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As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, and the air becomes crisp with the promise of cooler days, there’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of a freshly baked cake wafting through the kitchen. The Sunset Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake embodies the essence of fall and winter gatherings, making it the perfect centerpiece for your seasonal celebrations. This cake is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a visual delight, with its rich orange hue and speckled cranberries reminiscent of a breathtaking sunset.

Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake

Embrace the cozy vibes of fall with this Sunset Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake recipe. Infused with tart cranberries and zesty orange, this cake is a stunning centerpiece for any gathering. Learn how to achieve a perfectly moist texture with essential ingredients like butter, eggs, and fresh citrus, and discover tips for baking success. Each slice offers a delightful blend of sweet and tart, making it the perfect pairing for tea or coffee during chilly days. Happy baking!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

3 large eggs, at room temperature

Zest of 2 medium oranges

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/2 cup fresh orange juice

1 1/2 cups fresh cranberries (or thawed frozen cranberries)

1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

For the Orange Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice

Zest of 1 orange

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan thoroughly, or use a non-stick baking spray for easy release.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using). Set the bowl aside to allow the dry ingredients to blend.

      Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

        Add Eggs and Flavor: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well combined before adding the next. After the eggs, gently mix in the orange zest and vanilla extract for a burst of flavor.

          Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the bowl, alternating with the fresh orange juice. Start and end with the dry mixture, mixing until just combined to avoid overmixing.

            Fold in Cranberries and Nuts: Carefully fold in the fresh cranberries and chopped nuts (if using) with a spatula, making sure to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.

              Pour into Bundt Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface.

                Bake: Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil to avoid burning.

                  Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes. Then, gently invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely.

                    Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of fresh orange juice, and orange zest. Stir until the mixture is smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add additional orange juice one teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

                      Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the orange glaze generously over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a beautiful finish.

                        Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake into 12 pieces and serve with a steaming cup of tea or coffee. Delight in the harmonious flavors of tart cranberry and zesty orange!

                          Prep Time | Total Time | Servings: 20 min | 1 hr 20 min | 12 slices

                            Presentation Tips: For an extra touch, garnish the cake with additional orange zest and fresh cranberries on top before serving, adding both color and texture.