There are certain flavors that instantly signal the holiday season, and cranberry paired with bright, fragrant orange is one of the most beloved combinations of all. This Cranberry Orange Christmas Cake is everything a holiday dessert should be: soft, tender, beautifully aromatic, and filled with pops of tart cranberry sweetness balanced by citrusy warmth. It’s the kind of cake that feels just as appropriate served at a Christmas brunch as it does on a dessert table after a festive dinner.

Unlike overly heavy fruitcakes or complicated layered desserts, this cake is refreshingly simple to prepare while still delivering big holiday flavor. It’s moist without being dense, sweet without being cloying, and elegant enough to impress guests without requiring advanced baking skills. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, looking for a homemade gift idea, or simply want a cozy cake to enjoy with coffee by the tree, this recipe deserves a spot in your seasonal rotation.

Why Cranberry and Orange Are a Holiday Power Duo

Cranberries have long been associated with winter celebrations thanks to their vibrant color and naturally tart flavor. When paired with orange — both zest and juice — they transform into something truly special. The citrus enhances the cranberries’ brightness while mellowing their sharpness, creating a balanced flavor that feels festive and comforting at the same time.

In this cake, the orange zest perfumes the batter, while fresh cranberries burst during baking, creating pockets of juicy tartness throughout the crumb. The result is a cake that tastes bright and cheerful, even during the coldest days of winter.

What Makes This Christmas Cake Special

Perfectly moist texture thanks to butter, eggs, and fresh orange juice
Naturally festive colors from whole cranberries
Simple, classic ingredients you can find anywhere
Versatile serving options — glaze it, dust it, or serve plain
Make-ahead friendly, ideal for busy holiday schedules

This isn’t just a dessert — it’s a memory-maker. The scent alone as it bakes will fill your kitchen with holiday magic.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 tablespoons fresh orange zest
¾ cup fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ½ cups fresh cranberries (halved if large)
Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch round or bundt pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Mix in orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
Gently fold in the cranberries using a spatula.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

Tips for the Best Cranberry Orange Cake

Use fresh cranberries for the best texture and flavor. Frozen cranberries work too — don’t thaw them first.
Room temperature ingredients ensure a smoother batter and even baking.
Don’t overmix once the flour is added to keep the crumb tender.
Zest before juicing your oranges for maximum aroma and ease.

Delicious Variations

Orange Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with fresh orange juice and drizzle over the cooled cake.
Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Spiced Version: Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
Mini Loaves: Bake in loaf pans for gift-giving (adjust bake time accordingly).

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream
Pair with hot tea, coffee, or mulled wine
Dress it up with sugared cranberries for a showstopping centerpiece
Enjoy leftovers toasted lightly with butter for breakfast

Holiday Baking Fun Fact

Cranberries are one of only three fruits native to North America commonly harvested commercially. Their peak season aligns perfectly with the holidays, making them a natural choice for festive baking traditions.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This cake keeps beautifully. Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. It also freezes well — wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.