If you’re looking for a show-stopping treat that marries tart cranberries with a tender crumb and a delightful cinnamon-spiced crumble, the Cranberry Swirl Coffee Cake Recipe is exactly what you need in your baking repertoire. This cake dazzles with layers of luscious cranberry swirl tucked inside moist, buttery cake, crowned with a sweet and crunchy topping that makes every bite a burst of flavor and texture. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a dessert to impress your guests, this recipe combines familiar ingredients into something truly special and heartwarming.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows eleven white bowls and dishes arranged neatly on a white marbled surface, each holding a different ingredient. At the top center is a small white plate with a square of butter. Below it is a large bowl filled with white flour, flanked on the left by two small bowls containing salt and another white powder, and on the right by a bowl of brown sugar and a small bowl with a mix of brown spices. A bowl of fresh red cranberries is on the lower left, with a single brown egg and an orange placed nearby. A small bowl with dark vanilla extract sits in the middle, and at the bottom right is a bowl with a white creamy ingredient and another bowl with thick white cream above it. The colors are natural and vibrant, with reds, oranges, browns, and whites clearly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting your ingredients right is the first joyful step towards creating this Cranberry Swirl Coffee Cake Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role in balancing flavors and textures, from the zingy cranberries and warm spices to the soft, rich cake base and crumbly topping.

Cranberries (2 cups fresh or frozen): The star of the show, providing tartness and vibrant color that contrast beautifully with the sweet cake.
Orange zest (1 tablespoon): Adds a bright citrus aroma that lifts the cranberry swirl and enhances the overall freshness.
Orange juice (⅓ cup): Helps cook down the cranberries into a luscious jammy swirl with natural sweetness.
Granulated sugar (1 cup plus 1 cup): Sweetens both the cranberry mixture and the cake, giving a perfect balance to the tart cranberries.
Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons total): Infuses the whole cake with warm, cozy spice that’s perfect for any season.
Ground cloves (¾ teaspoon total): Adds a subtle, aromatic depth to the cranberry filling and crumble that elevates every bite.
All-purpose flour (3 cups total): Forms the base structure of both cake and crumble, ensuring a tender yet sturdy texture.
Brown sugar (½ cup, packed): Brings a rich, molasses note to the crumble topping, enhancing its crunch and flavor.
Salt (¾ teaspoon total): Essential for balancing sweetness and sharpening flavors throughout the cake.
Unsalted butter (1 stick melted + 1 stick softened): Adds luscious richness to the crumble and cake, making them irresistible.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the cake rise to a light, fluffy texture.
Baking soda (¼ teaspoon): Works alongside baking powder to create the perfect crumb.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses the cake batter with a warm, inviting aroma that complements the berries.
Large egg (1, room temperature): Binds ingredients together while contributing moisture and richness.
Sour cream (⅔ cup, room temperature): Keeps the cake tender, moist, and adds a slight tang that makes the crumb complex and satisfying.
Powdered sugar (2-3 tablespoons, optional): For a delicate dusting that adds a pretty finish and a hint of sweetness.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Cranberry Swirl Coffee Cake Recipe

Step 1: Make the Cranberry Swirl

The first magical step is creating the cranberry swirl that gives this coffee cake its signature burst of flavor and color. Combine the cranberries, orange zest, orange juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and cloves in a pot over medium-high heat. Stir often as the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into a jammy consistency, about 15 to 25 minutes. Let this cool completely to room temperature—it’s even better if made up to a week ahead and refrigerated, allowing the flavors to deepen.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Ultimately, every baking success starts with prepping your workspace. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper to ensure your cake lifts out perfectly without sticking.

Step 3: Whip Up the Crumble Topping

The crumble topping adds irresistible texture and sweetness. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and melted butter. Mix until everything is crumbly with no lumps of dry flour. Set this aside—it will go on the cake last for that glorious crunchy crown.

Step 4: Make the Cake Batter

Next, mix the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt—in one bowl. In another, beat the softened butter with sugar for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add vanilla, egg, and sour cream; beat to combine. Then, gently fold in your dry ingredients in two batches, mixing just until combined to keep the cake tender and moist.

Step 5: Build Your Layers

Spread half of the cake batter evenly in your prepared pan using an offset spatula. Dollop one cup of the cooled cranberry swirl on top, then gently spread it out. Follow this with the remaining batter, smoothing it into an even layer. Tap the pan lightly to settle the batter, then sprinkle the crumble topping over the surface evenly.

Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake on the center rack for 50 to 60 minutes or until the top is golden brown, the center is set, and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. The aroma alone will have you eager to cut a slice.

Step 7: Cool and Finish

Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes on a wire rack, then carefully release the springform ring and cool for another hour. Before serving, remove the base and parchment, then dust with powdered sugar if you like to add a delicate touch of sweetness and prettiness.

How to Serve Cranberry Swirl Coffee Cake Recipe

A round crumb cake sits on a black wire cooling rack with a white marbled surface below. The cake has a thick, golden brown crumb topping that looks crunchy and uneven, covering the entire top. The crumbs vary in size, giving the surface a rough texture. The cake is in a round metal pan with straight sides, showing no visible layers inside. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar to gently sweeten and brighten the presentation. Fresh cranberries or a sprig of rosemary on the side can add a festive look and an extra pop of natural color that complements the cake perfectly.

Side Dishes

This coffee cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, naturally, but also consider serving alongside creamy yogurt or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the tartness with richness.

Creamy Ways to Present

Turn your Cranberry Swirl Coffee Cake Recipe into an elegant dessert by serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. These additions make it feel indulgent for special occasions or a cozy night in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying this delightful coffee cake, wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it a great option to savor slowly.

Freezing

You can freeze the Cranberry Swirl Coffee Cake Recipe for up to 2 months by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to keep the flavors intact.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or pop them in a low oven (300°F) for 10-15 minutes. This restores the tender texture and amplifies the lovely aroma.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for the cranberry swirl?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work perfectly in this recipe and are a convenient year-round option. Just be sure to thaw slightly before cooking for the best texture in your swirl.

Is sour cream necessary in the cake batter?

Sour cream adds moisture and a subtle tang that makes the cake extra tender and flavorful. If you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute with Greek yogurt, but the texture and flavor might differ slightly.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can adapt the recipe by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Just be mindful that the texture may vary a bit but the flavors remain just as wonderful.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

The cake is done when the top is golden brown, the center is set with no wobble, and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I prepare the cranberry swirl mixture ahead of time?

Yes! The cranberry swirl can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge. This actually enhances the flavor, allowing it to deepen and meld beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting and joyful about making the Cranberry Swirl Coffee Cake Recipe, whether it’s for a casual morning or a special celebration. This cake brings together bright, fresh flavors with warm spices and a satisfying texture that will quickly become a favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and see why it’s become a beloved treat worth sharing again and again!