The moment I sliced into this Cranberry Orange Holiday Cake, the room filled with a burst of citrusy sweetness mingled with tart cranberry surprises—like a festive celebration in every bite. It’s one of those recipes that feels both elegant and comforting, perfect for those who crave homemade warmth without spending all day in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply want to brighten an ordinary afternoon, this cake brings together bright flavors and a tender crumb that’s sure to delight everyone around your table. If you’re tired of the usual desserts and want something that tastes like a holiday hug, this cake might just become your new favorite tradition.

Why choose Cranberry Orange Holiday Cake?

Bright flavor combo: Tangy cranberries and zesty orange make each bite a festive burst of joy.
Simple yet impressive: Easy-to-follow steps deliver a stunning dessert without fuss.
Versatile delight: Perfect for holiday parties or cozy weekend treats.
Crowd-pleaser: Balances sweet and tart to satisfy every palate.
Homemade warmth: Brings seasonal comfort with every slice, making your kitchen the heart of celebrations.

Cranberry Orange Holiday Cake Ingredients

For the Cake Batter

All-purpose flour – Provides the perfect tender crumb base for your Cranberry Orange Holiday Cake.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens while helping the cake stay moist and golden.
Baking powder – Gives the cake its light, fluffy texture.
Salt – Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the delicate citrus notes.
Butter – Adds richness and keeps the crumb soft and buttery.
Eggs – Bind the ingredients and add structure to the cake.
Fresh orange zest – Infuses bright, zesty flavor that makes this cake uniquely festive.
Orange juice – Moisturizes the batter with natural sweetness and citrus tang.
Vanilla extract – Elevates the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
Fresh or frozen cranberries – Bring vibrant color and a lovely tart contrast to the sweetness.

For the Glaze

Powdered sugar – Creates a smooth, sweet finish for drizzling.
Orange juice – Keeps the glaze light and flavorful, tying it back to the cake’s citrus notes.
Optional orange zest – Adds extra zing and visual appeal to the glaze.

For Optional Garnish

Whole cranberries – For a festive, jewel-like decoration.
Fresh rosemary sprigs – Add a hint of pine-scented freshness, perfect for holiday tables.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Holiday Cake

For the Cake Batter:

Preheat: Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch bundt pan, dusting with flour until evenly coated to prevent sticking and ensure a golden-brown crust on your festive holiday cake.
Whisk: Whisk all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl until fully combined, ensuring a light base that promotes a tender, airy crumb in every delightful slice.
Beat: Beat softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed for about 3 minutes, scraping down the bowl once to achieve a pale, fluffy mixture perfect for trapping air.
Add: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in orange zest, vanilla, and orange juice until just incorporated, creating a fragrant, smooth batter ready for cranberries.
Fold: Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet batter in two additions, alternating with extra orange juice. Stop folding once no flour streaks remain and the batter looks smooth.
Add: Fold fresh or frozen cranberries gently into the batter, ensuring vibrant red bursts throughout. The tart fruit adds delightful pops of color and flavor in every single slice.
Bake: Transfer batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake at 350°F on center rack for 45–50 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool: Cool in pan for 10 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack. Let cake cool completely to room temperature, ensuring a firm base for the glaze without melting drizzle.

For the Glaze:

Combine: Combine powdered sugar and fresh orange juice in a medium bowl, whisking vigorously until silky smooth, gradually adding juice until glaze coats the back of a spoon for easy drizzling.
Drizzle: Drizzle glaze evenly over the cooled cake, letting it cascade down the sides in elegant ribbons. Allow glaze to set for 5 minutes before slicing to avoid smudging.

Optional: Garnish cake with fresh rosemary and cranberries for festive appeal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Holiday Cake

Room Temperature: Store leftover cake at room temperature for up to 3 days by covering it with plastic wrap or a cake dome to keep it moist.

Fridge: If you’re looking to keep the cake fresh a bit longer, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Glaze it just before serving to maintain its visual appeal.

Freezer: You can freeze the Cranberry Orange Holiday Cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature, and enjoy it at room temperature or pop a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a warm treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Orange Holiday Cakes are perfect for meal prep, letting you savor the joy of baking while saving time on busy days! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing everything and storing it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply bring the batter to room temperature and pour it into the bundt pan before baking, ensuring a light, fluffy texture. Additionally, the glaze can be made up to 3 days beforehand and stored in an airtight container in the fridge; just give it a good stir before drizzling over the cooled cake. This way, your festive cake will taste just as delicious as if it were made fresh!

Cranberry Orange Holiday Cake Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful cake and make it uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a deliciously moist cake everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Twist: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch that complements the juicy cranberries.
Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for an extra layer of warm, aromatic flavor—perfect for the holiday spirit.
Vegan Option: Swap out eggs for flax eggs and use almond milk instead of orange juice, keeping the flavor and texture vibrant and light.
Cranberry Sauce Addition: Swirl in 1/2 cup of homemade or store-bought cranberry sauce into the batter for added moisture and a burst of flavor.
Orange Marmalade Glaze: Instead of a simple glaze, whisk together powdered sugar and orange marmalade for a sweet, tangy topping that pairs beautifully.
Lemon Zest Upgrade: Use lemon zest and juice instead of orange for a refreshing twist that brings a bright, citrusy zing to the cake.
Boozy Infusion: Add a splash of orange liqueur to the batter for a sophisticated flavor kick that elevates your holiday dessert experience.

Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Holiday Cake

Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the batter mix evenly, resulting in a moist, tender cake perfect for your Cranberry Orange Holiday Cake.
Don’t overmix the batter: Fold dry ingredients gently until just combined to keep the crumb light and fluffy, avoiding a dense, tough texture.
Fresh vs. frozen cranberries: Fresh cranberries provide bursts of tartness, but frozen work well too—just fold them in straight from the freezer to prevent color bleeding.
Proper pan prep: Thoroughly grease and flour your bundt pan to ensure easy cake release and a beautiful presentation.
Glaze consistency matters: Add orange juice gradually to the powdered sugar for a smooth, drizzle-ready glaze that sets nicely without running off the cake.

What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Holiday Cake?

Indulging in this delightful cake sets the perfect stage for creating a full festive spread that will warm hearts and brighten your gatherings.

Spiced Hot Cider: The warmth and spices complement the cake’s fruity flavors, making every sip a cozy experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop adds creaminess and balances the tartness of the cranberries with a classic touch.
Gingerbread Cookies: Their rich spices create a wonderful contrast to the cake’s refreshing citrus notes, making for a nostalgic pairing.
Herb-Infused Cheesecake: The creaminess and subtle herb hints offer a luxurious counterpoint to the zesty cake, elevating your dessert table.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate: A festive drink choice, its sweetness harmonizes with the cake, creating a joyful celebration in each sip.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Brighten your meal with a vibrant rainbow of seasonal fruits that echo the cake’s flavors, offering a refreshing touch.
Sparkling Wine: A bubbly toast adds elegance to your dessert, enhancing the cake’s festive attributes with each crisp sip.

Elevate your dessert experience and create lasting memories by serving these delightful accompaniments alongside your Cranberry Orange Holiday Cake!

Cranberry Orange Holiday Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I know when my cranberries are ripe and ready for the cake?
Choose bright, firm cranberries that are deep red and have a glossy skin. Avoid any with soft spots or blemishes. Fresh cranberries should “spring” when squeezed lightly—this freshness ensures the perfect tart burst in your cake.

What’s the best way to store leftover Cranberry Orange Holiday Cake?
I recommend storing it at room temperature, covered with plastic wrap or a cake dome, for up to 3 days to keep it moist. If you want it to last longer, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to add the glaze right before serving to keep it looking fresh!

Can I freeze Cranberry Orange Holiday Cake for future enjoyment?
Absolutely! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then wrap it again in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw it overnight in the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours. Warm up slices briefly in the microwave (10–15 seconds) to bring back that tender, fresh-baked feel.

My cake turned out dense rather than light and fluffy—what went wrong?
This is a common hiccup! It often happens when the batter is overmixed or the baking powder has lost its potency. Try folding the batter gently and only until combined, as overmixing develops gluten making the cake dense. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh—if it’s older than 6 months, replace it. Proper oven temperature is key too; an oven thermometer can help verify accuracy.

Is this cake safe for pets if they want a little taste?
I would advise against sharing this cake with pets. Cranberries can sometimes upset their stomachs, and the sugar and butter content aren’t suited for their digestion. Instead, spoil them with pet-safe treats to keep everyone happy during the holiday feast!