Orange Cranberry Cake That Tastes Like the Holidays

There’s something about the combination of bright citrus and tart cranberries that feels instantly festive. This Orange Cranberry Cake is the kind of dessert that looks impressive on the table but is surprisingly simple to make. The fresh orange flavor runs through every bite, while juicy cranberries add little bursts of tangy sweetness that keep the cake from feeling too rich.

I especially love this recipe during the cooler months when everyone seems to be craving cozy, comforting bakes. It’s elegant enough for a holiday gathering, brunch, or special occasion, but easy enough to enjoy with an afternoon coffee on a quiet weekend. If you’re looking for a cake that feels both fresh and indulgent, this orange cranberry combination is one you’ll find yourself making again and again.

This post may contain affiliate links which helps me keep this blog alive, questions? View the privacy policy.

Why You’ll Love This Orange Cranberry Cake

• Perfect balance of sweet and tart – Fresh cranberries add a bright, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet citrus notes of orange.
• Beautiful for holiday gatherings – The vibrant cranberries and golden cake make this dessert look festive and bakery-worthy with minimal effort.
• Packed with fresh orange flavor – Orange zest and juice bring a refreshing brightness that makes every bite feel light and flavorful.
• Soft, moist crumb – This cake stays tender and delicious thanks to its rich, buttery texture and fruit-filled batter.
• Easy to make ahead – The flavors develop even more as the cake rests, making it a great option for entertaining or holiday meal planning.
• Versatile for any occasion – Serve it for brunch, dessert, afternoon coffee, or even as part of a special holiday breakfast spread.

Orange Cranberry Cake

A soft, buttery orange cake packed with tart cranberries and bright citrus flavor. Perfect for holiday gatherings, brunches, or anytime you want a dessert that feels both cozy and refreshing.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• For the Cake
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons orange zest
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• For the Orange Glaze
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 –3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• 1 teaspoon orange zest

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the orange zest and orange juice.
5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the batter, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined.
6. Gently fold the cranberries into the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
8. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. If using the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest. Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.

Notes

Toss the cranberries with 1 tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter to help prevent sinking.
Frozen cranberries can be used directly from the freezer without thawing.
For extra orange flavor, add an additional teaspoon of orange zest to the glaze.
Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
This cake freezes well for up to 2 months when tightly wrapped.

How to Make Orange Cranberry Cake

Prepare the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper. This helps the cake release cleanly after baking.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step creates a tender, moist cake texture.

Add the Eggs and Orange Flavor

Mix in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the orange zest and fresh orange juice until fully incorporated.

Combine the Batter

Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix the batter.

Fold in the Cranberries

Gently fold the cranberries into the batter, distributing them evenly throughout without crushing them.

Transfer to the Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake Until Golden

Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cake

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Finish and Serve

Drizzle with orange glaze or dust with powdered sugar if desired. Garnish with fresh cranberries and extra orange zest before slicing and serving.

Bottom Line

Looking for more festive treats to fill your holiday dessert table? These Mini Cranberry Swirl Cheesecakes are a perfect companion to this orange cranberry cake, bringing even more tart cranberry flavor to the season. If you’re putting together edible gifts, you’ll also love these crunchy Caramel Chocolate Pretzel Rods, which are always a crowd favorite. For an easy no-bake holiday classic, try this irresistible Peppermint Bark, packed with festive peppermint flavor and chocolate layers. And if you’re planning a movie night or holiday gathering, don’t miss this sweet and crunchy Homemade Caramel Corn that’s guaranteed to disappear fast. Mix and match a few of these recipes for a holiday dessert spread everyone will remember!