The smell of oranges and cranberries has a magical way of transforming any space into a cozy holiday haven. That’s exactly what happens when you whip up this delightful Cranberry Christmas Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Icing. It’s not just a cake; it’s a festive centerpiece that brings warmth and cheer to your gatherings. This easy recipe combines a fluffy sponge peppered with tart cranberries and is finished off with a light, creamy frosting bursting with zesty orange flavor. Plus, it’s the kind of dessert that’s sure to impress both family and friends while not keeping you in the kitchen for hours. What could be more satisfying than a holiday treat that looks stunning and tastes even better? Ready to get baking and fill your home with irresistible festive aromas? Let’s dive into this delicious journey!
Why is this cake a holiday must?
Festive Flair: This stunning cake is a vibrant centerpiece that adds instant holiday cheer to any table.
Tantalizing Flavors: The delightful combo of tart cranberries and zesty orange makes each bite feel like a celebration.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you won’t spend hours in the kitchen, leaving more time to enjoy with loved ones.
Versatile Variations: Swap in dried cranberries or play with citrus flavors for personalized twists! Try pairing with a warm drink like mulled wine, and don’t forget about serving it alongside Cottage Cheese Egg for an extra festive spread.
Crowd-Pleaser: This cake promises to impress, making it the perfect way to wow your guests at holiday gatherings!
Cranberry Christmas Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• Butter – 250g / 1 cup; use unsalted for better control of salt levels.
• Caster Sugar – 250g / 1⅓ cups; sweetens and contributes to a fine crumb, can substitute with superfine sugar if necessary.
• Eggs – 4 large; bring to room temperature for optimal mixing and binding.
• Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp; adds a lovely depth of flavor.
• Clementine Zest – for a fresh citrus aroma; mandarin or orange zest works well too.
• All-Purpose Flour – 250g / 1¾ cups; ensures structural integrity, sift before measuring to avoid lumps.
• Baking Powder – 2½ tsp; make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• Bicarbonate of Soda – ½ tsp; provides extra leavening.
• Salt – ½ tsp; don’t skip this, it enhances all flavors.
• Fresh Cranberries – 100g / 1 cup (plus extra for decoration); adds tartness and freshness to the cake—can substitute with ¾ cup dried cranberries.
For the Orange Cream Cheese Frosting
• Cream Cheese – 400g / 2 cups, full fat; forms the creamy base—full-fat gives the best texture.
• Double Cream – 300 ml / 1¼ cups; contributes richness to the frosting, can swap with heavy whipping cream if desired.
• Icing Sugar – 65g / ½ cup; sift to avoid clumps and sweeten the frosting.
• Fresh Orange Juice – 1 tbsp; brightens and enhances the orange flavor.
• Orange Liqueur – 1 tbsp (like Cointreau); adds complexity—use orange extract for a non-alcoholic version.
This Cranberry Christmas Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Icing is not just a treat; it’s a joyful addition to your festive table! Happy baking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Christmas Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Icing
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Generously grease two 8-inch round baking pans with butter and lightly dust them with flour. This ensures your Cranberry Christmas Cake will release easily once baked. Alternatively, you can line the pans with parchment paper for added ease.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream 250g of softened unsalted butter and 250g of caster sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 4-5 minutes. You’re looking for a pale, airy texture that will create a lovely crumb in the cake.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Incorporate the 4 large eggs into the creamed mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are fully integrated. Next, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the zest of a clementine, stirring until just combined. The batter should be smooth and fragrant as the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 250g of all-purpose flour, 2½ teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients, stirring gently to combine. A well-mixed batter should have no dry flour visible, ensuring an even texture throughout the Cranberry Christmas Cake.
Step 5: Fold in Cranberries
Once the batter is just mixed, gently fold in 100g of fresh cranberries using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain the fluffy texture of the cake while evenly distributing the cranberries throughout. This will create delightful bursts of tartness in every bite.
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Place them in the preheated oven, baking for approximately 30-35 minutes. The cakes are done when they turn golden brown and a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pans for 20 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
While the cakes cool, prepare the orange cream cheese icing. In a bowl, beat together 400g of full-fat cream cheese, 300ml of double cream, 65g of sifted icing sugar, 1 tablespoon of fresh orange juice, and 1 tablespoon of orange liqueur. Whip the mixture until stiff peaks form, resulting in a smooth, creamy frosting ready to elevate your Cranberry Christmas Cake.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
To assemble, place one cooled cake layer onto a serving stand or plate. Spread a quarter of the orange cream cheese frosting on top. Carefully place the second cake layer on top and cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting, ensuring smooth, even coverage on the top and sides for a festive finish.
Step 9: Decorate
For a cheerful presentation, decorate the top of your Cranberry Christmas Cake with extra fresh cranberries and optional festive sprinkles if desired. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the holiday spirit of your dessert, making it look as delightful as it tastes.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Christmas Cake
Fridge: Store any leftover Cranberry Christmas Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and moist.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze un-frosted sponge layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Once ready to serve, defrost in the refrigerator overnight before frosting.
Reheating: If you prefer your cake warmed, gently heat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This enhances the flavors and gives a delightful experience.
Frosting Storage: If you have leftover frosting, store it in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Rewhip before using to regain its fluffy texture.
What to Serve with Cranberry Christmas Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting
The perfect meal is all about balance, and this festive cake can shine with the right companions to elevate your holiday gathering.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast to the fluffy cake, adding a rich and soothing element.
- Mulled Wine: Warm, spiced wine enhances the seasonal flavors and complements the tart cranberries beautifully, making for a cozy drink to sip on.
- Spiced Apple Cider: This sweet and spiced beverage pairs perfectly, its warmth harmonizing with the festive citrus notes in your cake.
- Gingerbread Cookies: A classic holiday treat that adds a lovely spiced crunch, balancing the cake’s softness and tangy frosting.
- Chocolate Fondue: For an indulgent twist, serve alongside fresh fruits and marshmallows for dipping, creating a fun, interactive dessert experience.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a pillow-like texture that enhances each slice’s creaminess while keeping it festive.
- Roasted Nuts: A bowl of spiced or candied nuts brings a delightful crunch and complements the softness of the cake with their rich flavors.
- Festive Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits can refresh the palate, visually enhance your dessert table, and provide a light option alongside the cake.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: A holiday favorite, this cozy drink brings warm spices that blend seamlessly with the cake’s flavor profile.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle a bit of warm caramel over cake slices for an extra layer of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the tart cranberries.
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Christmas Cakes with Orange Cream Cheese Icing are perfect for meal prep, making your holiday gatherings a breeze! You can prepare the cake layers up to 3 days in advance. Simply bake and let the layers cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. For the frosting, whip it up up to 24 hours before serving and store it in the fridge; just give it a quick whip to restore its fluffiness. When you’re ready to serve, layer the cakes with the frosting and decorate them with cranberries for that stunning festive look. Your dessert will remain just as delicious and fresh, saving you precious time on busy holiday nights!
Variations & Substitutions for Cranberry Christmas Cake
Feel free to adapt this delightful recipe to suit your taste preferences—your holiday cheer will shine even brighter!
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Dried Cranberries: Substitute fresh cranberries with ¾ cup of dried cranberries for a sweeter twist. This gives a beautifully chewy texture in each bite.
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Spiced Delight: Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, festive flavor. These warming spices create an aromatic experience that will fill your kitchen with holiday spirit!
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Citrus Swap: Replace the clementine zest with lemon or lime zest for a zesty variation. This will give your cake a bright, refreshing twist that balances the sweetness of the frosting beautifully.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the cake batter for added texture and an earthy flavor. The nuts will add delightful crunchiness to your festive treat.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make a gluten-free version. It can provide the same delicious taste while accommodating gluten-sensitive guests.
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Less Sweet: Reduce the icing sugar to 40g (1/3 cup) for a lighter frosting. This way, the tang of cream cheese can really shine through without being overly sweet.
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Flavor Boost: Drizzle the cake with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and orange juice before frosting. This adds extra moisture and a beautiful shine to your dessert!
Don’t forget to explore delicious pairings like Simple Cottage Cheese Egg Salad or a warm cup of mulled wine alongside your gorgeous cake. Get creative and enjoy the holiday baking adventure!
Expert Tips for Cranberry Christmas Cake
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and butter, are at room temperature for better mixing and a uniform cake texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in the cranberries after combining wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake instead of the airy Cranberry Christmas Cake you desire.
- Check for Freshness: Use fresh ingredients, especially baking powder and bicarbonate of soda, to ensure your cake rises beautifully. Stale leavening agents can lead to a dense texture.
- Cool Properly: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 20 minutes before transferring to a rack. This prevents them from breaking apart and helps maintain a moist cake.
- Frosting Tip: For a lighter, fluffier frosting, whip the double cream separately, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture carefully to maintain airiness.
- Customize Flavor: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a cozy holiday flair, enhancing your Cranberry Christmas Cake with extra warmth and fragrance.
Cranberry Christmas Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe cranberries?
When selecting fresh cranberries, pick berries that are bright in color and firm to the touch. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as these may indicate overripeness. If you can’t find fresh cranberries, opt for high-quality dried cranberries, though they will change the texture and sweetness of your cake.
How should I store leftover Cranberry Christmas Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its moisture and flavor. If you plan on enjoying the cake later, consider wrapping individual slices with plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container.
Can I freeze the Cranberry Christmas Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze the cake, wrap the un-frosted sponge layers tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your cake, simply defrost the layers in the refrigerator overnight before frosting. If you freeze a frosted cake, be cautious, as the frosting may not thaw well, potentially affecting its texture.
What if my cake doesn’t rise properly?
If your Cranberry Christmas Cake doesn’t rise as expected, there could be a few reasons. First, check the dates on your baking powder and bicarbonate of soda to ensure they are fresh and effective. Overmixing the batter after incorporating the dry ingredients can also lead to a dense cake. It’s crucial to fold gently, especially when adding in the cranberries, to keep the cake light and airy.
Are there any dietary considerations for this cake?
Yes! If you’re making this cake for someone with dietary restrictions, be mindful of potential allergens. The cake contains gluten (from the all-purpose flour), dairy (butter, cream cheese, double cream), and eggs. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. For a dairy-free option, consider using plant-based butter and cream cheese alternatives. Always inform your guests of any major allergens included.
Can I substitute ingredients?
Of course! If you’re looking to mix things up, feel free to use dried cranberries instead of fresh; just reduce the amount to ¾ cup. You could also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for additional warmth. If you prefer a different orange flavor, you could substitute the clementine zest for lemon or lime zest. Customize this Cranberry Christmas Cake to create your personal holiday delight!
Cranberry Christmas Cake with Orange Cream Cheese Icing Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare two 8-inch round baking pans.
- Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, mixing well after each addition, then add vanilla and clementine zest.
- Sift together the dry ingredients and gradually add to the wet mixture.
- Fold in the cranberries gently.
- Divide the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Prepare the frosting by beating the ingredients until stiff peaks form.
- Assemble the cake by layering with frosting and decorating as desired.
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