Cranberry Bundt Cake Recipe

“Make this moist and flavorful Cranberry Bundt Cake packed with fresh cranberries, zesty orange flavor, and topped with a sweet citrus glaze! This easy bundt cake recipe is perfect for holidays, Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion. The combination of buttermilk, butter, and vanilla creates a soft and tender crumb, while the orange glaze adds the perfect finishing touch. Serve this homemade cranberry cake with coffee or tea for a delicious dessert or brunch treat. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead baking!”

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 12 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted (cooled slightly)
• 1/3 cup light olive oil or canola oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 Tbsp orange zest (from 1 orange), plus extra for garnish
• 2 cups fresh cranberries, rinsed, dried, and tossed with 1/2 Tbsp flour

For the Orange Glaze and Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 3 Tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice (adjust for desired consistency)
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 1 cup sugared cranberries (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
Preheat the oven to 350˚F and position a rack in the center. Generously butter and flour a bundt pan, tapping out excess flour.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar on high speed for about 3 minutes until pale and fluffy. Gradually mix in the oil, melted butter, and vanilla extract, blending well after each addition. Finally, stir in the buttermilk until fully incorporated.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined and no flour streaks remain.

Toss the cranberries with 1/2 Tbsp flour, then gently fold them into the batter along with 1 Tbsp of orange zest.

2. Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Bake at 350˚F for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.

Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before adding the glaze.

3. Make the Orange Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more orange juice if needed for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker consistency.

Drizzle the glaze over the completely cooled cake and garnish with additional orange zest and sugared cranberries if desired. Serve and enjoy!

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Tips

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
• Tossing the cranberries in flour helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
• Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake.
• Let the cake cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap fresh cranberries for dried cranberries (soak in warm water for 10 minutes before use).
• Substitute lemon zest and juice for an orange-lemon twist.
• Replace buttermilk with plain Greek yogurt or sour cream for a denser texture.
• Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, but do not thaw them before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture.

How do I store leftover cake?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap the cooled, unglazed cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before glazing.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a decadent treat.
• Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist, tender, and packed with fresh cranberry and orange flavors.
• Perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
• Beautiful presentation, ideal for holidays and special occasions.
• Easy to make ahead and freezer-friendly!