Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

This Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright, zesty flavor of orange. The soft, moist cake is beautifully baked in a bundt pan, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering. Ideal for the holiday season or any special occasion, this cake delivers both flavor and elegance in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of cranberries and orange creates a refreshing and festive flavor.
• It’s a show-stopping dessert that looks as good as it tastes.
• Moist, tender crumb with bursts of juicy cranberries throughout.
• Easy to make with simple ingredients.
• Perfect for holidays, brunches, or as a homemade gift.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Fresh orange zest
• Fresh orange juice
• Vanilla extract
• Sour cream or plain yogurt
• Fresh or frozen cranberries
• Powdered sugar (for the glaze, optional)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Mix in orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream.
7. Gently fold in the cranberries.
8. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan.
9. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Optionally, drizzle with a simple orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 slices
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Baking time: 50–60 minutes
• Cooling time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Citrus twist: Add a bit of lemon zest for an extra citrusy flavor.
• Nutty addition: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle with melted white chocolate for a sweeter touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

How do I prevent the cranberries from sinking to the bottom?

Toss the cranberries in a little flour before adding them to the batter. This helps keep them evenly distributed.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, but soak them in hot water for 10 minutes to rehydrate before using.

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

What if I don’t have a bundt pan?

You can use a regular cake pan, but adjust the baking time and check for doneness earlier.

Can I substitute yogurt for sour cream?

Yes, plain yogurt works well as a substitute for sour cream.

How do I know when the cake is done?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.

Should I glaze the cake while it’s still warm?

Let the cake cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.

Can I add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg?

Yes, adding warm spices can complement the orange and cranberry flavors.

Why did my cake stick to the pan?

Ensure your bundt pan is well-greased and floured before adding the batter.

How long should the cake cool before removing it from the pan?

Let it cool for at least 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake is a festive and flavorful dessert that’s sure to impress at any gathering. With its tender crumb, zesty citrus notes, and bursts of cranberry tartness, it’s a perfect centerpiece for holiday meals or any special occasion. Enjoy every delicious slice!

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