Name: Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 160 min
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 2.5 teaspoons baking powder; 1.25 teaspoons salt; 1.25 cups unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 1 cup packed brown sugar; 0.5 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons fresh orange zest; 5 large eggs (at room temperature); 0.5 cup full-fat sour cream (at room temperature); 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 0.5 cup milk (at room temperature); 0.25 cup fresh orange juice; 1.75 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (do not thaw if frozen); 0.67 cups brown sugar (packed); 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1.5 cups confectioners’ sugar; 3-4 tablespoons fresh orange juice

Introduction to Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

When you're seeking a show-stopping dessert that's as delightful to look at as it is to eat, a Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake is your answer. This cake merges the tartness of fresh cranberries with the bright, zesty flavor of orange, creating a mouthwatering combination that both your taste buds and guests will revel in. Whether it's for a holiday gathering or a cozy weekend brunch, this Bundt cake not only tastes divine but also makes a stunning centerpiece.

Why a Bundt Cake is the Perfect Homemade Dessert

Bundt cakes are beloved for their eye-catching shapes and deliciously moist textures. The unique design of the Bundt pan allows for even baking and enhances caramelization, giving your cake that beautiful golden exterior. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile; you can throw in seasonal fruits like cranberries and add spices like cinnamon without complicating things.

Who doesn't love an easy-to-make dessert that feels like gourmet? With a simple mix and pour method, you can whip up this cake in no time, leaving you with more moments to mingle with friends and family. For tips on perfecting your Bundt cake technique, check out Sally's Baking Addiction. The journey to a delicious, homemade dessert begins here!

Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

When it comes to crafting the perfect Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake, the magic lies in the ingredients. Here’s a breakdown to guide you through each component of this delightful treat.

Essential Ingredients for the Cake

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 and ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 and ¼ teaspoons salt
1 and ¼ cups unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons fresh orange zest
5 large eggs, at room temperature
½ cup full-fat sour cream, at room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
½ cup milk, at room temperature
¼ cup fresh orange juice
1 and ¾ cups fresh or frozen cranberries

These ingredients come together to create a moist and flavorful cake, where the tartness of cranberries beautifully balances the sweetness of the cake.

Filling Ingredients

⅔ cup packed brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

This simple filling adds a warm and spicy note, making each slice even more indulgent.

Orange Glaze Ingredients

1 and ½ cups confectioners’ sugar
3–4 tablespoons fresh orange juice

The glaze is the finishing touch, providing that last burst of citrus flavor to your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake. Don't skip it! For more tips on using fresh juice, check out this guide on using citrus in baking.

With these ingredients lined up, you're one step closer to impressing your friends and family with a stunning dessert!

Preparing Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Creating a delicious Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake can be an enjoyable time in the kitchen. Let’s break it down into easy steps so you can impress friends and family with your baking skills!

Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by collecting all your ingredients to ensure a smooth baking process. Here's what you'll need:

Cake: all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, fresh orange zest, eggs, sour cream, vanilla extract, milk, fresh orange juice, and cranberries.
Filling: brown sugar and ground cinnamon.
Orange Glaze: confectioners’ sugar and fresh orange juice.

Ensure that your butter, eggs, sour cream, and milk are at room temperature for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and generously grease your 10-inch Bundt pan to prevent sticking.

Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step helps evenly distribute the leavening agents and ensures your cake rises beautifully. Set this bowl aside while you tackle the wet ingredients.

Cream the Butter and Sugars

Using a stand mixer or a hand mixer, cream together the softened unsalted butter with both sugars and orange zest. This process should take about 3 minutes and will result in a light, fluffy mixture, which is essential for a moist cake. If you need a quick refresher on how to cream butter and sugar, check out this helpful tutorial.

Mix in the Wet Ingredients

Next up, add in your eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat at medium speed until everything is combined. Don’t worry if it looks a bit curdled; this is normal! The addition of dry ingredients will help bring it all together.

Combine Batter and Fold in Cranberries

Pour the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, followed by the milk and fresh orange juice. Mix on medium speed until just combined. The batter should be thick yet silky. Then gently fold in the cranberries—these little gems bring a burst of tartness that complements the orange beautifully.

Layer and Bake the Cake

To assemble, pour half of the batter into your prepared Bundt pan. For the filling, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together and sprinkle it evenly over the batter. Be cautious to keep it centered, as it can affect how well the cake comes out of the pan. Then, cover with the remaining batter. Bake the Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake for 55-70 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Once baked, allow it to cool for an hour in the pan before moving it to a wire rack to cool completely.

This cake is an irresistible blend of flavors that’s perfect for any occasion!

Variations on Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Add in Nuts or Other Fruits

Enhance your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake by adding in your favorite nuts or fruits. Consider tossing in some chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. Alternatively, swap cranberries for other fruits like tart cherries or blueberries to create a seasonal twist. If you feel adventurous, a mix of these will delight your taste buds.

Try Different Spice Combinations

Experimenting with spices can elevate your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake to new heights. While cinnamon is a classic, adding nutmeg, ginger, or even some allspice can create a warm, aromatic flavor profile. Consider a pinch of cardamom for a unique twist. The options are limitless, and each blend brings something special to the table.

These variations are not just fun; they also allow you to customize your cake for any occasion! For more tips on flavor pairings, check out sources like The Flavor Bible or Taste of Home.

Baking Notes for Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Bundt Shape

To ensure your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake releases smoothly from the pan, generously grease it with butter or baking spray and dust it with flour. This creates a non-stick surface for the cake, which is essential given its intricate design. Also, let the cake cool in the pan for about an hour before inverting it onto a wire rack—this helps prevent cracking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Be mindful not to overmix the batter after adding the dry ingredients, as this can lead to a dense cake. Also, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar filling carefully in the center to avoid edges that stick to the pan. Lastly, remember to check for doneness with a toothpick; a few moist crumbs are fine, but the cake should not be wet. For more tips on avoiding baking mishaps, check out this resource.

Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Perfect Pairings with Coffee or Tea

The Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake shines best alongside your favorite cup of coffee or soothing tea. The citrus notes beautifully complement a light, floral tea, like chamomile or jasmine. For coffee lovers, a rich medium roast will enhance the cake’s sweet, tart flavors, creating the perfect afternoon treat. Consider serving it warm for a cozy feel, drizzled with extra orange glaze for that delightful finishing touch.

Creative Ways to Present the Cake

Presentation elevates any dessert experience. Turn your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake into a centerpiece by dusting it with powdered sugar and garnishing with fresh cranberries and orange slices. Serving individual slices on colorful plates adds a pop of vibrancy to your table. For added flair, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat or a dollop of whipped cream for a light touch. Think about setting out delicious toppings, such as candied orange peel, for guests to personalize their servings.

For more creative serving ideas, check out this guide to enhance your cake presentation skills!

Time Details for Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Preparation Time
Get ready to bake with about 20 minutes of prep time. This allows you to gather your ingredients, grease your pan, and mix the batter just right.

Baking Time
The Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake needs about 55 to 70 minutes in the oven. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.

Total Time
From start to finish, expect around 1 hour and 40 minutes to enjoy your delicious cake, including the cooling time before serving.

For additional tips on bundt cake success, check out this guide. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information for Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Calories

A slice of this delightful Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake packs around 350 calories, making it a satisfying treat for any occasion.

Carbohydrates

With approximately 49 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this cake is ideal for those seeking a boost of energy alongside its delicious flavors.

Sugars

You can expect about 30 grams of sugar in each slice. While it’s sweet, the tartness of the cranberries balances the flavor beautifully!

For a deeper dive into the health benefits of cranberries, check out Healthline's article on cranberries. Enjoy your baking!

FAQs about Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Can I use frozen cranberries?
Absolutely! In fact, using frozen cranberries makes this Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake super convenient. Just make sure not to thaw them before adding them to the batter; this helps retain their structure and tart flavor, which beautifully contrasts with the sweetness of the cake.

How should I store the leftover cake?
To keep your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake fresh, store it tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just be sure to use an airtight container to prevent it from drying out—nobody wants a crumbly cake!

What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you’re out of sour cream, don’t worry! You can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt for a similar texture and tang. Alternatively, buttermilk or cottage cheese blended until smooth can also do the trick. These options will keep your cake moist and delicious!

For more information on baking with substitutions, you might find this guide helpful.

Conclusion on Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

In summary, the Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful blend of flavors that captures the essence of celebration. Perfect for festive gatherings, this cake combines the tartness of cranberries with the bright notes of orange. Enjoy this sweet treat with loved ones, and don’t forget to share your experience!