10 Cranberry Orange Dessert Recipes for Thanksgiving

Cranberry Orange Cake

cranberry orange cake recipe

Cranberry Orange Cake is a delightful dessert that blends the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright citrus flavor of oranges, creating a moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion. This cake is not only visually appealing with its vibrant colors but also offers a unique combination of flavors that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Baking powder 2 teaspoons
Baking soda 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup, softened
Eggs 2 large
Fresh orange juice 1/2 cup
Zest of 1 orange From 1 orange
Fresh cranberries 1 cup (halved)
Powdered sugar For dusting (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, then add the eggs, orange juice, and zest.
  4. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined, then gently fold in the halved cranberries.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  7. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before serving if desired.

Cranberry Orange Cheesecake

cranberry orange cheesecake recipe

Cranberry Orange Cheesecake is a luscious and creamy dessert that marries the richness of classic cheesecake with the tartness of fresh cranberries and the bright, zesty flavor of oranges. This dessert not only boasts a stunning appearance with its swirls of cranberry but also delivers a deliciously balanced taste, making it a perfect choice for special occasions and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Cream cheese 16 oz (2 packages)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Sour cream 1/2 cup
Eggs 3 large
Fresh orange juice 1/4 cup
Zest of 1 orange From 1 orange
Fresh cranberries (pureed) 1 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour 2 tablespoons
Graham cracker crumbs 1 1/2 cups
Unsalted butter (melted) 1/3 cup
Powdered sugar For dusting (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare a 9-inch springform pan by greasing it lightly.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter, mixing until crumbly, then press this mixture into the bottom of the springform pan to create the crust.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then add the granulated sugar, sour cream, eggs, orange juice, zest, vanilla extract, and flour. Mix until well combined and smooth.
  4. Stir in the pureed cranberries gently to create swirls in the cheesecake batter.
  5. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the prepared crust in the springform pan and smooth the top.
  6. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles.
  7. Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake in the oven with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour, then let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating it for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  8. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar if desired and enjoy!

Cranberry Orange Muffins

cranberry orange muffins recipe

Cranberry Orange Muffins are delightful baked goods that combine the tartness of fresh cranberries with the invigorating zest of orange, creating a perfect treat for breakfast or a snack. These muffins are moist, fluffy, and packed with flavor, making them an ideal choice for chilly mornings or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Granulated sugar 3/4 cup
Baking powder 1 tablespoon
Baking soda 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Eggs 2 large
Fresh orange juice 1/2 cup
Zest of 1 orange From 1 orange
Unsalted butter (melted) 1/2 cup
Fresh cranberries 1 cup (chopped if large)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the eggs, orange juice, orange zest, and melted butter, mixing well.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; do not overmix.
  5. Gently fold in the chopped cranberries.
  6. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
  7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Cranberry Orange Bars

cranberry orange dessert bars

Cranberry Orange Bars are a delightful and invigorating dessert that perfectly balances the tartness of cranberries with the sweet citrus flavor of fresh oranges. These bars have a buttery crust and a luscious filling that make them a great option for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply as a dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Unsalted butter (softened) 1/2 cup
Eggs 3 large
Fresh orange juice 1/2 cup
Zest of 1 orange From 1 orange
Fresh cranberries (chopped if large) 1 cup
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Powdered sugar (for dusting) Optional for serving

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine flour and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add eggs, orange juice, and orange zest, mixing well.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Fold in the cranberries.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan.
  7. Once cooled, cut into bars and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy!

Cranberry Orange Tart

crisp tart with cranberries

Cranberry Orange Tart is an elegant and invigorating dessert that showcases a crisp, buttery crust filled with a smooth, tangy mixture of fresh cranberries and zesty oranges. This tart is perfect for holiday celebrations or any special occasion, offering a delightful balance of flavors that will impress your guests.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 1/4 cups
Granulated sugar 1/2 cup
Unsalted butter (chilled) 1/2 cup
Ice water 2-3 tablespoons
Fresh orange juice 1/2 cup
Zest of 1 orange From 1 orange
Fresh cranberries (whole) 2 cups
Granulated sugar (for filling) 1/2 cup
Cornstarch 2 tablespoons
Eggs 2 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Powdered sugar (for dusting) Optional for serving

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9-inch tart pan by greasing it lightly.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour and 1/2 cup sugar. Cut in chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until dough forms.
  3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and fit it into the prepared tart pan. Trim edges and poke holes in the bottom with a fork.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix cranberries with 1/2 cup sugar, cornstarch, orange juice, orange zest, eggs, and vanilla until well blended.
  5. Pour the filling into the prepared crust and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
  6. Allow it to cool before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired. Slice and serve. Enjoy!

Cranberry Orange Crumble

cranberry orange dessert crumble

Cranberry Orange Crumble is a warm, comforting dessert that combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright, citrus flavor of oranges, all topped with a crunchy, buttery crumble. This dish is perfect for any season and is especially delightful during the fall and winter months, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh cranberries (whole) 3 cups
Fresh orange juice 1/4 cup
Zest of 1 orange From 1 orange
Granulated sugar 3/4 cup
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Rolled oats 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Unsalted butter (melted) 1/2 cup
Cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, combine cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar; mix well and pour into the prepared baking dish.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, oats, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until crumbly.
  4. Spread the crumble mixture evenly over the cranberry and orange layer in the baking dish.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the crumble is golden brown and the cranberries are bubbling.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy!

Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding

cranberry orange bread pudding

Cranberry Orange Bread Pudding is a rich and comforting dessert that combines the flavors of tart cranberries and sweet oranges with soft, custardy bread. This dish is perfect for using up stale bread and is an excellent way to end a meal, especially during the chilly fall and winter months. Its aromatic appeal makes it a great choice for family gatherings or festive occasions.

Ingredients Quantity
Stale bread (cubed) 4 cups
Fresh cranberries (whole) 2 cups
Fresh orange juice 1 cup
Zest of 1 orange From 1 orange
Granulated sugar 1/2 cup
Milk 2 cups
Eggs 4 large
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Butter (for greasing) As needed

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, granulated sugar, orange juice, orange zest, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
  3. Add the cubed stale bread to the mixture and gently stir to coat the bread, allowing it to soak for about 15 minutes.
  4. Fold in the cranberries, then transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the bread pudding is set and lightly golden on top.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, possibly with a drizzle of cream or a scoop of ice cream!

Cranberry Orange Sorbet

cranberry orange sorbet recipe

Cranberry Orange Sorbet is a revitalizing and vibrant frozen dessert that balances the sweet and tart flavors of fresh cranberries and oranges. Perfect for cleansing the palate after a rich meal or for enjoying on a warm day, this sorbet is simple to create and can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh cranberries (whole) 2 cups
Fresh orange juice 1 cup
Granulated sugar 3/4 cup
Water 1 cup
Zest of 1 orange From 1 orange
Lemon juice 2 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the water and sugar over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved, then remove from heat and let cool.
  2. In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth.
  3. Pour the cooled sugar syrup into the cranberry mixture and blend until well combined.
  4. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any solids.
  5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve texture.
  6. Transfer the sorbet to an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving. Enjoy this revitalizing dessert chilled!

Cranberry Orange Galette

cranberry orange galette recipe

Cranberry Orange Galette is a rustic and delightful pastry that showcases the hearty flavors of tart cranberries and zesty oranges enveloped in a flaky crust. This free-form pie is easy to prepare and makes for a stunning centerpiece dessert during holidays or gatherings. Its combination of sweet and tangy filling, paired with a buttery crust, is sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 1 1/4 cups
Unsalted butter (cold) 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Ice water 3-4 tablespoons
Fresh cranberries (whole) 2 cups
Fresh orange juice 1/4 cup
Zest of 1 orange From 1 orange
Brown sugar 1/4 cup
Cornstarch 1 tablespoon
Egg (for wash) 1 (beaten)
Sugar (for sprinkling) 1 tablespoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until a dough forms. Shape into a disk and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle.
  3. In another bowl, mix cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, brown sugar, and cornstarch until combined.
  4. Spoon the cranberry mixture into the center of the rolled dough, leaving a border. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating as necessary.
  5. Brush the edges with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar.
  6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Cranberry Orange Cookies

cranberry orange cookie recipe

Cranberry Orange Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the tartness of cranberries with the zesty brightness of oranges. These soft and chewy cookies are perfect for the holiday season or any time you want a sweet and citrusy snack. The addition of orange zest infuses the dough with aromatic flavor, while the cranberries provide a pleasant burst of tartness in every bite.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 cups
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Baking powder 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Unsalted butter (softened) 3/4 cup
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Egg 1 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Orange zest Zest of 1 orange
Dried cranberries 1 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a separate mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg, vanilla extract, and orange zest, mixing until combined.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the dried cranberries.
  5. Drop tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!