There’s something magical about the combination of cranberry and orange, especially when it comes to cake. Imagine the sweet-tart burst of cranberries mingling with the zesty brightness of oranges, all encased in a moist, tender crumb. Now, add a drizzle of olive oil into the mix, and you have yourself a dessert that sings joy with every bite. This Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake is not just a cake; it’s an experience that will make your taste buds dance like no one is watching.
As I recall my first attempt at baking this delightful treat, I remember the kitchen smelling like a citrus grove kissed by autumn. It was one of those moments where everything felt right—my friends gathered around, laughter filling the air, and all we could think about was devouring this gorgeous creation. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, a casual Sunday brunch, or simply to impress your neighbor (who thinks they can bake better than you), this cake is sure to be the star of any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake
- This incredible Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake:
- All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of our cake. Use unbleached flour for better flavor and texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is essential! Adjust according to your taste preference.
- Baking Powder: This is our secret weapon for achieving that perfect rise and fluffy texture.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all other flavors; don’t skip it!
- Olive Oil: Choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor and moisture.
- Eggs: These provide structure and richness; make sure they’re at room temperature.
- Fresh Oranges: Zest and juice are both used here to infuse vibrant flavor throughout the cake.
- Cranberries: Fresh or frozen work well; they add that delightful tartness we crave!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan with olive oil or nonstick spray so your cake can slide out easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until combined. Set aside so they can mingle before joining the party.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat together the sugar and olive oil until smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time while mixing well after each addition. Pour in the fresh orange juice along with its zest—this is where the magic happens!
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Gradually add in the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while stirring gently until just combined. Don’t overmix; we want our cake fluffy, not tough!
Step 5: Fold in Cranberries
Gently fold in those beautiful cranberries until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. They’ll be little bursts of joy when you bite into them!
Step 6: Bake Away
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with some leftover orange glaze or serve plain—either way, you’re going to love this delightful treat!
You Must Know About Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake
- This showstopping Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and preparing your baking pan. Mix your dry ingredients first, then whisk the wet ingredients separately. Combine all together, fold in cranberries, and pour into the pan. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean, ensuring a beautifully moist cake.
Flavor Your Way
Feel free to swap cranberries with blueberries or raspberries for a different fruity twist. You could also add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for some extra warmth. Want a fun surprise? Toss in some chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the zesty orange.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to two months. Reheat slices gently in the microwave or enjoy cold.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake
- This professional-quality Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Baking this cake reminds me of the first time I made it for my family; they couldn’t stop raving about how moist and flavorful it was! It became an instant favorite at our holiday gatherings, leaving everyone begging for more slices.
FAQs
What is Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake?
Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of fresh oranges. Made with high-quality olive oil, this cake offers a unique twist on traditional recipes, providing a rich texture and lovely aroma. The use of olive oil not only enhances the taste but also makes the cake healthier compared to those made with butter. This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual afternoon tea.
How do you make Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake?
To make Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake, start by preheating your oven and greasing a cake pan. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in one bowl. In another bowl, whisk together olive oil, sugar, eggs, orange juice, and zest. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until combined. Gently fold in fresh or frozen cranberries before pouring the batter into the prepared pan. Bake until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Allow it to cool before serving for optimal flavor.
Can I substitute ingredients in Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake?
Yes, you can substitute several ingredients in Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake to suit your taste or dietary needs. For instance, you can use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a healthier option. If you prefer gluten-free options, try using almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. You can also replace fresh cranberries with dried ones if that’s what you have on hand; however, be mindful that dried cranberries will add extra sweetness.
What pairs well with Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake?
Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that balances the tartness of the cake. Additionally, serving it alongside fresh citrus slices or a drizzle of orange glaze can elevate its presentation and taste even further. For beverages, consider pairing it with tea or coffee for an enjoyable afternoon treat.
Conclusion
In summary, Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake is a deliciously unique dessert that combines tart cranberries with refreshing orange flavors while utilizing healthy olive oil as its base. This cake is perfect for any occasion and offers various opportunities for ingredient substitutions to suit your dietary preferences. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with whipped cream or ice cream, this cake is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more!
Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Description
Cranberry Orange Olive Oil Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors. The vibrant zest of fresh oranges combined with juicy cranberries creates a moist, tender cake enriched with high-quality olive oil. Ideal for any occasion, this cake is not only visually stunning but also simple to make. Serve it plain or elevate it with a drizzle of orange glaze for an extra burst of flavor that will leave your guests wanting more.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- Zest and juice of 2 fresh oranges
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the sugar and olive oil until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the orange juice and zest.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing.
- Gently fold in cranberries until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg






