Are You Looking For Christmas Baking Inspiration?

The festive season is synonymous with joy, laughter, and, of course, delightful treats, cakes and bakes. As Christmas approaches, what better way to spread the festive cheer than by indulging in a homemade Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake? This tasty dessert combines the tartness of cranberries with the citrusy zing of oranges, creating a perfect harmony of flavours that will undoubtedly become a cherished addition to your Christmas traditions.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

4 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup sour cream

Zest of 2 oranges

1/4 cup fresh orange juice

For the Cranberry Swirl:

1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup water

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons fresh orange juice

Orange zest for garnish

Method:

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this mouthwatering masterpiece.

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Swirl

Start by making the cranberry swirl that will infuse our cake with bursts of tartness. In a saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, granulated sugar and water. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, creating a luscious cranberry compote. Allow it to cool while you move on to the next steps.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 175°C and generously grease a Bundt pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This ensures that our cake releases effortlessly and maintains its intricate shape.

Step 3: Sift and Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are well combined and eliminates any lumps, resulting in a smooth and evenly textured cake.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process creates a velvety base for our cake, ensuring a moist and tender crumb.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Incorporate the vanilla extract, enhancing the overall flavour profile of our Bundt cake. Mixing these ingredients gradually ensures a smooth and creamy batter.

Step 6: Incorporate Sour Cream and Citrus Zest

Gently fold in the sour cream, orange zest, and fresh orange juice. The sour cream adds richness and moisture, while the citrusy notes elevate the cake’s brightness, making it the perfect festive dessert.

Step 7: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake. The goal is to achieve a smooth batter with a consistent texture.

Step 8: Layer the Batter and Cranberry Swirl

Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared Bundt pan. Create a well in the centre using the back of a spoon, and spoon the cranberry swirl into the well. Top with the remaining batter, ensuring that the cranberry swirl is enclosed within the cake.

Step 9: Swirl and Bake

Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the cranberry mixture into the cake batter to create a marbled effect. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen will be an early Christmas gift for your senses.

Step 10: Prepare the Glaze

While the cake is baking, whisk together powdered sugar and fresh orange juice to create a simple yet delicious glaze. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar or juice as needed.

Step 11: Glaze and Garnish

Once the Bundt cake has cooled for 10-15 minutes, carefully transfer it to a serving plate. Drizzle the orange glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Finish with a sprinkle of orange zest for a festive and visually appealing touch.

The Ultimate Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

As you slice into your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake, you will be met with a burst of flavours – the sweetness of the cake, the tartness of the cranberries and the citrusy notes from the oranges. This Christmas recipe is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate, a testament to the joy and warmth that the festive season brings.

Whether shared with loved ones around the fireplace or gifted to friends and neighbours, this Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake is sure to become a cherished tradition in your festivities. As you savour each bite, may the spirit of Christmas fill your heart and home with love, laughter, and the sweet satisfaction of a well-baked Christmas treat. Happy baking and a Merry Christmas!