Ingredients
The Spiced & Fruity Fold-Ins:
1 \frac{1}{2} cups dried cranberries (or fresh/frozen, roughly chopped)
\frac{1}{2} cup golden raisins
1 tbsp orange zest (from 1 large orange)
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for a nutty crunch)
1 tbsp all-purpose flour (to toss with the fruit so it doesn’t sink!)
The Rich Cake Batter:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
\frac{1}{2} tsp baking soda
\frac{1}{2} tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
\frac{1}{2} cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
\frac{1}{2} cup buttermilk (or plain Greek yogurt for extra moisture)
\frac{1}{4} cup fresh orange juice
The Thick Sweet Glaze:
1 \frac{1}{2} cups powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice (add slowly to reach the perfect drizzling thickness)
\frac{1}{2} tsp vanilla extract
Extra cranberries and orange zest (for topping)
🥣 Directions
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8-inch round cake pan (with deep sides) or a springform pan. Line the bottom with a round of parchment paper and grease the paper lightly to ensure a flawless release.
Step 2: Prep the Fruit
In a small bowl, toss the dried cranberries, golden raisins, and orange zest with 1 tablespoon of flour until they are evenly coated.
Step 3: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 4: Cream and Build the Batter
In a large bowl (or stand mixer), beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed for 3 to 4 minutes until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Alternate and Mix
Turn the mixer to low speed. Add the dry flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk and orange juice, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix just until the flour streaks disappear. Gently fold in the floured fruit and nuts with a spatula.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Spread the thick batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then run a knife around the edges and invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Glaze and Serve
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and orange juice until you have a thick, drip-friendly glaze.
Pour the glaze generously over the cooled cake, letting it pool beautifully on top and cascade slowly down the sides. Scatter a few extra cranberries on top for a festive pop, slice, and enjoy a taste of Tennessee Christmas!