Name: Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake with Chocolate Ganache Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 eggs; 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar; 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 3/4 cup heavy cream (36% fat); Zest of 2 oranges; Pinch of salt; 1/4 tsp cinnamon; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 tbsp Grand Marnier

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 13 reviews

If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly balances tangy, sweet, and rich flavors, the Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake with Chocolate Ganache Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful cake combines the bright zestiness of oranges with the tart pop of dried cranberries, all crowned with a luscious, silky chocolate ganache that you simply can’t resist. It’s a show-stopping dessert that feels both festive and comforting, making every slice a little moment of joy you’ll want to share with everyone you love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with various baking ingredients neatly arranged. At the top are five small clear bowls containing baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and baking soda, each labeled accordingly. Below them, on the left, is a small white dish with a stick of butter, and nearby is a large clear bowl filled with white sugar. Next to the sugar bowl is a white bowl filled with dark red dried cranberries. To the right of the cranberries are four brown eggs placed on the marble surface. A small carton of heavy whipping cream with a yellow cap sits beside the eggs. On the far right, a large clear bowl holds white flour. At the bottom left, two whole bright orange oranges add a splash of color to the layout. The items are spaced out evenly, all clearly visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a key role, coming together to create a harmonious blend of texture and taste. The simplicity of these pantry staples makes this cake approachable but absolutely unforgettable.

Eggs: Five large eggs give the cake its light, airy texture and help everything bind perfectly.
Granulated sugar: A cup and a half adds the right amount of sweetness to complement the tart cranberries and bright orange zest.
Unsalted butter: Six tablespoons melt into the batter, lending a rich flavor and tender crumb.
Heavy cream (36%): Three-quarters of a cup adds moisture and a silky texture to the cake batter.
Orange zest: Zest of two oranges infuses the whole cake with fresh citrus aroma and vibrant flavor.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
Cinnamon: Just a quarter teaspoon adds warmth and subtle spice that pairs beautifully with the cranberries.
Baking powder: One and a half teaspoons ensure the cake rises nicely, contributing to a fluffy texture.
Baking soda: Half a teaspoon helps with the cake’s rise and tender crumb.
Dried cranberries: Half a cup provides bursts of tartness and a chewy contrast.
All-purpose flour: One and a half cups provide structure for the cake, allowing it to hold its bundt shape perfectly.
Chocolate chips: One cup to create a decadent ganache starter that’s both rich and silky.
Heavy whipping cream: Half a cup, poured over chocolate chips, transforms them into a luscious ganache.
Grand Marnier: Two tablespoons add a sophisticated hint of orange liqueur to the ganache, elevating the flavor.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake with Chocolate Ganache Recipe

Step 1: Whip Eggs and Sugar

Start by combining five eggs in a large bowl and using an electric mixer to beat them until they become foamy and light. This aeration is what gives your bundt cake a lovely, airy crumb. Next, gradually add one and a half cups of granulated sugar while continuing to beat at high speed for about a minute. This step ensures your cake will be sweet but not overpowering, with just the right texture.

Step 2: Add Orange Zest and Butter

Zest two fresh oranges directly into the bowl; the aromatic oils in the zest bring a fresh and vibrant citrus note to the cake that is truly mouthwatering. Then, add six tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and gently mix until just combined. This helps distribute the rich buttery flavor evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Incorporate Heavy Cream

Lightly whisk in three-quarters of a cup of heavy cream to add moisture and a slight creaminess to the cake. This contributes to its tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 4: Prepare Dry Ingredients and Fold into Wet Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together a pinch of salt, a quarter teaspoon of cinnamon, one and a half teaspoons of baking powder, half a teaspoon of baking soda, and one and a half cups of all-purpose flour. Sift these dry ingredients into the wet mixture and fold gently with a whisk to avoid deflating the batter. This careful folding helps maintain the cake’s fluffiness while ensuring all ingredients are well combined.

Step 5: Pour Batter and Add Cranberries

Prepare a bundt pan by spraying the inside with nonstick baking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the batter evenly into the pan. Next, sprinkle half a cup of dried cranberries over the top and press a few gently into the batter with a spatula. These little bursts of tartness will slightly sink as the cake bakes, giving delightful pockets of flavor throughout.

Step 6: Bake at 350°F for 40 Minutes

Place the bundt pan in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for approximately 40 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs. The aroma at this stage should already have your kitchen feeling warm and inviting.

Step 7: Prepare Chocolate Ganache

While the cake cools, assemble the ganache by placing one cup of chocolate chips in a bowl. Pour half a cup of hot heavy whipping cream over the chips along with two tablespoons of Grand Marnier. Let the mixture sit for a minute to soften, then stir until the ganache is luxuriously smooth and glossy. This ganache will add a heavenly silky layer on top of the cake, blending beautifully with the fruity flavors.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve

Once the cake is completely cooled, gently pour the chocolate ganache over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides. This finishing touch not only ups the decadence factor but also makes the dessert look irresistible. Now your Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake with Chocolate Ganache Recipe is ready to wow!

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake with Chocolate Ganache Recipe

A single round bundt cake with a golden-brown color sitting on a silver wire cooling rack, which is placed on a white marbled surface. The cake has a scalloped edge with deep ridges, and small dark chocolate chips and lighter nut pieces are visible evenly spread throughout the cake. The lighting highlights the cake's soft, slightly textured surface, and the cake sits centered on the rack showing its full shape from above. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an elegant finish, consider sprinkling chopped toasted pecans or a few fresh cranberries on top of the ganache. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a few sprigs of fresh mint can also add a beautiful contrast and a touch of freshness.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a brunch or afternoon tea, serve with a hot cup of Earl Grey or a bright citrusy tea to echo the orange notes.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, slice the cake and serve each piece with a drizzle of extra Grand Marnier or a spoonful of berry compote on the side. You can also plate it alongside candied orange peels for a stunning presentation that highlights the cake’s vibrant citrus character.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it at room temperature for up to 2 days to preserve freshness. Keep in mind that the chocolate ganache may soften slightly if left out too long but will still taste delightful.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, ensuring it is well sealed to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive that freshly baked warmth. Avoid overheating to keep the ganache smooth and the cake tender.

FAQs

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries can be quite tart and release more moisture than dried ones, which might affect the cake’s texture. If you use fresh, consider lightly tossing them in flour before adding to the batter to help them stay suspended and prevent sinking.

Is there a substitute for Grand Marnier in the ganache?

If you don’t have Grand Marnier, you can substitute with another orange liqueur like Cointreau or even a teaspoon of orange extract for a non-alcoholic option. It’s the citrus note that’s important, so feel free to get creative!

How do I know when the cake is perfectly baked?

The most reliable way is to insert a toothpick into the cake’s center. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. The top should also spring back slightly when pressed.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking, but make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to help maintain the structure. Adjust baking times as needed and keep an eye on the cake’s rise.

What’s the best way to get cranberries evenly distributed?

Tossing dried cranberries in a small amount of flour before folding them into the batter helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom and promotes an even distribution throughout the cake.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Cranberry Orange Bundt Cake with Chocolate Ganache Recipe. It’s the kind of dessert that brightens up any occasion with its vibrant flavors and comforting texture. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering or wanting to impress friends with something a little different, this cake is sure to bring smiles and requests for seconds. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!