If you're looking for a delightful treat that blends the tartness of cranberries with the brightness of orange, the Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake is a perfect choice. This moist cake not only makes for a delicious breakfast but also serves as a satisfying snack. With a crumbly topping and a soft interior, it's an impressive addition to any gathering. Curious about how to make this flavorful cake? Let's explore the recipe and all its delightful possibilities.
Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Combine fresh cranberries and orange juice for a tart and zesty flavor in the cake.
- Use softened butter and sugar to create a light and fluffy batter.
- Fold in chopped cranberries before pouring the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Prepare a crumbly topping with brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and butter for added texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container or freeze slices for future enjoyment.
How To Make It – Recipe
To make a delightful Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake, you'll combine the tartness of fresh cranberries with the zesty brightness of orange, resulting in a perfect treat for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. This coffee cake is moist, flavorful, and makes a wonderful accompaniment to your favorite cup of coffee or tea.
The combination of sweet and tart flavors will tantalize your taste buds, while the aromatic hints of orange will fill your kitchen with a warm and inviting scent. This recipe is straightforward and can be whipped up in no time. Ideal for gatherings or family brunch, it's sure to impress your guests. Additionally, this cake is reminiscent of a delicious cranberry dump cake, which also highlights the beauty of cranberries in a simple dessert.
With a crumbly topping and a soft interior, this coffee cake is a satisfying choice that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Follow the steps below to create this scrumptious dessert.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, chopped
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping)
- 1/4 cup flour (for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
- 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed (for topping)
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs, orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Fold in the chopped cranberries.
Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. For the topping, mix together the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a bowl, then cut in the cold cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the topping over the batter in the baking dish.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
For best results, make sure that your butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. Using fresh cranberries adds a burst of flavor, but if they're out of season, frozen cranberries can also work well; just don't thaw them before adding.
Serve the cake warm or at room temperature, and consider drizzling a simple icing made of powdered sugar and orange juice over the top for an extra touch of sweetness. Enjoy your baking!
Substitution Suggestions
If you're looking to customize your Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake, there are plenty of substitution options that can cater to different dietary needs or simply switch up the flavors.
For a gluten-free version, consider using flour alternatives like almond or coconut flour. They add unique flavors and textures, making your cake delightful. Additionally, you might find that using a gluten free flour blend can yield a wonderfully moist and flavorful cake that everyone will love.
If you want to reduce sugar, explore sweetener options like honey, maple syrup, or stevia. These can enhance the sweetness without the calories.
Experimenting with these substitutions not only personalizes your coffee cake but also allows you to create a healthier treat that everyone will enjoy.
Decorating Ideas
While the aroma of your freshly baked Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake fills the kitchen, consider how you can elevate its appearance with some simple decorating ideas.
For frosting options, a light glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice can add a zesty touch. Alternatively, cream cheese frosting offers richness that complements the tart cranberries beautifully. Adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar can provide an extra layer of flavor and a delightful crunch.
For topping ideas, sprinkle chopped nuts or coconut for texture, or scatter fresh cranberries and orange zest for a pop of color. Dusting with powdered sugar just before serving creates an elegant finish.
With these ideas, your coffee cake will be as visually enticing as it's delicious!
Serving Suggestions
As you prepare to serve your Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake, consider pairing it with a delightful array of accompaniments that enhance its flavors.
A hot cup of spiced coffee or a smooth latte makes for perfect coffee pairings, elevating your cake experience. For festive occasions, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a decadent treat.
Fresh orange slices or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can also brighten the presentation and taste. These thoughtful additions not only complement the cake's tartness but also add a festive flair to your gathering. Additionally, the Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake is another delicious option that features similar flavors.
Enjoy!
Make-Ahead and Storage
To make your gathering even smoother, consider preparing your Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake in advance.
The make-ahead benefits are fantastic; you can whip it up a day or two before your event, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, this cake is deliciously moist thanks to the inclusion of fresh cranberries.
Once baked, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. For best freshness, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to extend its life, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before serving, ensuring every bite is moist and delicious!
How to Store Leftovers
After you've enjoyed your delicious Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake, you'll want to make sure any leftovers are stored properly to keep them fresh for later.
For ideal leftover storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. It's important to note that dried cranberries can help enhance the cake's flavor while also contributing to its moisture retention.
If you plan to store it for more than a few days, consider freezing individual slices for easy access. Just remember to label your container with the date for cake preservation.
When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it gently in the oven.
Nutrition Facts(per serving)
When you savor a slice of Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake, you're not just indulging in a delightful treat; you're also consuming a variety of nutrients. Each serving typically contains around 250 calories, making it a satisfying option without overindulging.
The ingredient breakdown includes whole grain flour, providing fiber, and fresh cranberries, which are packed with antioxidants. The zesty orange adds a vitamin C boost, while the sugar and butter contribute to its rich flavor. Additionally, the use of whole grain flour enhances the nutritional profile, making this cake not only delicious but also a healthier choice.
Enjoying this cake allows you to relish a balance of taste and nutrition, ensuring that each bite is as wholesome as it's delicious.
Final Thoughts
As you take in the delightful aroma of freshly baked Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake, it's easy to appreciate how this treat can elevate any occasion. This cake's vibrant flavor pairings of tart cranberries and zesty orange make it a crowd-pleaser. Remember, using fresh ingredients enhances the overall taste, and don't shy away from experimenting with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth. For best results, follow these baking tips: measure accurately and avoid overmixing to keep your cake tender. Additionally, incorporating fresh cranberries not only adds flavor but also provides a beautiful pop of color to your cake. Enjoy sharing this scrumptious coffee cake with friends and family, and watch it become a cherished recipe in your collection!
Recipe FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries in This Recipe?
You can use frozen cranberries in your recipe. Just remember to toss them in a bit of flour before adding them. This baking tip helps prevent them from sinking and guarantees even distribution throughout your dish.
What Dairy Alternatives Can I Use for This Cake?
You can substitute almond milk for regular milk and use coconut yogurt in place of sour cream. These alternatives will keep your cake moist and flavorful while adding a delightful, subtle twist to the overall taste.
How Long Does It Take to Bake?
Did you know that most cakes bake in about 25 to 35 minutes? For ideal cake texture, keep an eye on it; a toothpick should come out clean when it's perfectly baked.
Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?
Absolutely, you can make this cake gluten-free! Use gluten-free substitutes like almond flour or a blend, and remember to adjust baking times. Follow these baking tips for a delicious, fluffy texture that everyone will enjoy!
What Can I Serve With Cranberry Orange Coffee Cake?
You can serve cranberry orange coffee cake with a rich coffee pairing, like a dark roast or flavored latte. Fresh fruit or whipped cream also makes delightful serving suggestions that enhance its zesty, sweet flavors beautifully.
