Cranberry Spice Bundt Cake Recipe

As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of a freshly baked cranberry spice bundt cake wafting through the house. The combination of tart cranberries, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness creates a dessert that is both comforting and festive. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert for your holiday table or simply craving a cozy treat on a chilly evening, this cranberry spice bundt cake is sure to hit the spot.

With the perfect balance of flavors and textures, this cranberry spice bundt cake is a true crowd-pleaser. The tartness of the cranberries is complemented by the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, while a drizzle of orange glaze adds a citrusy zing that elevates the entire dessert. Every bite is a symphony of flavors that will have you coming back for more.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is incredibly easy to follow. The steps are straightforward, and the result is a stunning cake that looks as impressive as it tastes. So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to bake up a delicious cranberry spice bundt cake that will become a holiday favorite in no time!

Let’s get started by exploring why this cranberry spice bundt cake recipe is bound to become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of traditional holiday flavors, this cranberry spice bundt cake is a must-try. The combination of tart cranberries, warm spices, and citrusy undertones creates a dessert that is both familiar and exciting.

For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe offers flexibility. It can easily be adapted to be gluten-free, vegan, or low in sugar without compromising on flavor or texture.

Not only is this cranberry spice bundt cake delicious, but it also makes for a stunning centerpiece on any holiday dessert table. Its beautiful shape and vibrant color make it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds.

Finally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it on its own, with a dollop of whipped cream, or even paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Cranberries	2 cups	Fresh or frozen
Flour	2 1/2 cups	Gluten-free flour can be used
Sugar	1 1/2 cups	Adjust according to taste
Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves)	1 tsp each
Orange zest	1 tbsp
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Eggs	3	Or flax eggs for a vegan version
Milk	1 cup	Regular or plant-based
Butter	1/2 cup, melted	Or oil for a dairy-free version

These ingredients come together to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures in this cranberry spice bundt cake. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a bundt cake pan.

2. In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, spices, and orange zest until well combined.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter.

4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

5. Gently fold in the cranberries, being careful not to overmix the batter.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt cake pan and smooth the top.

7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Drizzle with orange glaze before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Success

1. Use fresh cranberries for the best flavor and texture in the cake.

2. For a gluten-free version, use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend.

3. Be sure not to overmix the batter to avoid a dense cake.

4. Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the glaze to prevent it from melting into the cake.

5. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Variations & Substitutions

For a vegan version of this cranberry spice bundt cake, you can substitute flax eggs for regular eggs and plant-based milk for dairy milk. Additionally, you can experiment with different spices such as cardamom or allspice to create unique flavor profiles.

What to Serve With Cranberry Spice Bundt Cake

This cranberry spice bundt cake pairs beautifully with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. For a more indulgent dessert, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. To balance out the sweetness, a tart fruit compote or a citrus salad can also be excellent accompaniments.

Storage & Reheating

To store this cranberry spice bundt cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply microwave individual slices for a few seconds or warm the entire cake in a low oven until just heated through.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 250
Protein: 4g
Carbs: 35g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 200mg

This cranberry spice bundt cake is a versatile dessert suitable for various dietary needs, including those looking for a lower-sugar option or a diabetic-friendly treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the batter can result in a tough cake with a dense texture.

2. Using frozen cranberries without thawing them first can lead to uneven baking and pockets of moisture in the cake.

3. Baking the cake at too high a temperature can cause it to brown too quickly on the outside while remaining undercooked inside.

FAQ

1. Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use dried cranberries, but be sure to soak them in hot water for 10 minutes before adding them to the batter to prevent them from drying out the cake.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake actually tastes better the day after it’s baked as the flavors have had time to meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

3. Can I freeze this cranberry spice bundt cake?

Yes, this cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

Now that you have the recipe for this delicious cranberry spice bundt cake, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gathering or simply treating yourself to a cozy dessert at home, this cake is sure to delight your taste buds and fill your kitchen with the warm, inviting scents of the season. So, grab your ingredients and mixing bowl, and let the baking magic begin!

If you’re a fan of cranberry desserts, be sure to check out our other recipes like Cranberry Orange Bread or Cranberry Almond Tart for more ways to enjoy this seasonal fruit.