Preheat Oven & Prepare Pans: Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix the Cake Batter: Prepare the white cake mix as per the box instructions. Stir in the orange zest and cranberries into the batter.
Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Bake as per the box instructions or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Frosting: While the cakes are cooling, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, followed by the vanilla extract. Add milk as needed to achieve a spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and spread frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
Garnish: Garnish with additional orange zest and cranberries if desired.
Serve: Chill the cake for about an hour to set the frosting before serving.
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