Zesty Orange Cranberry Bundt

Indulge in the exquisite charm of our Orange Cranberry Bundt Cake, a perfect blend of rich flavors and elegant presentation. This truly special dessert features a soft, tender, and beautifully moist crumb, infused with the bright, fragrant essence of orange zest and juice. It’s perfectly complemented by a luscious orange glaze that cascades down its intricate design and a crown of sparkling, sugared cranberries. This bundt cake is delightfully buttery and dense without feeling heavy, offering a comforting yet sophisticated taste experience that’s ideal for any occasion.

Bundt cakes, with their distinctive fluted shapes and elaborate patterns, are surprisingly easy to make, yet they consistently deliver an impressive visual impact. They stand out as a fantastic alternative to more labor-intensive and complicated layer cakes, as they require no fiddly buttercream or intricate frosting techniques. A simple, vibrant glaze is all it takes to transform this straightforward bake into an absolute showstopper, making it accessible even for novice bakers who want to create something truly spectacular.

This easy-to-follow recipe ensures a delicious outcome that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your guests. Its stunning appearance and delightful flavor profile make it an ideal and eye-catching centrepiece for your Christmas table, Thanksgiving feast, or any other holiday celebration. Imagine the vibrant colors of orange and cranberry brightening your festive spread, inviting everyone to enjoy a slice of pure joy.

If you’ve previously enjoyed our popular orange cranberry loaf recipe, then you are absolutely going to adore this exquisite Orange Cranberry Bundt Cake. While the loaf offers a rustic charm, this bundt cake boasts a slightly lighter texture, yet it delivers an equally intense and captivating flavor experience. It masterfully combines the sweet, juicy, and aromatic notes of fresh oranges with the vibrant, jammy, and distinctly sharp tang of cranberries. This classic flavor pairing creates a harmonious balance that is both refreshing and comforting, making every bite a celebration of seasonal tastes.

Essential Ingredients for Your Orange Cranberry Bundt Cake

Crafting this delightful Orange Cranberry Bundt Cake requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that work in harmony to create its signature moist crumb and bright flavor. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

• All-Purpose Flour: For the best results, plain, all-purpose flour is recommended for this cake recipe. It provides the perfect balance of structure and tenderness, ensuring your bundt cake holds its beautiful shape while remaining delightfully soft. Sifting your flour can also help achieve an even finer crumb.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These two leavening agents are crucial for achieving the perfect rise and airy texture of your bundt cake. Baking powder acts quickly upon contact with liquid, while baking soda reacts with acidic ingredients like buttermilk and orange juice, providing a double boost of lift and tenderness. Using both ensures a consistently light yet sturdy cake.
• Cinnamon: A touch of ground cinnamon adds a warm, inviting aroma and a subtle spice note that beautifully complements the citrus and cranberry flavors. For an extra layer of warmth, you could also consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice.
• Sugars: We use white caster sugar (superfine sugar) in the cake batter, which dissolves easily and contributes to a fine, even crumb. For the vibrant citrus glaze, icing sugar (powdered sugar) is essential for its smooth, pourable consistency. While caster sugar is preferred, you can substitute it with soft light brown sugar for a deeper molasses note, or regular granulated sugar if that’s what you have on hand.
• Oranges: Both fresh orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice are star ingredients in both the cake batter and the glaze. The zest provides an intense burst of aromatic orange oil, while the juice adds moisture and a tangy sweetness. Always opt for fresh oranges if possible, as their flavor is far superior to bottled juice. When zesting, be sure to only grate the bright orange part, avoiding the bitter white pith.
• Unsalted Butter: Good quality softened butter is key to creating that rich, moist, and wonderfully buttery texture that defines a classic bundt cake. Ensure your butter is at room temperature to cream properly with the sugar, incorporating air for a lighter crumb.
• Large Eggs: Eggs provide essential moisture, richness, and structure to our bundt cake, binding the ingredients together and helping the cake rise. Using large eggs at room temperature helps them emulsify more effectively with the butter and sugar, resulting in a smoother batter.
• Buttermilk: This acidic ingredient is a secret weapon for tenderness and moistness in baking. Buttermilk reacts with the baking soda, balances the cake’s sweetness, and contributes to a rich, tangy flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles. Sour cream or Greek yogurt can also be used as alternatives for a similar effect.
• Cranberries: Whether fresh or frozen, cranberries are vital for that characteristic tart burst and vibrant color. If using frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them; simply toss them with a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter to prevent them from sinking. While dried cranberries can be used as a substitute, it’s highly recommended to soak them in orange juice, water, or even a splash of your favorite liqueur for at least 15 minutes. This allows them to plump up and rehydrate, preventing them from drying out the cake and ensuring a juicier bite.

For your convenience, a full list of ingredients with precise measurements and detailed instructions can be found in the comprehensive recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Your Perfect Orange Cranberry Bundt Cake

Baking this stunning Orange Cranberry Bundt Cake is a rewarding process, and following these steps will ensure a beautifully baked and delicious result. Precision in preparation and execution is key for any bundt cake, given its intricate design.

Begin by properly preparing your bundt pan. This is perhaps the most crucial step for a successful bundt cake release. Generously grease every nook and cranny of the pan with softened butter or a baking spray that contains flour. Once greased, dust the entire interior with flour, tilting and tapping the pan to ensure an even coating. Tap out any excess flour to prevent a white, pasty residue on your finished cake.

If you plan to adorn your cake with the dazzling sugared cranberries, it’s best to prepare these first. They require about an hour to dry and crystalize. For sugared cranberries, always use fresh cranberries; frozen ones can work in a pinch, but dried cranberries will not achieve the desired candied effect.

In a large mixing bowl, combine all your dry ingredients: the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, a pinch of salt, and fragrant cinnamon. Whisk these together thoroughly until they are well combined. This ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter, leading to a consistent rise and flavor. Set this mixture aside.

In a separate large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter, caster sugar, and fresh orange zest until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This creaming process incorporates air, which contributes to the cake’s tender texture.

Gradually beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully incorporated. Then, gently add the buttermilk and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until just combined. Don’t be alarmed if the mixture appears slightly curdled at this stage; it will come together beautifully once the dry ingredients are added.

Carefully tip the whisked dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed or by hand with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten too much, resulting in a tough cake.

Before adding the cranberries, gently toss them with one tablespoon of the reserved flour. This simple step helps prevent the fruit from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking. Then, carefully fold the flour-coated cranberries into the batter using a spatula. Once combined, transfer the batter evenly into your meticulously prepared bundt pan.

Helpful Hint: When filling your bundt pan with batter, remember not to overfill it. Aim for no more than three-quarters full to prevent the cake from overflowing during baking and maintain its perfect shape.

Bake your Orange Cranberry Bundt Cake for approximately 45-50 minutes in a preheated oven, or until a wooden toothpick or skewer inserted into the thickest part of the cake comes out clean, with no wet batter clinging to it. The cake should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the bundt pan for about 15 minutes. This cooling period is crucial as it allows the cake to firm up slightly, making it easier to invert and release without breaking. After 15 minutes, carefully invert the cake onto a wire cooling rack and allow it to cool completely before applying the vibrant orange glaze and decorating with your prepared sugared cranberries. Patience during this stage ensures a flawless finish.

Creative Variations for Your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

While our classic Orange Cranberry Bundt Cake is a showstopper on its own, it also serves as a versatile canvas for delightful variations. Don’t hesitate to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your taste or the occasion:

• Mini Bundt Cakes: Transform this recipe into charming individual mini bundt cakes, perfect for party favors, dessert platters, or personalized servings. Depending on the size of your mini bundtette pan or individual mini-bundt baking tins, you should yield approximately 10-12 adorable cakes. Remember to significantly adjust baking times, as smaller cakes will cook much faster, typically ranging from 20-30 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overbaking.
• Add Some Nuts: For an extra layer of texture, flavor, and a beautiful pop of color, incorporate a handful of chopped nuts. Pistachios, with their vibrant green hue, complement the orange and cranberry wonderfully, much like in our orange and cranberry Chelsea buns recipe. You could also try chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds for a different nutty note. Fold a handful directly into the cake batter along with the cranberries, and then sprinkle some more over the top of the cake or glaze for added crunch and visual appeal.
• Chocolate Indulgence: The classic combination of cranberry and orange is surprisingly harmonious with chocolate. White chocolate is an especially good match, offering a sweet contrast to the tart cranberries. Consider using melted white chocolate for your glaze instead of the traditional orange glaze for a decadent twist. Alternatively, fold a generous handful of white chocolate chips or even chopped dark chocolate into the cake batter along with the cranberries for pockets of melty goodness throughout the cake.
• Spice It Up: Enhance the warm, festive flavors by increasing the amount of cinnamon or adding other warming spices like a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or ground ginger to the dry ingredients. These spices deepen the cake’s aroma and add another dimension to its taste profile.
• Lemon or Lime Zest: For an even brighter citrus note, you could substitute part of the orange zest with lemon or lime zest. This would introduce a more piquant flavor, adding another layer of complexity.
• Other Berries: While cranberries are traditional, feel free to experiment with other berries. Blueberries or raspberries could make a delicious alternative, or even a mix of berries for a summer twist. Adjust the sweetness slightly if using sweeter fruits.
• Cream Cheese Glaze: Instead of a simple powdered sugar glaze, a luscious cream cheese glaze would add a rich, tangy creaminess that pairs beautifully with the orange and cranberry flavors.
• If you’re a devoted fan of cranberry desserts and wish to explore beyond bundt cakes, why not try this delightful Cranberry Cheesecake? It’s another fantastic option that promises to be a perfect showstopper for any festive gathering or cozy get-together!

Essential Equipment for Bundt Cake Baking

Having the right tools can make all the difference in achieving a perfectly baked and beautifully presented Orange Cranberry Bundt Cake. Here’s a breakdown of the key equipment you’ll need:

• Handheld Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer: A reliable mixer fitted with a paddle or whisk attachment is indispensable for creaming butter and sugar, as well as thoroughly combining your wet ingredients. While a handheld mixer works perfectly, a stand mixer offers the convenience of hands-free operation, allowing you to prepare other components of the cake simultaneously.
• Bundt Pan: The star of this recipe is, of course, the bundt pan itself. We recommend using a high-quality non-stick bundt tin for optimal results. The specific pan used here is this Nordic Ware Heritage Bundt Pan, which has a capacity of 2.4 liters (approximately 10 cups). If your baking pan is smaller or larger, you will need to carefully scale down or increase the recipe ingredients accordingly and adjust the baking times. Using a pan that’s too small for the batter can result in overflow, while one that’s too large might lead to a flatter cake. Different designs can also affect baking time and ease of release, so choose a pan with a good non-stick coating and intricate details that aren’t too sharp.
• Large Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least two large mixing bowls – one for dry ingredients and one for wet ingredients – to keep your preparations organized and ensure proper mixing.
• Rubber Spatula: Essential for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl, folding in dry ingredients and cranberries gently, and transferring batter to the bundt pan without deflating it.
• Wire Rack: Crucial for cooling the cake evenly after baking. This allows air to circulate around all sides, preventing condensation and ensuring the cake doesn’t become soggy.
• Zester or Fine Grater: To extract the aromatic orange zest from your fresh oranges.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons / Digital Scale: For precise measurement of ingredients. Using a digital kitchen scale for dry ingredients (like flour and sugar) is highly recommended for accuracy, as volumetric measurements can vary significantly.

Storage Tips for Your Orange Cranberry Bundt Cake

To keep your Orange Cranberry Bundt Cake fresh and delicious for as long as possible, proper storage is key. Here are our recommendations:

Store this delightful cranberry orange cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you prefer to extend its freshness, you can refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 7 days. When serving a refrigerated cake, it’s best to bring it back to room temperature for about 30-60 minutes before slicing, as this enhances its texture and allows the flavors to fully bloom.

This Orange Cranberry Bundt Cake is also perfectly suitable for freezing, which makes it an excellent option for make-ahead baking. To freeze, ensure the cake is completely cooled and freeze it *without* the glaze and sugared cranberries. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, bring the cake to room temperature, then prepare and drizzle with the fresh orange glaze and decorate with newly made sugared cranberries for the best presentation and taste.

Expert Baking Tips for a Flawless Bundt Cake

Achieving a perfect bundt cake, especially one with intricate designs, can be a breeze with a few crucial tips. Pay close attention to these details for the best possible outcome:

Master the Greasing and Dusting of Your Bundt Tin: This step cannot be overstated. Cakes baked in bundt tins, particularly those with elaborate patterns, can be notoriously difficult to release if the pan isn’t prepared correctly. Ensure you butter yours really well, getting into every single groove, crevice, and corner with softened butter or melted shortening. Follow up with a generous dusting of flour, tilting and tapping the pan to coat every surface, then invert and gently tap out any excess. For pans with extremely detailed designs, a pastry brush can be invaluable for spreading the butter evenly. While some sources advise against using butter, we’ve found it works perfectly when applied meticulously. You can also opt for a special baking spray that contains flour (often labeled as “baking spray with flour”) for ultimate non-stick assurance, but avoid using regular cooking spray as it can leave a sticky residue.

Prevent Cranberries from Sinking: A common challenge with fruit-filled cakes is having all the fruit sink to the bottom during baking. To prevent this, reserve about 1 tablespoon of the measured flour from your recipe. Just before folding the cranberries into the cake batter, gently toss them in this reserved flour until they are lightly coated. This thin layer of flour creates friction, helping the cranberries suspend more evenly throughout the batter as it bakes, ensuring every slice is studded with juicy, tart fruit.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baking Bundt Cakes

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Orange and Cranberry Bundt Cake Recipe

Calories: 314 kcal

Author: Anna Wierzbinska

Please note that all my recipes are developed and tested using metric grams for the most accurate results. I highly recommend using digital scales for precise measurements. While a conversion to US customary units is provided in the recipe card, please be aware that I have not personally tested the recipe using these volumetric measurements.

This recipe was originally published in November 2018. It has been updated with new photos, a revised recipe, and additional tips and insights in December 2022 to provide an even better baking experience.