If you’ve ever dreamed of enjoying a coffee cake that bursts with tart cranberries, snuggled together with sweet white chocolate and a touch of citrus zing, then this Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe is made just for you. It marries the cozy warmth of a classic coffee cake with a festive sparkle that’s perfect for holiday mornings, brunches with friends, or whenever you want a slice of joy alongside your cup of coffee. Each bite offers buttery softness, juicy pops of cranberry, and that irresistible white chocolate melt that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients come together beautifully in this recipe, each playing an essential role in creating its delightful flavor and tender crumb. From the zing of orange zest to the buttery base, every component enhances the Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe’s unforgettable taste and texture.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation that gives the cake structure and crumb.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the sour cream for lightness and lift.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies the flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and a tender texture.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens just right without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients while boosting moisture.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Infuses moisture and slight tang for a moist cake.
- 1/4 cup milk: Keeps the batter smooth and silky.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest: Brings a fresh and bright citrus note.
- 1 cup dried cranberries: The tangy star ingredient bursting with chewiness.
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips: Sweet pockets of creamy indulgence.
- For the topping: 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (melted), 1/4 cup dried cranberries (chopped), and optionally 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese for a luscious glaze drizzle.
How to Make Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch pan and lightly dust it with flour or line it with parchment paper for an easy release. This prepping step ensures your coffee cake will bake evenly and come out beautifully when cooled.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well now will help your coffee cake rise uniformly and develop the perfect crumb structure.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This process traps air that lifts the batter, contributing to the cake’s tender, cloud-like texture that makes every bite so satisfying.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Sour Cream, and Flavors
Beat in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Then stir in sour cream, milk, vanilla extract, and the bright orange zest until everything is harmoniously combined, creating a luscious batter bursting with subtle tang and citrus aroma.
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Mix-Ins
Spoon in the flour mixture gradually, folding just until you no longer see dry flour streaks. Overmixing can make cakes dense, so gentle is key. Then carefully fold in dried cranberries and white chocolate chips, so each bite offers a luscious burst of sweetness and chew.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour your fragrant batter into the prepared pan, smoothing out the surface with a spatula. Pop it into the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should puff up with a golden crust hinting at the soft, tender delight inside.
Step 7: Add the Topping
Once fully cooled, drizzle the melted white chocolate chips over the top, then sprinkle chopped dried cranberries for that signature jewel-like sparkle. If you fancy, whisk softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and a few drops of milk to create a thin glaze and elegantly drizzle it on top for an extra layer of heavenly sweetness.
How to Serve Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Simple yet stunning garnishes can elevate this coffee cake from fantastic to show-stopping. Fresh orange zest sprinkles or a light dusting of powdered sugar add lovely brightness. Tossing extra dried cranberries on top creates an inviting burst of red that’s as cheerful as it is tasty.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a cozy mug of chai tea. To round out a brunch spread, serve with fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a mild cheese plate to balance the cake’s sweet-tart dance on your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the cake into neat squares and arrange them on a decorative platter layered with parchment or greenery sprigs for a festive touch. You can also serve small wedges with a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone for an elegant dessert vibe that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigerate to extend their life by several days while preserving the cake’s moist texture and vibrant flavors.
Freezing
This coffee cake freezes wonderfully. Slice into portions and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. You can keep them frozen for up to two months and enjoy a perfect slice whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
To revive the cake’s softness, warm slices in a microwave for 15–20 seconds or toast gently in an oven set to 300°F until warmed through. The white chocolate topping will soften, making each bite even more delectable.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried for this Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh or frozen cranberries add a burst of tart juiciness. Just reduce the amount to 3/4 cup and toss them in a little flour before folding in to prevent them from sinking during baking.
Is this cake gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it isn’t gluten-free as written. However, you can try substituting a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, though the texture might vary slightly.
Can I make this cake vegan?
To make it vegan, you’d need to replace the butter with a vegan alternative, eggs with flax or chia egg replacements, and use plant-based sour cream and milk. The outcome is delicious but will differ slightly in texture and richness.
What’s the best way to melt white chocolate chips for the topping?
The gentlest way is using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring often to avoid burning. White chocolate is delicate, so patience ensures a smooth, glossy drizzle.
Can I double this recipe for a larger cake?
Yes! Just double all ingredients and bake in a larger pan, like a 9×13 inch. Keep an eye on baking time—it may take a bit longer, so test doneness with a toothpick.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe has truly become a beloved favorite in my kitchen, delivering warmth, zest, and festive sweetness in every slice. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a delicious treat to start your day, it’s a recipe worth sharing and savoring. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it part of your own joyful baking traditions!
Print
Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake combines tart dried cranberries with sweet white chocolate chips for a delightful brunch or holiday treat. Moist and tender with a hint of orange zest, it’s topped with melted white chocolate and cranberries for an irresistible finish.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
Add-ins
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
Topping
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped
- Optional: 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened (for drizzle)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined for even leavening.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a tender cake texture.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Then stir in sour cream, milk, vanilla extract, and orange zest until completely combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing gently just until incorporated to avoid overmixing and keep the cake tender.
- Fold in Cranberries and White Chocolate: Carefully fold in the dried cranberries and white chocolate chips to evenly distribute throughout the batter.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top evenly. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool Cake: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack to firm up before adding the topping.
- Prepare Topping and Garnish: Melt the white chocolate chips and drizzle them over the cooled cake. Sprinkle chopped dried cranberries on top. Optionally, whisk the softened cream cheese with a little powdered sugar and milk to create a thin glaze and drizzle over the cake.
- Serve: Slice the coffee cake into 9 servings and enjoy as a perfect holiday brunch or dessert treat.
Notes
- For a fresher taste, substitute dried cranberries with fresh or frozen cranberries; reduce to 3/4 cup and toss with flour to prevent sinking in the batter.
- This cake works well for brunch gatherings or holiday celebrations offering a Starbucks-inspired flavor.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before drizzling toppings to avoid melting.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner slicing.
