Go Back
Cranberry Orange Drip Cake decorated with orange zest and cranberries
Print Recipe

Cranberry Orange Drip Cake

A delightful cake combining the zesty flavors of orange and the tartness of cranberries, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time30 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time1 hour
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Baking, Cranberry, Cranberry Orange Cake, Drip Cake, holiday dessert
Servings: 12 pieces
Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Provides a tender, fluffy foundation.
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder Leavening agent for rise.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances flavors.
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened) Adds moisture and depth.
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar Sweetener for the cake.
  • 4 large eggs Binds ingredients together.
  • 1 cup whole milk Adds creaminess.
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest Infuses cake with citrus notes.
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice Enhances flavor and moistness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Complementary flavor.
  • 1 cup dried cranberries Provides bursts of tartness.

Glaze Ingredients

  • 1 cup powdered sugar Key ingredient for glaze.
  • 2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice (for glaze) Adds sweetness to glaze.
  • Orange zest (for garnish) Extra pop of color and flavor.

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, then set aside.

Baking

  • In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  • Mix in the orange zest, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with dry ingredients.
  • Fold in the dried cranberries gently.
  • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Glazing and Serving

  • Whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh orange juice until smooth for the glaze.
  • Place one cake layer on a serving plate, drizzle with glaze, then top with the second layer and more glaze.
  • Garnish with orange zest and slice to serve.

Notes

For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature and avoid overmixing the batter. Use fresh cranberries for enhanced flavor.