Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a cake that bursts with bright, festive flavors and a moist, tender crumb, this Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake Recipe is an absolute showstopper. Imagine the tangy zing of fresh cranberries harmonizing perfectly with the sweet, citrusy aroma of oranges, all wrapped up in a beautifully golden bundt cake. It’s a dessert that feels like a warm hug during chilly days and a delightful centerpiece whether it’s a holiday celebration or a cozy weekend treat. You’re going to love every bite of this jewel-toned cake that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake Recipe relies on straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a vital role. From the butter’s richness to the cranberries’ tart pop, every item is essential for creating this cake’s unforgettable texture and flavor.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure for the cake’s delicate crumb.
• 2 tsp baking powder: Ensures the cake rises beautifully and stays fluffy.
• 1/2 tsp baking soda: Helps balance acidity and aids in leavening.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavors and balances sweetness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds moistness and a tender crumb with rich flavor.
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps with golden browning.
• 4 large eggs: Bind ingredients and contribute to the cake’s airy texture.
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice: Brings refreshing citrus brightness and moisture.
• Zest of 2 oranges: Intensifies orange flavor with aromatic oils.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
• 1 cup sour cream: Keeps the cake moist and tender with a slight tang.
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries: Bursts of tartness that contrast beautifully with the sweet batter.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates a sweet, smooth glaze that ties the flavors together.
• 2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice (for glaze): Adds a zesty finishing touch to the glaze.
• Zest of 1 orange (optional, for garnish): Adds a pretty, fragrant topping.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s key to grease and flour the bundt pan thoroughly so the cake releases easily after baking — this step sets you up for a perfect shape every time.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and seasoning, which helps the cake rise uniformly and taste balanced.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This process creates a tender texture by incorporating air, which is essential for that moist, airy crumb we all adore.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

One by one, add the eggs to the creamed mixture, beating well after each. Then stir in the fresh orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract — this trio infuses the batter with vibrant, fragrant citrus notes and warming vanilla undertones.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter and risking a dense cake.

Step 6: Fold in the Cranberries

Gently fold in the fresh or frozen cranberries — do not thaw if frozen, as this helps keep them from bleeding too much color into the batter and maintains their pleasantly tart burst inside the cake.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should have a lovely golden crust with a tender, moist interior.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Let the bundt cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack. Cooling completely helps it set so your glaze won’t melt away and your slices hold their beautiful shape.

Step 9: Glaze and Garnish

Create the simple orange glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and fresh orange juice until smooth. Drizzle this over the cooled cake, then sprinkle with extra orange zest if you like a little extra sparkle and fragrance.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios or a few fresh cranberries around the plate can elevate the presentation instantly. A light dusting of powdered sugar gives a snowy charm that’s especially festive during winter months.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to balance the tart cranberries and tangy orange glaze. For a breakfast twist, serve alongside a cup of strong coffee or spiced chai.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices on pretty dessert plates with a small sprig of fresh rosemary or mint for color contrast and an herbal hint. You could even cut the cake into bite-sized pieces and arrange on a festive holiday platter for easy snacking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once the cake is glazed and completely cooled, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps it moist and fresh without drying out those gorgeous cranberries.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake without the glaze by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before glazing and serving for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy a warm slice, pop an individual piece in the microwave for about 15 seconds or warm gently in a low oven for 5-7 minutes. This revives the softness and enhances the citrus aroma wonderfully.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries in the Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake Recipe?

Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly. Just be sure not to thaw them before folding into the batter to prevent the color from bleeding and the texture from becoming soggy.

What if I don’t have a bundt pan? Can I use a regular cake pan?

Absolutely! You can use a standard round or loaf pan, though baking time might vary slightly. Check doneness with a toothpick and adjust baking time as needed.

Is there a dairy-free way to make this cake?

To make it dairy-free, substitute butter with a good quality nondairy margarine and use a dairy-free yogurt or sour cream alternative. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Can this cake be made ahead of time?

Definitely! This cake actually tastes better after resting for a day, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep it covered at room temperature or refrigerated before glazing.

How do I prevent cranberries from sinking to the bottom?

Coating cranberries lightly in flour before folding them into the batter helps keep them suspended evenly throughout the cake instead of sinking to the bottom.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake Recipe that combines bright, seasonal ingredients into a classic but show-stopping dessert. It’s a perfect balance of sweet and tart, rich and fresh — a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a treat to brighten your day. Trust me, once you make this cake, it will quickly become one of your go-to favorites for any occasion. So, don’t wait — gather your ingredients and bake this lovely cake to share the joy of citrus and cranberry bliss!

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