before moving to the next step.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Flavor
Add in 4 large eggs, incorporating each one individually to ensure they blend well. Next, mix in the zest of one large orange, ½ cup of orange juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Blend these flavors into the creamed mixture until smooth, creating a vibrant mixture that adds depth to the cake.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup of buttermilk. Start and finish with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cake light. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick, with beautiful flecks of orange zest throughout.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as they bake, and enjoy the delightful citrus aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 7: Prepare the Cranberry Filling
While the cakes cool, make the filling by combining 1 cup of fresh or thawed frozen cranberries, ½ cup of sugar, ½ cup of orange juice, and the zest of 1 orange in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens—around 8-10 minutes. Allow it to cool completely before using.
Step 8: Make the Citrus Buttercream
To create the Citrus Buttercream, start by beating 1 cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar, followed by 3 tablespoons of orange juice and the zest of one orange, mixing on low speed until combined. Increase to medium speed and beat until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of Citrus Buttercream on top, followed by a layer of cranberry filling. Repeat with the second layer, and finish by placing the third layer on top. Frost the entire cake with the remaining Citrus Buttercream, making it smooth and inviting.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Optional: Garnish your stunning Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with additional orange zest or fresh cranberries for a festive touch. Slice and serve to your family and friends, watching their smiles as they enjoy this beautiful celebration of flavors.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Layer Cake
Fridge: Store leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the cake moist and preserves the vibrant flavors of the Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Make-Ahead: The cake layers can be baked a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge until you’re ready to frost and assemble the cake.
Reheating: If desired, gently warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy a cozy dessert experience. Remember to savor every bite!
What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream
Picture a delightful gathering around the table, where the sweet aroma of citrus mingles with joyous laughter—it’s the perfect setup for a meal that pairs beautifully with this stunning layer cake.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery, they offer a comforting counterpart to the cake’s tartness, creating a balanced spread.
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Zesty Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, oranges, and a light vinaigrette brightens the meal, complementing the cake’s citrusy notes beautifully. The refreshing crunch keeps your palate engaged.
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Herb-Roasted Chicken: This savory dish adds a rich and hearty element to your meal, making it not only satisfying but a perfect balance for the cake’s sweetness.
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Sparkling White Wine: The bubbly nature of sparkling wine cuts through the cake’s richness, refreshing your taste buds and elevating the entire experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream alongside a slice of cake creates a heavenly dessert experience where cool meets creamy.
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Citrus Sorbet: For a refreshing twist, serve sorbet that mirrors the cake’s flavors, providing a light and fruity finish that leaves guests happy and satisfied.
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Tea or Coffee: These warm beverages complement the cake perfectly, enhancing the citrus flavors while providing a cozy finale to your festive gathering.
Indulging in these delightful pairings will ensure your Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream shines as the star of the meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; just allow them to cool completely and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. The cranberry filling can be made up to 3 days early, stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to serve, simply prepare the Citrus Buttercream and assemble the cake. By prepping ahead, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.
Cranberry Orange Layer Cake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you put your own twist on this delightful cake!
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Berry Bliss: Substitute cranberries with blueberries or raspberries for a lovely fruity twist. The sweetness of berries balances wonderfully with the citrus notes.
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Lemon Zest: For a refreshing change, opt for lemon zest in place of orange. This will create a bright and zesty cake that sings of sunshine!
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for an inviting crunch. The nuts add texture and depth to every glorious slice.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Swap out regular butter with vegan butter and use plant-based milk instead of buttermilk. You’ll keep the flavor while making it suitable for dairy-free diets!
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Choco-Orange Fusion: Add in chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful contrast of flavors. The combination of chocolate and orange creates a decadent experience.
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Spicy Kick: A dash of cinnamon or ginger can add a warming touch to your cake! Just a pinch will elevate the flavor profile without overpowering its citrus essence.
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Cranberry Sauce Filling: Instead of cooking cranberries, layer the cake with freshly made or store-bought cranberry sauce for a tangy surprise that adds moisture and richness.
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Layer Up: Consider stacking more than three layers for a truly show-stopping cake! Each slice will be an impressive tower of vibrant flavors and textures.
Looking for more creative ideas? Try pairing this delicious cake with Coconut Curry Soup or a festive Orange Maple Glazed side dish to make your gathering even more special!
Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Layer Cake
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your cranberries are fresh for a tart kick. If using frozen, thaw them fully for even cooking.
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Room Temperature Eggs: Bringing your eggs to room temperature helps them incorporate better into the batter, ensuring a light and fluffy cake.
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Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold in your dry ingredients—overmixing can lead to a dense Cranberry Orange Layer Cake instead of a light one.
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Cool Completely: Always let your cake layers cool completely before frosting. This prevents the buttercream from melting and sliding off.
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Flavor Boost: Add more orange zest to your buttercream for a stronger citrus flavor—a little extra zest goes a long way!
Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cranberries?
Absolutely! When selecting cranberries, look for berries that are firm, plump, and have a bright red color. Avoid any that have dark spots or a shriveled appearance, as these may be overripe. Fresh cranberries are typically available from late September to December, which is perfect for making this delightful cake.
How should I store the Cranberry Orange Layer Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This will help maintain the moisture and preserve the wonderful flavors of the cake and Citrus Buttercream. If the cake is whole, you can cover it with plastic wrap to ensure it remains fresh.
Can I freeze the Cranberry Orange Layer Cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will protect the cake from freezer burn and keep it delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw the slices in the fridge overnight for the best texture.
How do I prevent the cake from becoming dense?
Great question! To avoid a dense Cranberry Orange Layer Cake, be careful not to overmix your batter. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated, and remember that the butter should be well-creamed to help incorporate air. Using room temperature eggs also helps create a lighter texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! This cake is vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by substituting ingredients like eggs (using flax eggs) and butter (with vegan butter). Additionally, ensure that your powdered sugar is free from bone char if strict vegetarianism is a concern. Always check labels for allergy information if serving to guests with specific dietary needs.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake layers. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), your cake is ready! Keep in mind that baking times may vary slightly, so be vigilant during that last stretch of baking.
Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, beat together the soft butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing in the orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add in the flour mixture and buttermilk, alternating until just combined.
- Divide batter among the prepared pans and bake for 22-25 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the filling, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and zest in a saucepan and cook until cranberries burst and thicken.
- For the buttercream, beat softened butter, powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest until light and fluffy.
- Once cooled, layer the cake with buttercream and cranberry filling, finishing with frosting all around.
- Optional: Garnish with additional orange zest or cranberries before serving.
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