Name: Delicious Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake for the Holidays
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Allow to soften before using for ease of mixing.); 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (Be sure to measure accurately for best results.); 2 cups Granulated Sugar (Substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.); 1 tablespoon Orange Zest (Use a fresh orange for optimal flavor.); 1 cup Light Brown Sugar (Can be substituted with dark brown sugar for a richer taste.); 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (Can be replaced with melted coconut oil.); 4 large Large Eggs (Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation.); 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract (Use high-quality vanilla for best flavor.); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (Ensure it's fresh for effective leavening.); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cardamom; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/2 teaspoon Ground Ginger; 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg; 1 cup Buttermilk (Can be substituted with milk plus lemon juice or vinegar.); 2 cups Fresh or Frozen Cranberries (Do not thaw if using frozen.); 1 cup Water; 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Use extra for more cranberries if desired.); 2 cups Confectioners’ Sugar (Additional cranberry juice may be added for a thinner consistency.); 1/4 cup Cranberry Juice (Use unsweetened juice for balance.); 3 sprigs Rosemary Sprigs (Optional garnish providing a hint of herbal flavor and decoration.)

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The aroma of freshly baked cakes wafting through the house can whisk you back to heartwarming holiday gatherings. That’s exactly what my Festive Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake brings to the table—an elegant dessert that’s sure to become the star of your celebration. With a moist, fluffy texture enriched by tart cranberries and a delightful blend of warm spices, this cake perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors. Not only is it a stunning centerpiece for your holiday spread, but it’s also quick to whip up and freezer-friendly, making your festive season stress-free. Are you ready to create a dessert that will have everyone talking as they savor every scrumptious bite?

Why is this Bundt Cake a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: This Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake combines tart cranberries with warm spices, creating a deliciously festive treat.

Quick and Easy: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have this beauty whipped up in no time!

Gorgeous Presentation: The stunning glaze and optional garnishes, like sugared cranberries and rosemary, make it a showstopper at any gathering.

Versatile Delight: Perfect with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee, it complements any holiday beverage beautifully.

Freezer-Friendly: Bake ahead and store; it keeps well, ensuring you always have a sweet surprise at hand.

If you’re looking for more holiday inspirations, check out my Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnabon and Orange Glazed Salmon for your festive feasts!

Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
• Unsalted Butter – Provides moisture and richness. Note: Allow to soften before using for ease of mixing.
• All-Purpose Flour – Serves as the backbone for the cake’s structure. Note: Be sure to measure accurately for best results.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake while helping to create a tender crumb. Substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• Orange Zest – Adds brightness and a citrus aroma. Use a fresh orange for optimal flavor.
• Light Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and depth of flavor. Can be substituted with dark brown sugar for a richer taste.
• Vegetable Oil – Enhances moisture and tenderness. Can be replaced with melted coconut oil.
• Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and provides structure. Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better incorporation.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and enhances sweetness. Use high-quality vanilla for best flavor.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise. Ensure it’s fresh for effective leavening.
• Ground Cardamom, Cinnamon, Salt, Baking Soda, Ground Ginger, Ground Nutmeg – Spice blend that creates a warm, festive flavor profile.
• Buttermilk – Adds moisture and tenderness to the cake. Can be substituted with milk plus lemon juice or vinegar.
• Fresh or Frozen Cranberries – Provide tartness and visual appeal. Do not thaw if using frozen.

For the Sugared Cranberries
• Water – Used for making sugared cranberries.
• Granulated Sugar (for sugared cranberries) – Sweetens and coats the cranberries. Use extra for more cranberries if desired.

For the Glaze
• Confectioners’ Sugar – Used in the glaze for sweetness and texture. Additional cranberry juice may be added for a thinner consistency.
• Cranberry Juice – Provides a tart flavor for the glaze. Use unsweetened juice for balance.

Optional Garnish
• Rosemary Sprigs – Optional garnish providing a hint of herbal flavor and decoration.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake

Step 1: Prepare Pans
Begin by thoroughly greasing your Bundt pan with unsalted butter, making sure to cover all the intricate designs to prevent sticking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and have a toothpick handy for testing the cake’s doneness later. The right preparation is crucial for a flawless Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cardamom, cinnamon, salt, baking soda, ground ginger, and ground nutmeg. This blend of spices will create that warm, festive flavor that complements the tart cranberries beautifully. Set this mixture aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a separate bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar together until the mixture becomes fluffy and pale—about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer. This step incorporates air into your batter, ensuring a moist and tender Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the large eggs, pure vanilla extract, vegetable oil, and buttermilk to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix everything until smooth and well-combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary. The creamy texture at this stage sets the perfect foundation for a rich cake.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a dense cake. Once combined, carefully fold in the fresh or frozen cranberries, ensuring each one is coated with the batter for a beautiful distribution of tartness throughout the cake.

Step 6: Bake
Pour the luscious batter into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake—it should be golden brown and spring back when gently pressed.

Step 7: Cool and Remove
After baking, allow the cake to cool in the Bundt pan for about 10 minutes. This will help it set and makes it easier to remove. Carefully invert the pan onto a wire rack, gently tapping if needed, to release your beautiful Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake. Let it cool completely before glazing.

Step 8: Prepare Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and cranberry juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more cranberry juice for a thinner glaze if desired. This sweet mixture beautifully complements the tartness of the cake, making it a delightful finish.

Step 9: Decorate (Optional)
To add a festive touch, top the cooled cake with the cranberry glaze, allowing it to drizzle down the sides for an appealing look. If desired, garnish with sugared cranberries and rosemary sprigs for an elegant presentation. Your Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake is now a stunning centerpiece for any holiday gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist and ready to enjoy anytime!

Fridge: If you want to prolong freshness, refrigerate the cake for up to a week; make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent drying out.

Freezer: To freeze the Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, let the cake thaw in the fridge overnight. For a warm slice, microwave it on low for about 15-20 seconds.

Expert Tips for Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake

Grease Well: Make sure you thoroughly grease every inch of your Bundt pan with butter. This helps prevent sticking and ensures a beautiful cake release.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature eggs and buttermilk. This allows for better emulsification, resulting in a fluffier texture in your Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir until just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake; you want it light and fluffy!
Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake. It should come out clean. If you pull it out too early, the center may remain uncooked.
Cool Before Glazing: Let the cake cool completely before applying the glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting and ensures that it sets beautifully on your cake.

What to Serve with Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake

There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a festive gathering, where sweet aromas mingle with laughter and joy, and our Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake fuses perfectly into that scene.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: They lend a rich texture that contrasts beautifully with the lightness of the Bundt cake.
Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Cider: The warmth of the spices echoes the cake’s flavors, making each sip a cozy companion.
Cranberry Sauce: A twist on tradition, this sauce adds extra tart notes that accentuate the cake’s fruity goodness.
Buttery Dinner Rolls: These soft, pillowy rolls provide a satisfying complement to the cake, leaving a comforting aftermath of bites.
Rich Hot Chocolate: The sweetness of chocolate, combined with the cake’s tartness, creates a delightful dessert experience.
Sugared Cranberries: As a garnish on both the cake and the side, they enhance presentation and echo its flavor, bringing a festive touch.
Ginger Snap Cookies: Spicy and crunchy, these cookies harmonize with the cake’s spices, adding a delightful crunch.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop melting beside the cake introduces a creamy element that harmonizes with every flavorful slice.

These pairings not only amplify the magic of the Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake but also create a festive feast that will linger in the hearts of your loved ones.

Variations & Substitutions for Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake

Get ready to personalize your delightful Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake with these fun and easy variations that will tantalize your taste buds!

Berry Burst: Swap out cranberries for blueberries or raspberries for a refreshing twist. The bright colors and flavors will be a hit with your guests!
Citrus Zing: Use fresh orange or lemon juice instead of cranberry juice for the glaze. This will lend a zesty brightness that’s sure to awaken your senses!
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch and flavor. The nuttiness pairs beautifully with the tart cranberries.
Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a hint of heat. This unexpected twist will intrigue those who love a flavor adventure.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free version. Just ensure your baking powder is also gluten-free!
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace buttermilk with almond or oat milk mixed with a splash of apple cider vinegar. This keeps the cake moist and delightful without dairy.
Maple Twist: Experiment with maple syrup in place of half the granulated sugar. This will add a rich, warm flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.
Festive Sprinkles: For a touch of joy, sprinkle festive, edible glitter or colored sprinkles on top of your glaze before serving. This will make your cake even more inviting!

Enhance your holiday gatherings with these customizable options! If you’re in the mood for more festive flavors, check out my Maple Glazed Bacon for a savory side or indulge in my scrumptious Butterfinger Cheesecake for dessert!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake ahead of time is a fantastic way to free up your holiday schedule! You can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days; this not only saves time but also helps the spices develop their flavors. For the cake, you can bake it a day in advance and let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture—this way, it stays just as delicious. The cranberry glaze can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead; just refrigerate it until you’re ready to drizzle it on the cake. When it’s showtime, simply remove the wrap, glaze, and garnish for a stress-free, festive masterpiece!

Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe cranberries for this cake?
Absolutely! When choosing fresh cranberries, look for those that are firm and plump, with a vibrant red color. Avoid any that are soft or have dark spots, as these indicate overripeness. If opting for frozen cranberries, there’s no need to thaw them before using; just toss them into the batter as they will bake beautifully.

How should I store the Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake?
I recommend storing leftover slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain moisture. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. Just ensure it’s well-covered to keep that delicious flavor intact!

Can I freeze the Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your cake, first let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. This will prevent freezer burn and keep it fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, microwave a slice on low for 15-20 seconds.

What should I do if the cake sticks to the Bundt pan?
Oh no! In case your cake sticks, here are a few reasons and remedies: Make sure to thoroughly grease every nook of your Bundt pan with butter or cooking spray before adding the batter. If you still face trouble, try loosening the edges with a knife while gently tapping the pan to release the cake. Remember, inverting the cake 10 minutes after baking reduces the risk of sticking!

Are there any dietary considerations for the Cranberry Glaze Bundt Cake?
Very good question! If you have any allergens to consider, note that this cake contains gluten (from the flour), eggs, and dairy (from the butter and buttermilk). You can substitute the buttermilk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk mixed with a splash of lemon juice. For those avoiding refined sugars, consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute when sweetening, keeping the flavors in mind!