Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of a coffee cake that beautifully blends tart cranberries, luscious white chocolate, and a hint of warm spice, then you are in for an absolute treat with this Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe. This delightful dessert strikes the perfect balance between tangy and sweet, with a creamy frosting and a tender crumb that practically begs for a second slice. Whether you’re gathering friends for brunch or craving a cozy afternoon pick-me-up, this coffee cake will make every bite feel like a celebration of flavors and textures.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe just right hinges on a handful of simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays an essential role to deliver that charming blend of moist cake, zingy cranberries, and indulgent white chocolate, elevated by a dreamy cream cheese frosting with hints of orange.

• 2 large eggs: These provide structure and moisture, helping the cake stay tender.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a soft crumb.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Gives a warm, familiar flavor base.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, providing body and texture.
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise perfectly without being too dense.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Boosts leavening for a light and fluffy crumb.
• ½ to 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a cozy spice note, perfectly complementing the cranberries.
• ½ cup melted butter: Lends richness and a tender, buttery mouthfeel.
• ½ cup buttermilk or sour cream: Brings moisture and a slight tang for balance.
• ¾ cup white chocolate chips: Sweet bursts of creamy indulgence scattered throughout the cake.
• ¾ cup dried cranberries (soaked and drained): Tart, juicy spots that brighten every bite.
• 8 ounces cream cheese (softened): The star ingredient in the frosting, adding luscious creaminess.
• ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for that perfect spreadable texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the frosting’s flavor depth.
• ½ teaspoon orange extract or zest of ½ orange: Adds a fresh, citrusy note that makes the frosting pop.
• 2 tablespoons white chocolate chips (melted): For that pretty drizzle on top.
• ⅔ cup dried cranberries (soaked and drained): The final tart touch sprinkled over the frosting.

How to Make Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8 inch baking pan to ensure your cake releases easily after baking, setting the stage for a flawless presentation.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and slightly pale. This combination forms the moist base and adds a lovely natural sweetness.

Step 3: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and ground ginger. This step ensures the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed, giving the cake its perfect rise and warm undertone.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, alternating with melted butter and buttermilk or sour cream. Mixing just until combined is key here to keep the crumb tender and prevent overworking the batter.

Step 5: Fold in Cranberries and White Chocolate

Gently incorporate the soaked and drained dried cranberries along with white chocolate chips. These add bursts of tartness and sweet creaminess that define this Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before moving on to the frosting – patience here will reward you!

Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth, then add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and orange extract or zest. Beat until creamy and fluffy – this frosting is where all the lovely citrus and tang come alive to complement the cake’s flavors.

Step 8: Frost the Cake

Spread the luscious cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake, covering every nook and cranny. This layer adds richness and a velvety texture that marries beautifully with the tender cake base.

Step 9: Add the Final Toppings

Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the frosting with a steady hand for a touch of elegance. Then sprinkle with additional soaked cranberries for a fresh pop of color and tartness.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Cut your Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe into squares and share the joy. Whether with morning coffee or afternoon tea, this cake is guaranteed to brighten any table.

How to Serve Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance presentation by adding a few fresh cranberries or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top. If you really want to impress guests, a small sprig of fresh mint can add color and a hint of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s richness.

Side Dishes

This coffee cake pairs perfectly with a simple cup of your favorite brew, whether it’s robust coffee or fragrant chai. For a brunch, serve alongside creamy yogurt with honey and toasted nuts to complement the cake’s tart-sweet profile.

Creamy Ways to Present

Try serving slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist. Plating it with a drizzle of warm berry coulis also amps up the cranberry flavor while adding a stunning visual element.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe covered tightly at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to five days. The cream cheese frosting stays freshest when refrigerated.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake baked and frosted by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and then foil, freezing for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to keep the texture just right.

Reheating

Warm slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds to bring out that freshly baked feel. Be careful not to overheat, as the frosting can become too soft and melt away.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?

Fresh cranberries are much more tart and contain more moisture, which might affect the cake’s texture. If you love the flavor of fresh cranberries, try finely chopping them and adjusting the liquid ingredients slightly to compensate.

What if I don’t have buttermilk or sour cream?

No worries! You can easily make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to half a cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using to mimic buttermilk’s tanginess.

How do I ensure the cake stays moist?

Be careful not to overmix the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Also, soaking dried cranberries adds moisture to the cake. Baking just until a toothpick comes out clean ensures it stays soft and tender.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that has baking powder included, and be sure it’s suitable for baking. The texture might vary slightly but the flavor will still shine through beautifully.

Is it possible to omit the white chocolate?

Absolutely! While white chocolate adds a creamy sweetness, you can leave it out or replace it with semi-sweet chips or even chopped nuts if you prefer. The cranberries will still add a lovely tart contrast.

Final Thoughts

Grab your mixing bowl and get ready to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas because this Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe is truly one to treasure. It’s a simple yet elegant treat that feels special enough for celebrations but easy enough for everyday gatherings. Trust me, once you try this cake, it’ll quickly become your go-to for sharing sweet moments with family and friends.

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