Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Nothing beats the early whiffs of a warm, baking cake wafting through the kitchen. The sweet and tangy aroma of cranberries mixed with zesty orange makes even the busiest days feel a little brighter. I remember one particular Sunday morning when I had a mountain of laundry waiting while my daughters giggled over the weekend cartoons. The sound of a whisk meeting creamy butter and sugar filled the house, inviting them into the kitchen to see what magic I was creating. The cheerful mess we made together, coupled with the sugary scent of the Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake, turned what could have been just another day into a cozy family celebration.

Why Make This Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake transcends weekend treats; it becomes a canvas for family memories. Each ingredient plays a role, not just in flavor but in creating connections. This cake is perfect for gatherings, whether you are hosting a holiday brunch or celebrating a birthday. Its bright color and tangy sweetness are sure to make anyone smile.

In my busy New York life, I often look for ways to bring my family together over a shared love of good food. The Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake has earned its special place on our dessert table, where it often finds an audience at family gatherings. Each slice brings bursts of tart cranberries interlaced with zesty orange, and it pairs perfectly with quiet conversations and laughter. This cake doesn’t just nourish our bodies; it nourishes our relationships.

Bringing Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake to Life

“Every time I stir this pot, it smells just like Sunday at home.”

Let’s get into the kitchen and start creating this delicious cake. The moment you mix the butter and sugar, a wave of nostalgia washes over you. It is as if you’re transported back to your grandmother’s house, surrounded by the warmth of family love and shared meals.

To begin, we’ll gather our ingredients. Your kitchen will soon fill with not just aromas but also warmth and connection as you create something beautiful from scratch. There is a certain magic in baking, where ordinary ingredients turn into extraordinary memories.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering supplies is half the fun. As you measure and mix, imagine how much joy this cake will bring. Here’s what you will need:

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• Zest of one orange (about 1 tablespoon)
• Juice of one orange
• 1/2 cup butter (softened)
• 2 tablespoons sugar (for the bottom of the pan)
• 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries

For the icing:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 to 3 tablespoons water, milk, or orange juice

A little hint: Ensure you use fresh cranberries if possible. They add a delightful tartness and beautiful color, not to mention a sense of homegrown charm.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
2. Spray a bundt pan with cooking spray. This helps with easy release after baking.
3. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of sugar on the bottom of the pan. It creates a lovely sweet crust.
4. Add 1/4 cup of the fresh cranberries to the bottom of the pan and set aside.
5. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture turns a pale lemon color, about 4 to 5 minutes. The texture should feel light and airy.
6. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated.
7. Pour in the fresh orange juice and add the orange zest. Watch as the mixture comes alive with color and fragrance.
8. Stir in the sour cream. The batter will become creamy and thick.
9. Meanwhile, in another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until the batter is just combined; be careful not to overmix.
10. Lastly, fold in the remaining 1 1/4 cups of fresh cranberries. You’ll love the way they pop and burst with color in the batter.
11. Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan, smoothing out the top.
12. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will be filled with a heavenly aroma by now.
13. Once it’s ready, let the cake sit in the pan for 5 minutes, allowing it to set.
14. Carefully turn the cake out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
15. Finally, mix your icing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cake.

And just like that, you’ve created something wonderful. The anticipation as it bakes and cools can feel almost unbearable, but the moment you take that first slice, you’ll know it was worth every minute.

Serving Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake at the Family Table

Presenting this cake at the family table becomes an event in itself. Gather around, and the enthusiasm is palpable. The steam rises as you slice into the warm cake, revealing its rich golden color dotted with ruby-red cranberries. The smell is irresistible, drawing everyone in.

Cutting into the cake is almost like a small ceremony, where each slice carries a bit of warmth and a generous serving of love. You can hear laughter mixing with the gentle clink of forks against plates.

Sometimes, we enjoy it with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat. Other times, simply sharing this cake alongside a pot of freshly brewed coffee or tea is enough. Each bite bursts with flavor, and the fresh cranberries bring a delightful tartness, balancing the sweetness.

Storing and Reheating Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

If you find yourself with leftovers, fear not! This cake can last a few days when stored correctly. Place the cooled bundt cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

If you want to keep it longer, this cake freezes beautifully. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, ensuring it won’t be exposed to air. It can stay fresh in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Interestingly, the flavors of the cake deepen as it rests. The tart cranberries become even more pronounced and meld wonderfully with the bright orange flavors.

Quick Tips from My Kitchen

Here are a few of my handy tips to make your baking experience even smoother:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. It’ll help them mix more easily.
2. Substitute with Greek Yogurt: If you’re out of sour cream, Greek yogurt works just as well and adds a pleasant tang.
3. Zest Right Before Juicing: Zesting the orange before juicing makes it easier and ensures you get all the flavor out of that beautiful fruit.
4. Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary, so check your cake a few minutes before the recommended time to avoid overbaking.
5. Add Nutmeg or Cinnamon: A sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon in the batter adds a cozy warmth to every slice.

Family Twists and Adaptations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. I love experimenting with different flavors based on what I have on hand. Sometimes, I’ll add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch.

You could also try swapping out the cranberries for blueberries or raspberries, depending on the season. If you want to reduce the sugar, honey or maple syrup can be substituted, though you may need to adjust the flour a bit. Adding a little vanilla extract can also enhance the flavor profile, making it feel even more special.

During the holidays, I like to turn this cake into a festive centerpiece by drizzling it with a bit of warm orange glaze and sprinkling it with fresh zest. It becomes a lovely treat to share during gatherings, and everyone asks for seconds.

Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

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• Author: cookthatdish
• Total Time: 70 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

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Description

A delightful bundt cake with sweet and tangy cranberries and zesty orange that creates family memories.

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Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 large eggs
• Zest of one orange (about 1 tablespoon)
• Juice of one orange
• 1/2 cup butter (softened)
• 2 tablespoons sugar (for the bottom of the pan)
• 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries
• For the icing:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 to 3 tablespoons water, milk, or orange juice

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
2. Spray a bundt pan with cooking spray.
3. Sprinkle the 2 tablespoons of sugar on the bottom of the pan.
4. Add 1/4 cup of the fresh cranberries to the bottom of the pan and set aside.
5. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until pale lemon color, about 4 to 5 minutes.
6. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
7. Pour in the orange juice and add the orange zest.
8. Stir in the sour cream until creamy and thick.
9. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder, then gradually add to the wet ingredients.
10. Fold in the remaining 1 1/4 cups of fresh cranberries.
11. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing out the top.
12. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a tester comes out clean.
13. Let the cake sit for 5 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool.
14. Mix icing ingredients until smooth and drizzle over the cooled cake.

Notes

For best results, use fresh cranberries and ensure ingredients are at room temperature.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

FAQs About Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! I often prepare it early in the morning while underfoot chaos is happening. Then it’s ready to enjoy by dinner, leaving the flavor fresh and delightful.

What can I use instead of fresh cranberries?

If fresh cranberries are tough to find, you can use frozen ones. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the batter.

Can this cake be made gluten-free?

Yes! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.

How can I make this cake even more festive?

Try adding holiday spices like nutmeg or cinnamon to the batter. You can also garnish it with candied orange slices or a sprinkle of edible glitter for a celebration effect.

How long does the cake last?

At room temperature in an airtight container, the cake will last for about three days. If freezing, it can keep for up to three months.

A Final Thought

As I reflect on all the delicious memories tied to this Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake, I feel gratitude for the simple joys of cooking. The kitchen can be a sanctuary amidst the hectic pace of life in New York City. It’s where we create, connect, and celebrate, even in small ways. Whether through quiet evenings enjoying dessert together or bustling Sunday mornings filled with laughter, this cake serves as a reminder that cooking can indeed be a joyful experience, not just a necessity.

So, gather your loved ones and let the process of making together remind you how delightful home-cooked meals can be. No matter how busy life gets, never forget to nourish not just your body but your relationships, one recipe at a time.