Name: Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 115 min
Ingredients: 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (fresh); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (fresh); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (optional for low-sodium version); 1.75 cups Granulated Sugar (or coconut sugar); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 4 large Eggs (or flax eggs); 1 cup Buttermilk (or homemade buttermilk); 1 cup Orange Juice (fresh or bottled); 1 tablespoon Orange Zest; 4 cups Powdered Sugar (or sugar alternative); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 2-4 tablespoons Orange Juice (to taste); 2 tablespoons Orange Zest (for flavor); 2 cups Fresh Cranberries (or blueberries); 0.75 cups Sugar (adjust to taste); 0.5 cup Orange Juice; 1 tablespoon Orange Zest

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While flipping through a cherished old cookbook, I stumbled upon a page stained with the joy of past gatherings. It was a recipe for a Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream, the very essence of celebration captured in vibrant layers of flavor! This delightful cake not only dazzles the eyes but also brings a refreshing twist to any festive occasion. With its zesty orange notes balanced by tart cranberries, it’s as rewarding to make as it is to share—perfect for those seeking to elevate their homemade treats without endless hours in the kitchen. Best of all, the fluffy Citrus Buttercream frosting ties it all together—making this recipe a crowd-pleaser every single time. Are you ready to create a dessert that will leave everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into this delightful baking adventure!

Why is this cake a must-try?

Deliciously Unique: This Cranberry Orange Layer Cake combines refreshing citrus flavors with the tartness of cranberries for a genuinely unforgettable treat.

Effortless Elegance: With a straightforward recipe, you can create a stunning dessert that’ll impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen.

Crowd Favorite: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any festive gathering, this cake is sure to please both the taste buds and the eyes.

Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with flavors—swap cranberries for blueberries or add a hint of lemon zest. The possibilities are endless!

Perfectly Textured: The airy, moist layers and rich Citrus Buttercream create a delightful contrast that’s simply irresistible. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for the perfect afternoon treat!

Cranberry Orange Layer Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Essential for the cake’s body; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Leavening agents that ensure the cake rises properly; always check they are fresh for the best results.
Salt – Balances sweetness; can be omitted if making a low-sodium version.
Granulated Sugar – Key for flavor and moisture, giving sweetness; consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute if preferred.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy blending or use margarine or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Eggs – Provide structure and richness to bind ingredients; can substitute with flax eggs for a vegan alternative (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water = 1 egg).
Buttermilk – Introduces moisture and tenderness; you can make homemade buttermilk by mixing milk with lemon juice or vinegar.
Orange Juice and Zest – Infuses delightful citrus flavor into the cake and buttercream; in a hurry? Bottled juice works well too.

For the Citrus Buttercream

Powdered Sugar – Essential for sweetness and structure, ensuring a creamy consistency; can be replaced with a finely blended sugar alternative.
Unsalted Butter – Creates a rich, creamy texture; softened for easy mixing.
Orange Juice and Zest – Brightens the buttercream with vivid citrus notes; choose fresh for the best flavor.

For the Cranberry Filling

Fresh Cranberries – The star ingredient for a tart and sweet filling, bursting with flavor; can be swapped with blueberries for different berry delight.
Sugar – Sweetens the tart cranberries; adjust to taste based on your preference.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray. For added assurance, line the bottoms with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Set these pans aside while you gather and measure your ingredients for the Cranberry Orange Layer Cake, ensuring everything is at room temperature for optimal mixing.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined. This step is crucial for the cake’s structure, as it ensures even distribution of the leavening agents. Set this dry mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 ¾ cups of granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed for 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is an essential step to incorporate air into the batter, creating a beautifully tender texture in your Cranberry Orange Layer Cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Add 4 large eggs to the creamed butter and sugar one at a time, mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate them. Next, stir in 1 cup of fresh orange juice, 1 tablespoon of orange zest, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The citrus will brighten the batter, enhancing the overall flavor of the cake.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with 1 cup of buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake. You want a smooth batter with a few small lumps, which indicates that your Cranberry Orange Layer Cake will be light and airy.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking, as the cakes should spring back lightly when touched.

Step 7: Prepare the Cranberry Filling
While the cakes cool, prepare the cranberry filling by simmering 2 cups of fresh cranberries, ¾ cup of sugar, ½ cup of orange juice, and 1 tablespoon of orange zest in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook for about 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before assembling the cake.

Step 8: Make the Citrus Buttercream
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until smooth. Stir in 2-4 tablespoons of orange juice and 2 tablespoons of orange zest, beating until the buttercream is fluffy and creamy, capturing the essence of citrus for your cake’s frosting.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of Citrus Buttercream followed by a generous layer of the cranberry filling. Repeat with the second layer, and top with the third. Finally, frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining Buttercream. Feel free to garnish with extra cranberries or orange zest for a festive touch.

Cranberry Orange Layer Cake Variations

Feel free to add your personal touch to this delightful cake; your kitchen creations are waiting to be explored!

Berry Twist: Substitute cranberries with blueberries for a sweeter, more mellow cake flavor that’s equally enchanting.
Lemon Zest Boost: Incorporate lemon zest into the buttercream for an extra tang that beautifully complements the citrus notes in the cake.
Gluten-Free Delight: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make this cake suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap unsalted butter for vegan butter and replace buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar for a creamy, dairy-free delight.
Nutty Addition: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a lovely crunch and unexpected texture contrast within the soft cake layers.
Spiced Variation: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or ginger to the cake batter for a warm, spiced flavor twist, perfect for cozy gatherings.
Decadent Chocolate: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the frosted layers for a chocolatey treat that beautifully pairs with the fruity filling.
Heat It Up: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cranberry filling for a surprising kick that plays wonderfully against the sweet flavor.

These delicious variations can transform your cake while staying true to its berry-kissed roots! For a modern touch, why not whip up some delightful Coconut Cream Pie for a dessert duo that’s sure to impress? Your guests will love the creativity!

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Orange Layer Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks aiming to save time while creating a delectable dessert! You can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply allow them to cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate to maintain moisture. The cranberry filling can be prepared up to 3 days ahead—store it in the fridge in an airtight container to keep it fresh. On the day of serving, whip up the Citrus Buttercream (which takes just minutes) and assemble the cake for a stunning presentation that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh that day! This approach enables you to enjoy the celebration without the last-minute rush.

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Layer Cake

Fridge: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to keep it fresh and moist. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezer: Wrap individual slices or the whole cake in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying again.

Reheating: If you like your cake warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Cranberry Orange Layer Cake even after storing!

Serving Tip: Frosting may become slightly soft after freezing; give it a quick touch-up with fresh Citrus Buttercream if desired before serving.

Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Layer Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature. This helps create a beautifully fluffy Cranberry Orange Layer Cake.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, which we absolutely want to avoid!
Fresh Leavening Agents: Always use fresh baking powder and baking soda for the best rise. Stale agents can ruin the fluffiness that makes your cake so delightful.
Cool Completely: Let the cake layers cool completely before frosting to prevent the buttercream from melting. This step ensures a beautifully layered finish!
Taste as You Go: Adjust the sugar in your cranberry filling according to your taste preference; every batch of cranberries can vary in tartness.

What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream

This dazzling cake is sure to be the star of any gathering, so let’s explore delightful pairings that will complement its vibrant flavors.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cake, enhancing your dessert spread.
Serving it chilled will add a cool, revitalizing touch to your meal.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream balances the tartness of the cake, providing a comforting texture that melts in your mouth.
The combination of warm cake and cold ice cream is simply divine!
Sparkling Citrus Punch: This zesty drink brings effervescence to the table, pairing beautifully with the cake’s citrus notes for a festive touch.
It’s refreshing and adds a celebratory vibe to your dessert experience.
Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of citrus-infused tea or a rich coffee creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for savoring every bite of the cake.
The flavors of both beverages mingle delightfully with the sweetness of the dessert.
Cheese Plate: A selection of creamy cheeses like goat cheese or brie offers a contrasting savory note that enhances the cake’s sweet and tart profile.
Add some nuts and honey for an elegant touch!
Lemon Sorbet: This light and palate-cleansing option pairs wonderfully with the cake, providing a refreshing finish that isn’t overly heavy.
It’s a perfect prelude to dessert or a delightful follow-up to a rich meal.
Chocolate Ganache: Rich chocolate ganache drizzled over the cake serves as a decadent addition, enhancing its festive appearance and indulgent flavor profile.
The richness of chocolate will elevate every slice into a luxurious treat!
Shortbread Cookies: Light and buttery, these cookies offer a crunchy texture and simple sweetness to balance the moist layers of the cake.
They make for a charming accompaniment on any dessert platter.

Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream Recipe FAQs

What type of cranberries should I use for the filling?
Fresh cranberries are ideal for this recipe as they provide the perfect balance of tartness and flavor. If fresh cranberries aren’t available, you can also use frozen cranberries; just make sure to thaw them first and drain off any excess moisture.

How should I store leftover Cranberry Orange Layer Cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s properly covered to maintain its moisture and flavor. I always let it come to room temperature before serving again—it truly enhances the taste!

Can I freeze this cake, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze the cake, wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This method protects it from freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

What if my cake turns out too dense?
If your Cranberry Orange Layer Cake ends up dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter. When you’re combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined for a light texture. Also, make sure your leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) are fresh—they’re essential for a successful rise!

Is this cake suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes! You can easily make this cake suitable for various dietary preferences. To make it gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use non-dairy butter and buttermilk alternatives.

Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Definitely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. Frosting the cake the day you’re serving it will help maintain the best textural quality of the Citrus Buttercream. Make it easy on yourself and divide the prep time!