Irresistible Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake: A Burst of Citrus Goodness

Introduction

Hey there! I’m Jenny, the voice behind Recipes Cookery. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for an irresistible cranberry orange breakfast cake. This delightful cake combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty flavor of oranges, creating a breakfast treat that’s as perfect for special occasions as it is for an everyday morning. As a wife and mom, I love making memories in the kitchen, especially with my little sous chef by my side.

Living in New Jersey, I draw inspiration from the seasons, and nothing says winter like the bright flavors of cranberries and oranges. This cake is not just delicious; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your breakfast table. Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe that I know your family will adore!

Ingredients

To whip up this cranberry orange breakfast cake, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen, if unavailable)
• 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is best)
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

These ingredients are typically easy to find in your local grocery store. I often keep cranberries and oranges on hand, especially during the winter months, to make this cake whenever the craving strikes!

Timing

Preparing this cranberry orange breakfast cake is a breeze! Here’s a quick breakdown of the timing:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Baking time: 45-50 minutes
• Total time: About 1 hour

With just an hour, you can have a delightful cake that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. It’s an ideal choice when you have guests over or simply want to treat your family to something special!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to create your cranberry orange breakfast cake:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to ensure your cake comes out perfectly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial for ensuring your cake rises beautifully!

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, cream the softened butter until light and fluffy. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the orange juice, zest, and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—it’s okay if there are a few lumps!

Step 5: Fold in Cranberries

Gently fold in the cranberries, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. This will ensure each slice is bursting with flavor!

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve, perhaps with a dusting of powdered sugar on top!

Nutritional Information

For those who are calorie-conscious, here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per slice (assuming 12 slices):

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 8g
• Sugar: 10g

This cake is a delightful treat, but moderation is key! Enjoy it as part of a balanced breakfast.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, here are some healthier alternatives:

• Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Use coconut oil or applesauce in place of butter for a healthier fat option.
• Swap granulated sugar for honey or maple syrup to reduce refined sugars.

These substitutions can help make your cranberry orange breakfast cake a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor!

Serving Suggestions

This cake is perfect on its own, but here are a few fun serving suggestions:

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a touch of indulgence.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast experience.
• Top with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a drizzle of orange glaze for extra flair.

These ideas will elevate your breakfast and impress your family and friends!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best bakers make mistakes! Here are a few common pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Overmixing the batter—this can lead to a dense cake.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately, which can affect the texture and taste.
• Baking at the wrong temperature; always double-check your oven settings!

By avoiding these missteps, you’ll be on your way to baking success!

Storage Tips

Wondering how to store your leftover cranberry orange breakfast cake? Here’s how:

• Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw frozen cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

This way, you can enjoy this delightful cake even after the initial bake!

Conclusion

In conclusion, this cranberry orange breakfast cake is a wonderful way to start your day. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply enjoying a cozy morning at home, this cake will surely be a hit!

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?

Absolutely! Just make sure not to thaw them before adding them to the batter. They will bake perfectly in the cake.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake it a day in advance. Just keep it covered at room temperature until you’re ready to serve.

What can I substitute for orange juice?

If you don’t have orange juice, you can use apple juice or a mix of water and lemon juice for a different flavor.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me today as we explored this irresistible cranberry orange breakfast cake. I hope it becomes a cherished recipe in your home, just like it has in mine. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process and making memories, so don’t hesitate to involve your family in the kitchen. Happy baking!

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