Name: Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake RECIPE
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large eggs; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; ¼ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp baking powder; ½ – 1 tsp ground ginger; ½ cup melted butter; ½ cup buttermilk or sour cream; ¾ cup white chocolate chips; ¾ cup dried cranberries (soaked in warm water for 20 minutes, drained and towel dried); 8 oz cream cheese (softened); ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ tsp orange extract or zest of ½ orange; 2 Tbsp white chocolate chips (melted); ⅔ cup dried cranberries (soaked in warm water for 20 minutes, drained and towel dried)

Jump to Recipe

There is something irresistibly delightful about a Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake RECIPE that perfectly balances tart cranberries with luscious white chocolate and a creamy frosting. This cake is like a warm hug on a chilly morning or a festive treat during holiday gatherings. With moist, tender crumb infused with subtle spice and a tangy cream cheese topping dotted with vibrant cranberries, this coffee cake is a symphony of flavors and textures that will quickly become your go-to baked treasure.

Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake RECIPE - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake RECIPE plays a crucial role in creating its unique flavor and texture. From the moistening buttermilk to the tart-sweet cranberries and the rich cream cheese frosting, every component is simple yet essential.

2 large eggs: Act as a binder to hold everything together while adding richness.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps give it a tender crumb.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for a soft but sturdy cake.
¼ tsp baking soda: Helps the cake rise for a light texture.
½ tsp baking powder: A little extra lift for perfect fluffiness.
½ to 1 tsp ground ginger: Adds a subtle spicy note that makes the cake memorable.
½ cup melted butter: Ensures a moist and tender crumb with buttery flavor.
½ cup buttermilk or sour cream: Makes the cake incredibly moist and tender with a slight tang.
¾ cup white chocolate chips: Melts into sweet pockets bursting with creamy goodness.
¾ cup dried cranberries: Soaked and dried to plump them up, offering tart bursts in every bite.
8 oz softened cream cheese: The base for the luscious frosting that adds creamy tang.
½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting perfectly without graininess.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the cream cheese frosting with smooth aroma.
½ tsp orange extract or zest of ½ orange: A bright citrus lift that complements the cranberry beautifully.
2 Tbsp white chocolate chips (melted): For drizzling a glossy, sweet finish.
⅔ cups dried cranberries (soaked and drained): To sprinkle on top, adding vibrant bursts of tartness and color.

How to Make Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake RECIPE

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit with the rack in the middle position. This ensures even cooking while you prepare the batter. Lightly grease a 9-inch square or a 10-inch round baking pan with nonstick spray, or use butter and flour to prevent the cake from sticking. Taking this extra step makes sure your cake can be easily removed after baking without losing any of its beautiful crust.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Next, sift in the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and ground ginger. Stir these dry ingredients into the wet just until incorporated—overmixing can make the cake tough, so gentle folding is key. Then, add the melted butter and buttermilk or sour cream, whisking after each addition. Finally, fold in the white chocolate chips and the soaked, dried cranberries, being careful not to break them up. This mixture will already smell heavenly, hinting at the delightful bite to come.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour your batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Don’t rush this step; a fully baked cake ensures the perfect texture and avoids any sogginess. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan so that the frosting will spread smoothly later.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While your cake cools, whisk together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and orange extract or zest until it becomes smooth and creamy. This frosting is the signature of the Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake RECIPE, adding a rich tanginess that balances the sweetness of the cake and the tartness of the cranberries.

Step 5: Melt the White Chocolate

Melt 2 tablespoons of white chocolate chips in short bursts in the microwave, stirring between each burst to ensure a silky smooth finish. Transfer the melted chocolate into a small ziplock bag and snip off one corner to create a piping bag for easy drizzling later. This finishing touch adds not only flavor but a gorgeous aesthetic to your cake.

Step 6: Assemble Your Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake

Spread the luscious cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining soaked cranberries across the top generously for a pop of color and tartness. Then, drizzle the melted white chocolate over the berries in a whimsical zigzag pattern. Allow the chocolate to set for 30 minutes to an hour before slicing. Once set, cut into squares or wedges and get ready to fall in love with every bite!

How to Serve Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake RECIPE

Garnishes

Adding a few fresh cranberries or a sprinkle of finely grated orange zest on top can elevate your presentation and enhance the freshness of the cake. A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving also adds a snowy, festive touch. These simple garnishes make the cake look as inviting as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This coffee cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a lightly spiced chai tea, complementing its rich and tangy flavors. For a more indulgent brunch spread, serve it alongside creamy yogurt parfaits or fresh fruit salad to balance the indulgence with brightness and texture contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress guests? Try cutting your coffee cake into bite-sized squares and serve on a decorative platter with little forks for a sophisticated coffee hour treat. Alternatively, build a layered trifle glass with chunks of Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake RECIPE, cream cheese frosting, fresh cranberries, and a drizzle of melted white chocolate for a stunning dessert centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted and assembled, store your Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake RECIPE in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled preserves the cream cheese frosting’s texture and taste while maintaining the cake’s moistness.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover cake before frosting it by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and make the cream cheese frosting fresh for the best flavor and texture. This method is perfect for prepping ahead of holidays or special occasions.

Reheating

If you prefer to enjoy your coffee cake warm, allow chilled slices to come to room temperature, then heat individual servings gently in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. This quick warm-up softens the cake and wakes up the white chocolate’s creamy goodness without melting the frosting completely.

FAQs

Can I substitute fresh cranberries for dried in this recipe?

Fresh cranberries can be very tart and watery, which may affect the texture of the cake. If you want to use fresh, consider lightly cooking or macerating them with sugar first, but dried cranberries are best for maintaining the intended flavor and texture.

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

You can create a simple buttermilk substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to ½ cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This gives the acidity that tenderizes the crumb and complements the other flavors beautifully.

Why do the cranberries need to be soaked before adding?

Soaking dried cranberries plumps them up, making them juicier and preventing them from sucking moisture out of the cake batter. Draining and towel-drying afterward ensures they don’t add excess liquid but deliver a perfect burst of tartness in each bite.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend that includes xanthan gum or other binding agents. Keep in mind that texture might be slightly different, but the flavors will still shine through.

Is the white chocolate drizzle necessary?

While not absolutely required, the white chocolate drizzle adds a lovely touch of sweetness and elegance to the Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake RECIPE, enhancing both its appearance and flavor. You can omit it if preferred, but it’s definitely worth the extra step.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake RECIPE is one of those special treats that brightens any occasion with its perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cozying up for a weekend breakfast or entertaining friends during the holidays, this cake will quickly become a beloved staple. I invite you to dive into this recipe and experience the warm, inviting comfort it brings—because some desserts are simply worth savoring again and again.

Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake RECIPE

★★★★★

4.9 from 28 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 9 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Cranberry Bliss Coffee Cake is a delightful and festive treat perfect for holiday mornings or special occasions. It features a moist and flavorful cake studded with dried cranberries and white chocolate chips, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, extra cranberries, and a drizzle of melted white chocolate. The subtle hints of ginger and orange zest add a warm aromatic touch that complements the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and position the rack in the middle. Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking pan or a 10-inch round pan with nonstick spray or butter and flour it to prevent the cake from sticking.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 large eggs, 1 cup sugar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Add the 1 cup all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and ½ to 1 teaspoon ground ginger to the egg mixture. Whisk gently until just combined to avoid over-mixing.
Add Butter and Buttermilk: Slowly mix in the ½ cup melted butter and ½ cup buttermilk or sour cream, whisking after each addition until the batter is smooth and consistent.
Fold in White Chocolate Chips and Cranberries: Gently fold the ¾ cup white chocolate chips and the ¾ cup dried cranberries (soaked, drained, and dried) into the batter to evenly distribute them without deflating the mixture.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: In a clean bowl, whisk together the 8 oz softened cream cheese, ½ cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon orange extract or zest until smooth and creamy.
Melt White Chocolate: Melt the 2 tablespoons white chocolate chips in short bursts in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, stirring frequently until smooth with no lumps. Transfer the melted chocolate into a small ziplock bag and snip off a corner to create a piping bag.
Assemble the Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a spatula. Sprinkle the ⅔ cup of soaked, drained, and dried dried cranberries over the frosting.
Drizzle White Chocolate and Set: Drizzle the melted white chocolate in a zigzag pattern over the cranberries and frosting. Allow the white chocolate to set for 30 minutes to 1 hour at room temperature before slicing and serving.

Notes

Soaking dried cranberries helps them plump up and prevents them from drawing moisture from the cake.
Use fresh buttermilk or sour cream for best results to keep the cake moist and tender.
For a more intense citrus flavor, use freshly grated orange zest instead of orange extract.
Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth frosting without lumps.
You can substitute white chocolate chips with chopped white chocolate bars if preferred.
This cake is best served the same day but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days covered to maintain freshness.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American