Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake

Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that brings together the bright flavors of fresh orange and tart cranberries. This moist cake is perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack, making it suitable for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy family brunches. Its unique combination of zesty orange and tangy cranberries will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Combination: The pairing of cranberries and orange creates a refreshing flavor profile that is both sweet and tart.
• Moist Texture: Made with buttermilk, this coffee cake ensures a tender, moist crumb that melts in your mouth.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this delicious dessert.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert, this coffee cake fits in seamlessly at any gathering.
• Festive Appeal: The vibrant colors make it a visually appealing addition to your holiday table.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9 x 9 baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (or whisk)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9 x 9 baking dish: This size is ideal for evenly baking the coffee cake while allowing it to rise properly.
• Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and effort in creaming butter and sugar together for a fluffy texture.
• Rubber spatula: A rubber spatula helps in folding ingredients gently without deflating the batter.

Ingredients

To create your delicious Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cake

• 1/2 cup butter (softened)
• zest of one orange
• 1 Cup (plus 1 Tablespoon Sugar)
• 1 egg (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/4 cup orange juice (use juice of zested orange)
• 2 Cups all-purpose flour (plus 2 Tablespoons)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 Cups fresh cranberries (or thawed from freezer)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

How to Make Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9 x 9 baking dish by greasing it with non-stick cooking spray for easy removal.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter and the zest of one orange. Use an electric mixer to cream these together until light and fluffy.
1. Add sugar gradually while mixing.
2. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract until well blended.

Step 3: Prepare Cranberries

In another bowl, toss your fresh or thawed cranberries with 2 tablespoons of flour. This will help prevent them from sinking in the batter later on.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, mix together:
– Flour
– Baking powder
– Salt

Stir until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to your butter mixture alternately with buttermilk.
1. Start with flour, then add buttermilk, continuing until all are incorporated.
2. Pour in the orange juice and mix thoroughly. Scrape down sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 6: Fold in Cranberries

Gently fold in the prepared cranberries using a rubber spatula until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake Your Cake

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining sugar on top for a sparkling finish.
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 35–45 minutes or until golden brown.
2. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
3. Allow cooling for about 15 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your warm slice of Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake!

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake

Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Strawberries – Add a refreshing touch by serving with fresh sliced strawberries on the side.
• Mixed Berries – A bowl of mixed berries like blueberries and raspberries complements the cake’s flavors beautifully.

With Whipped Cream

• Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream adds creaminess and balances the tartness of cranberries.
• Flavored Whipped Cream – Try adding a hint of orange zest to your whipped cream for an extra citrusy kick.

With Hot Beverages

• Coffee – The classic choice! Pairing it with hot coffee enhances the cake’s rich flavors.
• Herbal Tea – A calming cup of herbal tea can provide a soothing contrast to the sweetness of the coffee cake.

How to Perfect Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake

To ensure your Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake turns out perfectly each time, consider these helpful tips.

• Keep Ingredients at Room Temperature – Using room temperature butter and eggs helps create a smoother batter.
• Use Fresh Cranberries – Fresh cranberries provide the best flavor and texture; if using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix just until combined to keep your cake tender and fluffy.
• Check for Doneness Early – Ovens can vary; check your cake 5 minutes before the suggested baking time to prevent overbaking.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt – Creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and pairs well with the sweetness of the cake.
2. Scrambled Eggs – Savory scrambled eggs provide a hearty balance to the sweetness of the coffee cake.
3. Fruit Salad – A colorful fruit salad refreshes the palate and complements the orange flavors in the cake.
4. Nut Butter Toast – Whole grain toast spread with almond or peanut butter offers a satisfying crunch alongside the soft cake.
5. Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting contrast to the sweetness of Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake.
6. Granola Parfait – Layered granola with yogurt and berries provides a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the moist cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the zest: Not using fresh orange zest means missing out on vibrant flavor. Always zest the orange before juicing it for the best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Ignoring baking time: Baking for too long can dry out your cake. Start checking for doneness at the minimum baking time with a toothpick.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or buttermilk can affect the texture of your cake. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Forgetting to flour cranberries: Not tossing cranberries in flour can cause them to sink during baking. Lightly coat them in flour to keep them suspended in the batter.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• item Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake

• item Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• item Label with the date for easy identification later.

Reheating Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat wrapped slices in foil for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a plate for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that it has xanthan gum for proper texture and rise.

Can I use frozen cranberries in my Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them into the batter.

What is buttermilk, and can I make it at home?

Buttermilk is fermented milk that adds moisture and tanginess. You can make it by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, letting it sit for 5-10 minutes.

Can I add nuts or other fruits to this coffee cake?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake by adding chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch, or substitute cranberries with blueberries or raspberries.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry Orange Buttermilk Coffee Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its combination of sweet and tart flavors makes it perfect for breakfast or dessert. Experiment with different fruits or nuts to make this recipe your own!