Name: Irresistible Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake for Cozy Celebrations
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 65 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Fresh Cranberries (If using frozen, coat them in flour to prevent sinking.); 2 large Oranges (zest and juice) (Lemon juice can be swapped in for a tangy twist.); 1 cup Sugar (Reducing by 1/4 cup can create a less sweet option.); 1 cup Sour Cream (Plain yogurt or applesauce can be used as a substitute.); 2 cups Flour; 1 tablespoon Baking Powder; 3 large Eggs; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 cup Butter (Use room temperature for better mixing.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Mix with a touch of orange juice for a citrusy kick.); Milk or Water (Adjust to desired consistency.)

As I pulled open the oven door, a wave of citrusy bliss filled my kitchen, making it impossible not to smile. You can almost feel the holiday spirit radiating from this delightful Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake as it bakes to perfection. Combining the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sunny zest of oranges, this moist cake not only makes for a stunning centerpiece but is also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in. What’s even better? It’s versatile enough to transform into muffins for breakfast or snacks. Ready to indulge in a slice of comfort and joy? Let’s get baking!

Why is this Bundt Cake Special?

Irresistible flavor combination: The vibrant mix of tart cranberries and zesty oranges creates a taste that’s simply unforgettable.
Crowd-pleaser for all occasions: Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family dinners, this cake will impress everyone at the table.
Versatile recipe: Feel free to swap cranberries for blueberries or lemons for a delicious twist, or adapt it into muffins for breakfast!
Effortless preparation: With minimal fuss, even beginner bakers can master this delightful dessert—it’s an instant favorite.
Aromatic experience: As it bakes, the enticing scent will fill your kitchen with warmth and cheer, making it hard to resist a slice right away.

Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake Ingredients

• Get ready to create deliciousness!

For the Cake

Fresh Cranberries – Adds a burst of tartness and vibrant color; if using frozen, coat them in flour to prevent sinking.
Oranges (zest and juice) – Provides essential moisture and flavor; lemon juice can be swapped in for a tangy twist.
Sugar – Sweetens the cake; reducing by 1/4 cup can create a less sweet option.
Sour Cream – Keeps the cake moist; plain yogurt or applesauce can be used as a great substitute.
Flour – The backbone of the cake, creating that beautiful structure.
Baking Powder – A helping hand for leavening, ensuring a light, airy texture.
Eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds richness to the cake.
Salt – Enhances and balances all the flavors present.
Butter – Infuses richness and moisture; be sure to use room temperature for better mixing.
Vanilla Extract – Elevates the cake’s overall flavor profile.

Optional Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze; mix with a touch of orange juice for a citrusy kick.
Milk or Water – Adjusts the consistency to your liking.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment for your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake. While the oven heats, generously grease your bundt pan with butter or non-stick spray, ensuring every crevice is covered to prevent sticking. Set the pan aside as you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This process not only eliminates lumps but also evenly distributes the leavening agent. Once done, set the bowl aside, allowing the dry ingredients to retain their freshness while you move on to the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the room temperature butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, around 3-5 minutes. The texture will transform from grainy to smooth, indicating it’s ready for the next stage. This step ensures that your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake will be wonderfully tender.

Step 4: Add Eggs
Introduce the eggs, adding them one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture. After incorporating each egg, mix well for about 30 seconds, ensuring everything is evenly combined. This step enriches the cake’s flavor and structure, preparing it for the vibrant orange zest and juice that will follow.

Step 5: Incorporate Citrus and Sour Cream
Next, blend in the freshly squeezed orange juice, orange zest, and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This infusion of flavors is what makes your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake so delightful and moist. You’ll notice a fragrant aroma wafting through the kitchen, heightening your excitement to bake!

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the prepared dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter to remain slightly lumpy for a light, airy texture. This is a crucial step to avoid a dense cake!

Step 7: Fold in Cranberries
Gently fold in the fresh cranberries, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter without breaking apart. This will create delightful bursts of tartness in your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake. Once incorporated, pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, using a spatula to smooth the top.

Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the bundt pan in your preheated oven and bake for 55 to 70 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. As it bakes, enjoy the intoxicating aroma of citrus and cranberries filling your kitchen.

Step 9: Cool the Bundt Cake
After baking, remove the bundt cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. This cooling period lets the cake firm up slightly, making it easier to turn out. Once cooled, gently run a knife around the edge before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Optional Glazing
For a finishing touch, prepare a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a little orange juice until smooth. Once your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake has cooled thoroughly, drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it cascade down the sides for an irresistible finish.

Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake Variations

Feel free to make this delightful Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake your own with these fun variations!

Muffins: Transform the bundt cake into muffins by adjusting the baking time to 20-25 minutes. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, these little bites will be bursting with flavor!
Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture. The nuts will complement the soft crumbs beautifully, giving each bite an extra layer of richness.
Mixed Berries: Substitute cranberries with blueberries or raspberries for a fresh take on the classic bundt cake. Both will bring their unique sweetness and tartness into play, enhancing your cake’s flavor.
Citrus Variations: Swap the orange juice and zest for lemon or lime for a tangy twist. This substitution adds a refreshing brightness that pairs wonderfully with the cake’s rich texture.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of sour cream, and substitute butter with a dairy-free option like coconut oil. This makes the cake suitable for those with dairy sensitivities while keeping it luscious and moist.
Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Just be sure to check for a good binding agent to maintain that soft, fluffy texture we adore.
Spicy Boost: Add 1 teaspoon of ground ginger or cardamom for a warm spice note. The aromatic elements will lift the cake’s flavors, making each bite feel like a cozy hug.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent finish, melt dark chocolate and drizzle over the cooled cake instead of icing. The rich, sweet chocolate pairs delectably with the tartness of cranberries, creating an indulgent dessert.

For more sweet inspiration, consider trying my Lemon Velvet Cake or a scrumptious slice of Biscoff Cookie Cheesecake!

Make Ahead Options

These Cranberry Orange Bundt Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. To maintain its quality, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the batter from drying out. You may also freeze the baked cake for up to three months; just wrap it well in plastic and foil. When you’re ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and then finish with a simple glaze or enjoy it plain. This way, you’ll have a delightful dessert ready with minimal effort on the day of your gathering!

Helpful Tricks for Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature; this helps create a smooth and well-emulsified batter for your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture, so stop as soon as you see no dry flour.
Properly Grease the Pan: Generously grease the bundt pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking, ensuring a flawless release.
Check for Doneness: Bake the cake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remember, every oven is different, so check a little early to avoid overbaking.
Cooling is Key: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting it. This cooling time helps the cake set and makes it easier to remove without breaking.

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days at room temperature to keep it moist and delightful.

Fridge: If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it wrapped for up to a week. This will keep the flavor fresh but may slightly change the texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake tightly wrapped in plastic and foil for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bring to room temperature.

Reheating: To reheat slices, place them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, restoring its freshly-baked charm.

What to Serve with Zesty Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Delight in the wonderful experience of crafting a complete meal that enhances your delicious dessert!

Herbal Tea: This soothing beverage perfectly complements the citrusy notes of the cake, making it a comforting pairing. Imagine sipping tea while enjoying a slice of cake, enveloped in warmth.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy, sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy contrast, enhancing the cake’s tartness. It transforms each bite into a heavenly experience!
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and refreshing, a fruit salad of oranges, berries, and apples brings out the flavors of the bundt cake while adding texture and vibrancy to your plate.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Rich and creamy, this classic dessert pairs beautifully, balancing the tartness of the cranberries with its sweet creaminess. Picture a slice of warm cake devoured with melting ice cream!
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of dark chocolate sauce enriches the cake’s flavor profile, introducing a luscious depth that plays well with the zesty notes.
Citrus Spritzer: A refreshing drink made with sparkling water and citrus juice brings a lightness to your meal, complementing the bright flavors of the cake while keeping it festive.
Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy cheeses with dried fruits offers a savory contrast to the sweetness, providing an elegant touch and variety to the table.
Candied Citrus Peel: This sweet, chewy addition is a whimsical garnish that ties in beautifully with the cake’s flavors, making it an eye-catching delight on your dessert spread.

Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose fresh cranberries?
When selecting fresh cranberries, look for firm berries that are bright in color. Avoid any with dark spots or wrinkles, as these indicate overripeness. If you find a few that are slightly squished, don’t worry; just inspect closely to ensure the majority are in good shape!

What’s the best way to store leftover bundt cake?
To keep your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you opt for refrigeration, be mindful that it can last up to a week but may alter its texture slightly.

Can I freeze Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake? What’s the process?
Absolutely! To freeze your bundt cake, first allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before serving.

What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake turns out dense, it likely means you overmixed the batter. To prevent this in the future, mix the ingredients just until combined, leaving the batter slightly lumpy. Additionally, ensure that your baking powder is fresh, as old leavening agents can impact the cake’s fluffiness.

Are there any dietary concerns I should consider?
If you’re catering to dietary needs, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly! However, if your guests have allergies to dairy or eggs, consider using plant-based alternatives like almond milk for sour cream and flaxseed eggs as substitutes. Always double-check ingredient labels for hidden allergens, especially with processed items like powdered sugar.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the cake?
Yes! If you’d prefer a less sweet cake, simply reduce the amount of sugar by 1/4 cup. This adjustment will maintain the integrity of the recipe while still providing a delicious Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake that balances tartness from the cranberries with a subtle sweetness.