As I stood in my kitchen the other day, the sweet scent of oranges filled the air, mingling delightfully with the tartness of freshly cooked cranberries. It was the perfect moment to whip up a Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream, a showstopper that elevates any gathering with its vibrant layers and zesty flavor profile. This recipe is designed for those of us who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen, as it combines simplicity with stunning results. Imagine serving this beautiful cake, bursting with the kind of cheerful flavors that brighten any occasion! Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a cozy gathering, this cake is a sure crowd-pleaser. Ready to dive into a delicious baking adventure? Let’s get started! Why is this cake a must-try? Vibrant Flavors: The harmonious blend of tart cranberries and sweet oranges makes every bite a burst of sunshine. Simplicity: Easy to follow steps mean you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with friends. Impressive Appearance: Layered with zesty citrus buttercream, this cake is not just delicious but looks stunning on any dessert table. Versatile Option: Perfect for any occasion—be it a festive gathering or a cozy afternoon tea with Pink Lemonade Cake as a companion! Make-Ahead Friendly: You can easily bake the layers ahead and frost them when you’re ready, making entertaining seamless. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice baker, this Cranberry Orange Layer Cake will dazzle your taste buds and delight your guests! Cranberry Orange Layer Cake Ingredients For the Cake • All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; feel free to swap in cake flour for a lighter texture. • Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; coconut sugar makes a delightful alternative if you prefer less sweetness. • Baking Powder – Essential for leavening; ensure it’s fresh for a proper rise. • Baking Soda – Aids in browning; no substitutions needed here! • Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; kosher salt works great if you have it on hand. • Unsalted Butter – Brings moisture and richness; vegan butter is perfect for a dairy-free option. • Eggs – Acts as a binder for texture; replace with aquafaba for a vegan alternative. • Orange Juice – Infuses flavor; fresh juice is always best, but bottled is a quick fix if needed. • Orange Zest – Amplifies the orange flavor; a microplane zest tool makes this task a breeze. • Buttermilk – Ensures tenderness; mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice if you’re out. • Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – Adds a delightful tartness; remember to thaw frozen cranberries before use. For the Filling • Fresh Cranberries – Provides that signature tartness; don’t skip this for the filling! • Granulated Sugar – Balances the tartness of the cranberries; adjust to taste based on your preference. • Orange Juice – Brings a zesty punch to the filling; the freshness enhances the overall flavor. • Orange Zest – Deepens the citrus experience; don’t skimp on this ingredient! For the Citrus Buttercream • Unsalted Butter – Makes the buttercream creamy and rich; vegan butter can be used for a dairy-free treat. • Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; feel free to adjust to your liking for the perfect balance. • Orange Juice – Adds a refreshing citrus flavor; fresh juice yields the best results. • Orange Zest – Delivers that extra zing; a little zest makes the buttercream pop! Now that you have all your ingredients ready, you’re one step closer to creating this enchanting Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream! Let’s get baking! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take three 8-inch round cake pans and generously grease and flour them to prevent sticking. This will ensure your Cranberry Orange Layer Cake comes out beautifully once baked. Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well-combined. This step is essential for blending the dry ingredients evenly, ensuring your cake will rise properly. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients, allowing the leavening agents to activate. Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar In another bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat this mixture for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. Gradually add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then incorporate the fresh orange zest and juice along with vanilla extract for a delightful flavor boost. Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Now, alternately add the dry mix from step two and the buttermilk to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this could toughen your cake. The batter for your Cranberry Orange Layer Cake should be smooth yet slightly thick. Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cake layers to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. Step 6: Make the Cranberry Filling In a medium saucepan, combine your fresh or thawed cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, and zest. Cook this mixture over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently until the cranberries break down and the mixture thickens. Afterward, let the filling cool to room temperature. Step 7: Prepare Citrus Buttercream In a clean bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy using an electric mixer. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until incorporated. Then, add orange juice and zest to taste, beating until the buttercream is light, fluffy, and spreadable. This citrus buttercream will enchant the flavors of your Cranberry Orange Layer Cake. Step 8: Assemble the Cake Begin layering your cake by placing one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of citrus buttercream followed by a layer of the cranberry filling. Repeat this process with the second cake layer. Finally, place the third layer on top, completely frosting the cake with the remaining citrus buttercream. Garnish with fresh cranberries and extra zest for a beautiful finish. Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Layer Cake Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for a better emulsion, leading to a lighter texture in your cake. Mix with Care: Avoid overmixing the cake batter. Gentle folding keeps it fluffy, ensuring your Cranberry Orange Layer Cake is airy and light. Adjust Sweetness: Taste the buttercream before frosting. You can add more orange juice or zest to balance sweetness to your liking. Cool Layers Properly: Allow baked layers to cool completely before frosting. This prevents the buttercream from melting and sliding off your cake. Prep Ahead: If making in advance, wrap cooled cake layers tightly and refrigerate. Frost just before serving for the best flavor and texture. Make Ahead Options These Cranberry Orange Layer Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can bake the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap each cooled layer tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate them to maintain freshness. The cranberry filling can also be prepared up to 3 days ahead—store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it flavorful. When ready to serve, just whip up the citrus buttercream and assemble the cake, layering the buttercream and cranberry filling between the cake layers. This way, you’ll have a stunning, festive dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort, ensuring the cake tastes just as delightful as if made fresh! Cranberry Orange Layer Cake Variations Feel free to add your personal touch to this delightful cake with these fun and flavorful variations! Raspberry Twist: Substitute cranberries with fresh raspberries for a sweeter, berry-infused flavor. Lemon Layer Cake: Use lemon juice and zest instead of orange for a tart, refreshing alternative to the original. Ginger Spice: Incorporate ground ginger into the cake batter for a cozy, spiced version that adds warmth and depth. Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the cake batter to give it a delightful crunchy texture. Coconut Delight: Add shredded coconut to the buttercream for a tropical twist that beautifully complements the citrus flavors. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the frosted cake for a rich, decadent touch that elevates this dessert. Herb-Infused: Infuse the buttercream with fresh rosemary or thyme for an unexpected herbal note that pairs surprisingly well with citrus. More Fruit Fun: Top the cake with additional seasonal fruits, like slices of kiwi or strawberries, for an eye-catching garnish that enhances its charm. If you’re looking for more delightful ideas, consider pairing your cake with a slice of Strawberries Cream Cake or serving it alongside a refreshing glass of pink lemonade like in our Pink Lemonade Cake. These combinations will surely impress your guests! What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Layer Cake A delightful cake deserves equally delightful companions to enhance your dessert experience and create a memorable meal. Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy balance to the cake’s tartness, making each bite even more indulgent. Fresh Berries: Serve alongside a mix of strawberries and blueberries for a burst of freshness that plays off the cake’s flavors beautifully. The juicy pop of berries adds a refreshing contrast to the rich buttercream. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream complements the citrus and tart flavors, providing a satisfying contrast in temperature and texture. Drizzle with a touch of orange syrup for a cohesive flavor experience. Herbal Tea: A cup of chamomile or mint tea provides a soothing contrast to the sweetness of the cake while enhancing the cake’s citrus notes. Sparkling Water with Lemon: Refreshing sparkling water with a hint of lemon adds a zesty kick that cleanses the palate between bites, making it a perfect hydration choice with dessert. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, introduces a savory element that balances the cake’s sweetness. Pair with honey for a delightful sweet-savory experience. Chocolate Ganache: Drizzling warm chocolate ganache over a slice adds a decadent chocolate note, creating a sumptuous contrast with the bright citrus flavors in the cake. A true treat for chocolate lovers! How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Layer Cake Fridge: Store your leftover Cranberry Orange Layer Cake in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Allow it to reach room temperature before serving for the best taste. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheating: To enjoy a slice of cake warmed, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Assembling Tips: If you’ve baked your layers ahead of time, frost them the same day you plan to serve. This will keep the cake fresh and delicious! Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Zesty Citrus Buttercream Recipe FAQs How do I pick the right cranberries for the cake? Absolutely! Look for cranberries that are firm and bright in color. They should be plump, without any dark spots or bruises. Fresh cranberries are best, but if you opt for frozen, make sure to thaw them completely before using. This ensures they break down beautifully in the filling. What’s the best way to store leftovers? To keep your Cranberry Orange Layer Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge where it will last for up to 3-4 days. It’s a good idea to let it reach room temperature before serving again. This helps to revive those wonderful flavors! Can I freeze the cake layers? Very much so! To freeze, wrap each cooled cake layer tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air touches the surface. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. These layers can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting or serving. What should I do if my cake layers domed in the middle? No worries! If your cake layers have domed, you can simply use a serrated knife to level them off gently. This creates a perfect base for stacking and frosting. Plus, it gives your cake an elegant, professional look. Just be careful to cut a little at a time until you achieve a flat surface. Are there any dietary substitutes I can use? Absolutely! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substitute the unsalted butter with vegan butter and use almond or soy milk mixed with lemon juice instead of buttermilk. For egg replacements, aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) works wonderfully, allowing you to enjoy this cake without traditional eggs, making it inclusive for all diets! How long can I keep the cake filling and frosting? You can store any leftover cranberry filling and citrus buttercream in the fridge for up to a week. Just be sure to keep them in sealed containers. If you want to use them later, you can also freeze the buttercream for up to 3 months—just thaw and re-whip before using. Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream Bliss This Cranberry Orange Layer Cake with Citrus Buttercream is a stunning dessert perfect for any occasion, combining vibrant flavors with simplicity. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cake3 cups All-Purpose Flour Feel free to swap in cake flour for a lighter texture.2 cups Granulated Sugar Coconut sugar can be used as an alternative.1 tbsp Baking Powder Ensure it's fresh for a proper rise.1 tsp Baking Soda No substitutions needed here!1 tsp Salt Kosher salt works great if available.1 cup Unsalted Butter Vegan butter can be substituted.3 large Eggs Aquafaba can be used for a vegan option.1 cup Orange Juice Fresh juice is best.2 tbsp Orange Zest A microplane zest tool makes this task easier.1 cup Buttermilk Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice if out.2 cups Fresh or Frozen Cranberries Thaw frozen cranberries before use.For the Filling2 cups Fresh Cranberries Essential for the filling!1 cup Granulated Sugar Adjust to taste based on preference.1/2 cup Orange Juice Freshness enhances the flavor.2 tbsp Orange Zest Avoid skimping on this ingredient!For the Citrus Buttercream1 cup Unsalted Butter Vegan butter can substitute.4 cups Powdered Sugar Adjust to your liking.1/4 cup Orange Juice Fresh juice yields the best flavor.2 tbsp Orange Zest A little zest enhances the buttercream. Equipment 8-inch round cake pansmixing bowlsElectric Mixerspatulasaucepan Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.Cream butter and sugar together for 3-5 minutes, then add eggs one at a time and mix in orange zest and juice.Alternately add the dry mix and buttermilk to the creamed mixture until just combined.Divide the batter among the prepared cake pans and bake for 22-25 minutes.For the cranberry filling, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and zest in a saucepan and cook for 10 minutes.Prepare the buttercream by beating butter, gradually adding powdered sugar, then mixing in orange juice and zest.Assemble the cake by layering with buttercream and cranberry filling between cake layers. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 58gProtein: 4gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 35gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure eggs are at room temperature for better emulsion. Avoid overmixing the batter to keep it fluffy. Allow layers to cool completely before frosting. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
