There is something truly magical about a cake that combines the zesty brightness of orange with the tart punch of cranberries, and that is exactly what makes this Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake Recipe so irresistible. Picture a soft, buttery crumb infused with fresh citrus zest and studded with juicy cranberries, all finished with a glossy orange glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a festive holiday gathering or simply craving a cozy treat during the colder months, this cake brings cheer with every bite and is sure to be a crowd favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a round bundt cake with a golden-brown crust, arranged in segments around a central hole. The cake has visible dark spots of berries or fruit inside the dough. A white icing is drizzled in lines over the cake, creating thin stripes from the top middle to the edges. The cake sits on a plain white plate on top of a white marbled table. Nearby, there are small bowls filled with red berries, halved lemons, a cup with light-colored drink, and a white crocheted cloth. A woman’s hand is about to touch one side of the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the key to achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture in this dessert. Each component plays a vital role — from the flour that creates the tender crumb to the fresh cranberries that add bursts of tartness and the orange zest that infuses the cake with its signature citrus aroma.

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and lightness needed for that perfect crumb.
1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right without overpowering the citrus notes.
1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture, creating a tender crumb.
4 large eggs: Binds the ingredients and helps the cake rise beautifully.
½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt: Enhances moistness and adds a subtle tang that balances the sweetness.
½ cup milk: Keeps the batter smooth and light.
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries: Bursting pops of tart flavor that bring holiday cheer.
Zest of 1 orange: Infuses the cake with fragrant citrus oils for a refreshing aroma and taste.
1 tsp orange extract (optional): For an extra citrus punch that intensifies the orange flavor.
2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
½ tsp baking soda: Works with the sour cream for tenderness and lightness.
½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
For the Orange Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar and 2–3 tbsp fresh orange juice to create a glossy, citrusy finish.
Additional orange zest (optional): Adds a pretty, fresh garnish that hints at the flavors inside.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature when your batter is ready. Next, grease your Bundt pan thoroughly and dust it lightly with flour. This helps the cake release cleanly after baking and keeps its stunning shape intact.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This blend will provide the structure and lift your cake needs, so mixing these dry ingredients well means even distribution throughout the batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is essential because it incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a tender and airy crumb that feels like a dream with every bite.

Step 4: Add Eggs One at a Time

Adding eggs individually while mixing ensures they are fully incorporated, giving the batter the perfect consistency for rising. The eggs lend structure and help create a moist, velvety texture.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

Mix in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), milk, orange zest, and orange extract if you’re using it. This combination adds moisture and that signature tangy citrus flavor that makes this recipe stand out.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients Gently

Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients and stir just until combined. It’s important to avoid overmixing here, as that can lead to a dense or tough cake. The goal is a smooth batter with a tender crumb.

Step 7: Fold in the Cranberries

Toss your fresh or frozen cranberries in a little flour to prevent them from sinking, then gently fold them into the batter. These juicy bursts of tartness are a highlight of the cake, so you want to keep them evenly distributed throughout.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared Bundt pan. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will fill with the warm, inviting scent of citrus and berries — a perfect sign that your cake is nearly ready!

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, whisk powdered sugar with fresh orange juice to create the glaze, then drizzle it generously over the cake. Finish with a sprinkle of orange zest for a beautiful, fragrant touch.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake Recipe

A round bundt cake with a light brown crust sits on a white marbled surface inside a clear glass plate. The cake is covered with a thick layer of smooth white icing that drips down the sides, pooling slightly at the bottom. There are bright red sugared cranberries placed evenly on top of the icing, adding a touch of color. A slice has been cut from the cake, showing a soft, pale yellow inside with small pieces of cranberry. A silver spoon rests inside the plate near the cut piece, and a woman's hand is seen holding the spoon. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or an extra sprinkle of fresh orange zest instantly elevates the cake’s appearance and enhances its citrus aroma. For a festive look, you can add a few fresh cranberries on top or a few sprigs of fresh rosemary to complement the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs delightfully with lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For holiday brunches, serve alongside freshly brewed coffee or spiced tea to balance the bright tartness and sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake onto a pretty platter and weave in some seasonal greenery or edible flowers around the edges for an eye-catching centerpiece. You can also serve individual slices topped with a dollop of mascarpone cheese or a drizzle of extra orange glaze for a fancy twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keeping it covered prevents the cake from drying out while allowing the flavors to mellow and develop, making each slice even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

This Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap cooled slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen slices can be stored for up to three months and make a perfect quick treat after thawing.

Reheating

If you want to reheat a slice, let it thaw at room temperature and then warm it gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. A touch of warmth revives the buttery texture and citrus aroma, making it taste freshly baked all over again.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries straight from the freezer?

Absolutely! Use frozen cranberries directly without thawing to prevent extra moisture in the batter. Tossing them in flour before folding in helps keep them suspended throughout the cake.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Yes! Simply swap the unsalted butter for vegan butter, and substitute sour cream or Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt or another plant-based alternative. Using plant milk instead of dairy milk completes the dairy-free switch without sacrificing flavor.

What type of Bundt pan works best?

A standard 10-inch Bundt pan works perfectly for this recipe. Make sure to grease and flour it well to ensure the cake releases cleanly and maintains its beautiful shape.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Definitely! Chopped pecans or walnuts add a satisfying crunch that pairs wonderfully with the tart cranberries and sweet orange glaze. Add about ½ cup during the folding step.

How far in advance can I bake this cake?

You can prepare the cake a day or two ahead of time. It actually tastes better after resting overnight as the flavors deepen. Just keep it covered at room temperature or refrigerate overnight and glaze before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake Recipe is a heartfelt celebration of flavors that brighten any occasion. It strikes the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and citrusy with a tender, moist crumb beneath its shiny glaze. Whether you’re welcoming guests or treating yourself, I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy every joyful, flavorful bite!