Cranberry Orange Pound Cake

This vibrant Cranberry Orange Pound Cake is bursting with citrusy flavor and tangy cranberries, making it a delightful treat for any occasion!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup orange zest

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, blending just until combined.
5. Add cranberries and orange: Stir in the cranberries, orange juice, and orange zest until evenly incorporated.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional glaze: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, orange juice, and a little lemon juice for a sweet finish.

Additional Tips:

• Soak the dried cranberries in orange juice for 10 minutes before adding to the batter to make them extra plump.
• This cake tastes even better the next day, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

FAQs About Cranberry Orange Pound Cake:

1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
   Yes, fresh cranberries work well! Simply chop them before adding to the batter.
2. Can I freeze this cake?
   Absolutely. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Can I substitute the orange juice?
   Lemon juice or lime juice can provide a different citrusy twist.
4. Why is my pound cake dense?
   Overmixing the batter can cause the cake to become dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
5. Can I add nuts?
   Yes, chopped walnuts or pecans would add a nice crunch to the cake.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugar: 31g
• Fiber: 1g

This Cranberry Orange Pound Cake is a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for citrus lovers. Its combination of tangy cranberries and fresh orange zest makes it an irresistible treat for brunches, holiday gatherings, or as a snack with your favorite tea or coffee. Enjoy!