Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake is moist, fluffy, and bursting with fresh cranberries and vibrant orange zest. This bright, citrusy morning cake strikes the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it ideal for holiday brunches, cozy weekends, or make-ahead weekday breakfasts. When you take a bite, the juicy cranberries and zesty orange flavor awaken your senses, making every morning feel special. It’s not just a cake; it’s a celebration of flavors that can brighten your day.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

This Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake offers numerous benefits that make it a must-try. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it one of the best cranberry orange breakfast recipes. The combination of fresh cranberries and orange zest creates a delightful explosion of flavor in every bite. Additionally, it’s a moist cranberry orange cake recipe that stays fresh for days. Perfect for brunch gatherings, this cake presents beautifully and is sure to impress your guests. You can also enjoy it as a healthy option with a few modifications for healthy cranberry orange breakfast ideas. Lastly, this cake is versatile, allowing you to pair it with coffee, tea, or even as a dessert.

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

Gather these items:

½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup fresh orange juice
1 tablespoon orange zest
1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1½ cups fresh or frozen cranberries (do not thaw if frozen)
Optional Orange Glaze: ½ cup powdered sugar
1–2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

How to Make Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Beat in eggs one at a time. Stir in sour cream, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold into wet mixture until just combined.
Step 5: Gently fold in cranberries. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
Step 6: Bake 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Let cool completely. Mix powdered sugar with orange juice and drizzle over cake if desired.

Pro Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture.
For a richer taste, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter.
Check your cake at the 35-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

Best Ways to Serve Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

This delightful cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for a cozy breakfast. You can also serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert experience. For those looking for orange flavored breakfast cake, try pairing it with a fresh fruit salad to enhance the citrusy notes.

How to Store and Reheat Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

To keep your Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate it for a longer shelf life. To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat. This cake is ideal for meal prep, as it stays moist even after a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake

What’s the secret to perfect Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake?

The secret to a perfect Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake is in the balance of flavors. Using fresh ingredients like cranberries and zesty orange juice ensures a bright, flavorful cake. Also, don’t overmix the batter; this keeps the cake light and fluffy.

Can I make Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this cake a day in advance. Just allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will taste just as delicious the next day!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature, especially the butter and eggs. Also, measure your flour correctly to prevent your cake from becoming dense. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time to avoid overbaking.

Variations of Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake You Can Try

If you want to try something different, consider making a Cranberry orange loaf cake recipe instead of a square cake. You can also add nuts like walnuts or pecans for some crunch. Another delicious option is to create orange cranberry muffins for a portable breakfast treat. Lastly, top your cake with a homemade cranberry orange cake with glaze for a festive touch!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Cranberry Orange Pancakes or explore Cranberry Butter for a delightful spread. If you’re interested in healthy options, consider our healthy cranberry orange breakfast ideas.

For additional information on the health benefits of cranberries, you can visit Healthline.

Delicious Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe

Author: basmer
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Serves 9
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake is moist, fluffy, and bursting with fresh cranberries and vibrant orange zest. This bright, citrusy morning cake strikes the perfect balance of sweet and tart.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time. Stir in sour cream, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold into wet mixture until just combined.
Gently fold in cranberries. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
Bake 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool completely. Mix powdered sugar with orange juice and drizzle over cake if desired.