Cranberry Layer Cake Recipe

Name: Cranberry Layer Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 package white cake mix (regular size); 1-1/3 cups water; 3 large eggs, room temperature; 1/3 cup canola oil; 1 tablespoon grated orange zest; 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed and coarsely chopped; 1 cup finely chopped walnuts; 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup butter, softened; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3-1/2 cups confectioners' sugar; 1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest; 1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts

Servings: persons

1 package white cake mix (regular size)
1-1/3 cups water
3 large eggs, room temperature
1/3 cup canola oil
1 tablespoon grated orange zest
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed and coarsely chopped
1 cup finely chopped walnuts
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3-1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
1/2 teaspoon grated orange zest
1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts

1
Preheat oven to 350u00b0. Line bottoms of two greased 9-in. round baking pans with parchment; grease paper. In a large bowl, combine the first 5 ingredients; beat on low speed 30 seconds. Beat on medium 2 minutes. Stir in cranberries and walnuts. Transfer batter to prepared pans.
2
Bake 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans 10 minutes before removing to wire racks; remove paper. Cool completely.
3
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, butter and vanilla until blended. Gradually beat in confectioners' sugar and orange zest until smooth. Spread frosting between layers and over top and sides of cake. Sprinkle with walnuts. Refrigerate leftovers.
4
Wrap cooled cake layers, then cover securely in foil; freeze. To use, thaw cakes before unwrapping. Assemble as directed.

1194

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Preheat the oven fully and bake on the middle rack for the most even results.
Check for doneness a few minutes early — a toothpick in the center should come out with just a few moist crumbs.
Let it cool before slicing so it sets properly and holds its shape.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Use a neutral oil or a plant-based spread in place of butter for a dairy-free version.
Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.
Leave out the nuts to make it nut-free, or swap in seeds for a similar crunch.
Coconut cream is a reliable plant-based alternative to dairy cream.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 13 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 1 package white cake mix (regular size), 1-1/3 cups water, 3 large eggs, room temperature, 1/3 cup canola oil, and more.

Yes, Cranberry Layer Cake falls under the Baking & Desserts category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3–5 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months — no need to refrigerate or reheat.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Cranberry Layer Cake

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions