The aroma wafting from my oven as I bake is simply enchanting. There’s something magical about the combination of zesty citrus and sweet cranberries—one bite of this Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe, and you’ll be hooked! This delightful cake is an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing treat that brightens any morning or brunch gathering. With its vibrant flavors and moist texture, it transforms your breakfast into a little celebration. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, keeping well for days, so you can savor its goodness throughout the week. Are you ready to elevate your mornings with this delicious cake? Let’s get baking!
Why is this cake a morning favorite?
Bright, Zesty Flavor: The combination of fresh oranges and tart cranberries creates a refreshing, uplifting taste that awakens your senses.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned chefs looking for a quick treat.
Versatile Enjoyment: Whether for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this cake fits seamlessly into any occasion. Serve it warm with a drizzle of glaze or plain for a delightful experience.
Meal Prep Friendly: It stays moist and flavorful for days, making it an excellent choice for busy mornings or planned brunches.
Crowd-Pleaser: The vibrant flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds—great for sharing at gatherings or family breakfasts. If you’re captivated by fruity bakes, don’t forget to check out my Lemon Ricotta Pancakes for another delicious morning option!
Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe Ingredients
• Get ready to bake a delightful cake!
For the Cake
- All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cake’s structure, ensuring a fluffy texture.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake perfectly; can substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
- Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise, ensuring it’s light and airy; no good substitute here.
- Salt – Enhances sweetness; a pinch is all you need!
- Unsweetened Applesauce – Keeps the cake moist and can replace eggs for a vegan option.
- Fresh Orange Juice – Adds a bright flavor; use bottled juice, but fresh is always best!
- Orange Zest – Intensifies the citrus aroma; zest before juicing for convenience.
- Cranberries – The star of the show; fresh or frozen both work beautifully, giving a tart contrast to the sweetness.
For the Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and smooth texture to your glaze; can substitute with a sugar alternative.
- Fresh Orange Juice – Adds acidity and brightness to the glaze; don’t skip this for the best flavor!
This Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe is sure to brighten your morning and impress your family and friends!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully. While the oven warms up, prepare your baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well-mixed. This step is crucial for distributing the leavening agent and ensuring your cake has a lovely, airy texture. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, fresh orange juice, and orange zest. Whisk these together until you have a smooth and homogenous mixture. The applesauce not only moistens the cake but also replaces the need for eggs, making this cake vegan-friendly while enhancing the fruity flavor profile.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients, gently folding them together with a spatula. Mix until just combined; it’s okay if a few lumps remain. Overmixing can make the cake dense, so aim for a moist batter with visible flecks of dry ingredients still evident.
Step 5: Fold in Cranberries
Once the batter is ready, gently fold in the fresh or frozen cranberries until evenly distributed. This adds a lovely burst of tartness to your Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake. Be cautious not to crush the cranberries to ensure they remain whole and juicy throughout the bake.
Step 6: Pour Batter into Pan
Carefully pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Check that the cranberries are well-distributed on the surface. The batter should fill the pan about halfway to allow for rising as it bakes.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Place the baking pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. This ensures your Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake is perfectly baked and ready to enjoy.
Step 8: Cool Before Glazing
Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This helps set the structure, making it easier to glaze and slice without falling apart.
Step 9: Prepare the Glaze
While the cake cools, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh orange juice in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more juice or sugar as needed to create a pourable glaze. This bright addition enhances your Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake, adding a delightful sheen and extra sweetness.
Step 10: Drizzle and Serve
Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Slice your Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake into squares or wedges and serve. This vibrant treat pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making every bite a joyful experience.
What to Serve with Easy Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies
Baking these chewy delights is just the beginning of your dessert journey; let’s explore irresistible pairings that elevate your experience!
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing crunch that complements the rich chocolate flavors beautifully.
- Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola made with nuts and oats gives a satisfying texture contrast—perfect for balancing the softness of the cookies.
- Dairy-Free Milkshake: Blend banana and almond milk for a smooth milkshake that harmonizes with chocolate and creates a luxurious treat.
- Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee or espresso enhance the chocolate notes while providing a warm, comforting companion to your cookies.
- Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla or chocolate ice cream offers a creamy delight that can turn your cookies into an indulgent sundae.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this creamy topping amplifies the cookies’ richness and adds a hint of tropical flavor. Enjoy it drizzled on top!
- Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai provide a lovely contrast to the sweet cookies, making for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted vegan chocolate over the cookies adds an extra layer of decadence—because who can resist more chocolate?
- Berries: Fresh strawberries or raspberries add tartness and color, making your dessert plate as gorgeous as it is delicious.
These suggestions invite you to create not just a snack but a delightful moment to savor!
Variations & Substitutions for Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe
Feel free to make this delightful cake your own with these exciting twists and substitutions!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make this cake suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
- Oil-Free: Swap out the applesauce for mashed bananas to keep the cake moist while reducing oil content for a healthier version.
- Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and rich flavor that complements the tart cranberries.
- Citrus Burst: Incorporate the zest of a lemon alongside the orange zest for an extra layer of zesty goodness that enhances your cake’s bright flavor.
- Dried Cranberries: If fresh cranberries aren’t available, consider using dried cranberries. They infuse a sweeter touch, making each bite beautifully chewy and delicious.
- Coconut Twist: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flair that pairs wonderfully with the citrus notes and adds a lovely texture.
- Vegan Glaze: For a dairy-free version of the glaze, use almond milk instead of orange juice to thin the powdered sugar, creating a smooth and creamy finish.
- Berry Blend: Replace cranberries with blueberries or raspberries for a fruity surprise that adds a splash of color and flavor to your morning treat.
All of these substitutions and variations are perfect for adapting your cake to fit your family’s taste preferences. If you’re looking for more mouthwatering breakfast ideas, don’t miss out on my delicious Lemon Ricotta Pancakes or try a twist with some Egg Avocado Breakfast Quesadilla. Happy baking!
Make Ahead Options
These Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe components are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy mornings! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt) up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness. Additionally, you can mix the wet ingredients (applesauce, fresh orange juice, and zest) the night before and refrigerate them overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the dry and wet mixtures, fold in the cranberries, and bake as instructed. This way, you can enjoy a delicious homemade cake with minimal effort and just as delightful flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake
Airtight Container: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps preserve its moist texture and vibrant flavors.
Refrigeration: For extended freshness, keep the cake in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure it’s well-covered to avoid absorbing other odors.
Freezing: Freeze the cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: If desired, gently warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy the cake’s delightful flavors fresh as if it was just baked.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh orange juice and zest are key to achieving a vibrant flavor. If using frozen cranberries, don’t thaw them to keep the cake moist.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, while a delicate fold produces a light, airy texture.
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Proper Measurement: Be precise with your measuring cups, especially for flour. Too much flour can make the cake dry; consider spooning flour into the cup and leveling it off.
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Cool Before Glazing: Let the cake cool completely before adding the glaze. This prevents it from melting into the cake and ensures a beautiful presentation.
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Adjust Sweetness: The glaze can be easily modified for personal preference. Add more orange juice or adjust the powdered sugar for desired sweetness.
This Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe is a delightful way to brighten your mornings and impress your family!
Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of cranberries should I use?
You can use either fresh or frozen cranberries for this recipe. If you’re using frozen cranberries, it’s best not to thaw them before adding them to the batter, as this helps maintain the cake’s moisture and prevents it from becoming too wet. Fresh cranberries will give a delightful tartness that complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully!
How do I store the Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake?
To store your cake, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its delightful moisture. For longer storage, transfer it to the refrigerator, where it can last for up to a week. Just ensure it’s well-covered to prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge.
Can I freeze the Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This combination protects it from freezer burn and helps preserve its freshness. The cake can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and you can even warm up slices in the microwave for a delightful, freshly baked taste!
How can I adjust the sweetness of the glaze?
If you’d like to modify the sweetness of the glaze, you can easily adjust the amount of powdered sugar or orange juice you use. For a less sweet glaze, simply add more orange juice until it reaches your desired flavor. Conversely, if you prefer a sweeter glaze, add more powdered sugar until it gets to your taste. It’s all about what makes you happy!
Cranberry Orange Breakfast Cake Recipe for a Bright Morning Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, fresh orange juice, and orange zest then whisk until smooth.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and fold together gently.
- Fold in the cranberries gently until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool the cake in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh orange juice until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake and serve.