Ingredients
Cake Batter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- Zest from 1 orange
- 1 cup + 1 tablespoon sugar, divided
- 1 egg, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups (256 g) all-purpose flour, divided
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- ½ cup buttermilk
Instructions
- Preheat and cream butter: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, orange zest, and 1 cup of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps incorporate air for a tender cake.
- Add egg and vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined and smooth. Meanwhile, toss the fresh cranberries with 2 tablespoons of the flour to prevent them from sinking during baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining flour, baking powder, and kosher salt to ensure even distribution of leavening.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture in portions, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Use a gentle folding technique to keep the batter light.
- Fold in cranberries: Carefully fold the floured cranberries into the batter to evenly distribute them without breaking the berries.
- Prepare pan and bake: Grease a 9-inch square baking pan with butter or non-stick spray. Spread the batter evenly in the pan. Sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of sugar evenly on top to add a subtle sugary crust.
- Bake and check doneness: Bake for 35 minutes, then check for doneness by gently touching the top or inserting a toothpick in the center. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, continue baking, checking every 5 minutes. Total bake time may be up to 50 minutes.
- Cool before serving: Once baked through, remove from oven and let the cake cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes to allow it to set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh cranberries; frozen can be used but may add extra moisture.
- This cake can be made a day ahead and stored wrapped at room temperature.
- Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to ensure even mixing and texture.
- If desired, dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish.
- The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so check for doneness early to avoid over-baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American