Delicious Cranberry Bundt Cake Recipe

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by Liora

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Cranberry Bundt Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the tangy flavor of fresh cranberries with a moist and fluffy cake texture. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, this cake not only looks stunning but also tantalizes the taste buds. Imagine a rich buttery flavor complemented by bursts of tart cranberries in every bite. This recipe is simple enough for novice bakers yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Plus, the vibrant red cranberries make it visually appealing on any dessert table. With just a few steps and common ingredients, you’ll be able to create this indulgent treat that will become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking to celebrate the holidays or simply indulge in something sweet, this Cranberry Bundt Cake offers both flavor and charm.

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Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Bundt Cake

  • Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
  • Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Cranberry Bundt Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Fresh Cranberries: Use tart, fresh cranberries for the best flavor; frozen cranberries can also work but should be thawed first.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour provides structure to the cake; ensure it’s sifted before measuring.
  • Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the batter; consider reducing if you prefer a less sweet cake.
  • Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps the cake rise; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
  • Salt: A pinch enhances flavors; don’t skip it as it balances sweetness.
  • Unsalted Butter: Softened butter adds richness; use room temperature butter for easy mixing.
  • Eggs: Large eggs bind the ingredients together; bring them to room temperature before using.
  • Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract adds depth of flavor; avoid imitation for better results.
  • Milk: Whole milk gives moisture; substitute buttermilk for added tanginess if desired.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

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How to Make Cranberry Bundt Cake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until fully combined.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about three minutes on medium speed.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Then stir in vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while alternating with milk. Start and end with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in Cranberries

Gently fold in fresh cranberries until evenly distributed throughout the batter without overmixing.

Transfer to your prepared bundt pan and bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Once baked, cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack.

 

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Let eggs and butter reach room temperature before starting for better mixing.
  • Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined when folding in cranberries to maintain a tender crumb.
  • Check Doneness Early: Start checking doneness at around the lower end of baking time (50 minutes) to avoid overbaking.

Enjoy making this delightful Cranberry Bundt Cake that’s sure to impress!

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How to Serve Cranberry Bundt Cake

This Cranberry Bundt Cake is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

  • Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast, enhancing the cake’s tartness.
  • Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream complements the tangy cranberries perfectly, creating a delightful dessert experience.
  • Tea or Coffee: Enjoying a slice with your favorite hot beverage elevates the flavors, making it an ideal afternoon treat.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Tips and tricks

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Make Ahead and Storage

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the batter for the Cranberry Bundt Cake a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
  • Storing: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.
  • Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place individual slices on a baking sheet and warm them for about 10 minutes. This ensures the cake stays moist and retains its texture.

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Suggestions for Cranberry Bundt Cake

Use Fresh Cranberries

Using fresh cranberries in your Cranberry Bundt Cake enhances flavor and texture. Dried cranberries are convenient, but they lack the tartness that fresh ones provide. If you must use dried, soak them in warm water or orange juice for 15 minutes to plump them up. This simple step will infuse your cake with a delightful tanginess. Remember, fresh cranberries add moisture too, which can make your cake light and fluffy. So choose wisely to elevate your baking experience.

Don’t Overmix the Batter

Overmixing the batter is a common mistake many bakers make when preparing a Cranberry Bundt Cake. Mixing too vigorously can lead to a dense texture instead of the desired tender crumb. After adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. It’s normal for some lumps to remain; these will disappear during baking. Allowing the flour to hydrate without overworking it ensures that your cake rises beautifully and maintains a light structure.

Properly Grease Your Bundt Pan

A well-greased bundt pan is crucial for preventing sticky disasters when you flip your Cranberry Bundt Cake out of the pan. Use butter or a non-stick spray generously on all surfaces, including crevices. For an extra layer of security, dust the greased pan with flour or sugar after applying grease. This step not only helps with removal but also adds an appealing crust to the outer layer of your cake.

Let It Cool Before Glazing

Patience is key when making a Cranberry Bundt Cake, especially regarding glazing. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. If you glaze while it’s still warm, the icing will melt and run off instead of creating that beautiful finish we admire in cakes. Cooling allows the flavors to settle and makes slicing easier later on.

FAQs

FAQs

What makes my Cranberry Bundt Cake dense?

There are several factors that can contribute to a dense Cranberry Bundt Cake. One common reason is overmixing the batter, which activates gluten and leads to tough texture. Additionally, using too much flour can also create density; it’s essential to measure accurately by spooning flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping directly from the bag. Lastly, underbaking can result in a soggy center; always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the cake’s center—if it comes out clean, your cake is ready!

Can I substitute other fruits in my Cranberry Bundt Cake?

Yes! While cranberries add unique tartness, you can substitute with other fruits like blueberries or raspberries if desired. Keep in mind that these fruits offer different flavor profiles; blueberries are sweeter while raspberries are slightly tart as well but less so than cranberries. Adjust sugar levels accordingly based on sweetness preference or experiment with citrus zest for added brightness.

How long should I bake my Cranberry Bundt Cake?

Typically, a Cranberry Bundt Cake bakes at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes depending on your oven’s specifics and pan size used. To ensure even baking, rotate the pan halfway through cooking time if you notice uneven browning. Always perform a toothpick test around 50 minutes; insert it into the thickest part of the cake; if it comes out clean or with minimal crumbs attached, then your cake is done.

What’s the best way to store leftover Cranberry Bundt Cake?

To store leftover slices of your Cranberry Bundt Cake properly, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them fresh longer, consider refrigerating them where they can last up to one week. For extended storage, freezing is an excellent option—just ensure they’re wrapped well and stored in freezer-safe bags or containers; they can be frozen for up to three months.

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Conclusion for Cranberry Bundt Cake

In conclusion, crafting an exceptional Cranberry Bundt Cake involves attention to detail and avoiding common pitfalls such as overmixing and improper greasing of pans. By using fresh cranberries and allowing proper cooling time before glazing, you enhance both flavor and presentation significantly. Adhering to these tips ensures not just a delicious outcome but also impressive results that will wow family and friends alike! Remember these key points as you embark on this delightful baking journey—the joy of sharing homemade treats awaits!

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Cranberry Bundt Cake


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  • Author: Liora
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Description

Cranberry Bundt Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly marries the tartness of fresh cranberries with a moist, buttery cake. This show-stopping treat is ideal for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, sure to impress guests with its vibrant color and delicious flavor. The recipe is straightforward enough for novice bakers, making it an excellent choice for those looking to create a stunning centerpiece without the fuss. Topped with a light glaze, this cake can be served warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed with tea for a delightful afternoon snack. Whether you’re celebrating a festive occasion or simply indulging in something sweet, this Cranberry Bundt Cake will quickly become a family favorite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups fresh cranberries
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup whole milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your Bundt pan.
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy in a separate bowl.
  4. Add eggs one by one, mixing in vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients alternately with milk until just combined.
  6. Gently fold in cranberries to avoid overmixing.
  7. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in the pan for ten minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

For added flavor, consider incorporating orange zest into the batter.

If using frozen cranberries, thaw them thoroughly and pat dry before adding to the batter to avoid excess moisture.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 210mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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