Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

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Delicious Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake adorned with cranberries and orange zest.

Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of fresh oranges and tart cranberries, creating a moist and flavourful cake that’s perfect for any occasion. This cake not only looks beautiful with its elegant bundt shape, but it also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma as it bakes. Whether for a festive gathering, a family tea time, or just because you fancy something sweet, this cake satisfies on all levels.

What Goes into This Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

To create this delicious dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (190g)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup sour cream (240ml)
  • 1 cup sugar (200g)
  • 3 large eggs
  • Zest of one orange (about 1 tablespoon)
  • Juice of one orange (about 1/4 cup or 60ml)
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened (113g)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar (for the pan)
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries (150g)

For the Icing:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar (120g)
  • 2-3 tablespoons water, milk, or orange juice

Step-by-Step Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake Recipe

Creating this scrumptious cake is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps:

  1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it nice and warm before baking.
  2. Prepare the pan: Spray your bundt pan with cooking spray and sprinkle 2 tablespoons of sugar evenly on the bottom. Scatter 1/4 cup of cranberries on top of the sugar.
  3. Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.
  4. Add eggs: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth mixture.
  5. Mix in orange zest and juice: Stir in the fresh orange juice and zest, making sure everything is well combined.
  6. Incorporate sour cream: Blend the sour cream in until the mixture is smooth.
  7. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
  8. Fold in cranberries: Gently fold in the remaining 1 1/4 cups of fresh cranberries, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
  9. Pour batter: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  10. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
  11. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  12. Make the icing: For the icing, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of water, milk, or orange juice until you achieve a smooth consistency.
  13. Drizzle icing: Once the cake is cool, drizzle the icing over the top, letting it elegantly drip down the sides.

Serve & Enjoy Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Serving this cake is an absolute pleasure! Slice it into generous portions and consider presenting it on a beautiful cake stand for an impressive display. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with each slice and enhances the fruity flavours. For a touch of festivity, you might even add a few sprigs of fresh mint as a garnish.

Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

  • Make it more orangey: If you want an extra burst of flavour, add a little more orange zest or juice when mixing the batter.
  • Cranberry alternatives: If fresh cranberries aren’t available, you can use frozen cranberries, but do not thaw them before adding to the batter to maintain their shape.
  • Storage: This cake can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, but it can also be frozen for longer enjoyment. Just wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.

Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake FAQs

Can I use low-fat sour cream?
Yes, you can substitute low-fat sour cream; it will still yield a moist cake.

How can I tell when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the centre of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is ready.

What if I can’t find fresh cranberries?
You can use dried cranberries, but be mindful they are sweeter, so you may want to reduce the sugar in the batter slightly.

Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake is a delightful addition to any dessert table or a simple treat for your afternoon tea. We hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavours that blend beautifully in every bite! Happy baking!