Name: Perfected Orange Bundt Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons (28g) cream cheese, softened (I used 4 squares of Kiri); 3/4 cup (85g) powdered sugar; 1 to 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice; 1 1/2 (18g) tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 1/3 cup (160g) all purpose flour (preferably weighed for accurate results)*; 3 tablespoons (20g) cornstarch*; 1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup (114g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons (175g) granulated sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons (3g) orange zest (may be increased for a stronger orange flavor); 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, but recommended); 2 large eggs (100g), at room temperature; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (or 1 teaspoon if using imitation vanilla flavoring); 1/4 cup (57g) sour cream*, at room temperature; 1/2 cup (118ml) freshly squeezed orange juice (may be increased to 3/4 cup (177ml) for a stronger orange flavor. Omit the sour cream if doing so)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 208 reviews

If you are on a quest for a cake that feels like sunshine on your plate, this Perfected Orange Bundt Cake Recipe is precisely what you need. Every slice bursts with bright, fresh orange flavor balanced beautifully by a tender crumb and a luscious cream cheese glaze. This cake isn’t just dessert; it’s a celebration of citrusy goodness that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. The harmony of zesty orange, gentle lemon hints, and the moist, fluffy texture make this bundt cake utterly irresistible and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A golden orange Bundt cake sits on a white cake stand with scalloped edges, topped with a thick layer of smooth white icing that drips down the sides in uneven streams. Thin strips of bright orange peel rest on top of the icing as decoration. One slice of the cake is removed, showing the soft and moist textured inside that is a vibrant yellow-orange color. The slice with a bit of icing is placed on a white plate with a light blue interior, garnished with a small orange peel curl. A halved orange with deep orange flesh and green leaves leans against the cake stand. The background and surface are a clean white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is step one to creating a flawless cake. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s adding moisture, lifting the batter, or delivering that vibrant burst of orange flavor we all crave.

Cream cheese (2 tablespoons, softened): Adds richness and tang, perfect for the glaze that crowns this cake.
Powdered sugar (3/4 cup): Ensures a silky-smooth sweetness in the glaze with no grit.
Heavy cream (1 to 2 tablespoons): Adjusts the glaze to a pourable, luscious consistency.
Freshly squeezed orange juice (2 tablespoons plus 1/2 cup): The heart of the cake’s flavor, bringing fresh citrus brightness.
Granulated sugar (1 1/2 tablespoons plus 3/4 cup and 2 tablespoons): Essential for sweetness and that delicate caramelized crust.
All-purpose flour (1 1/3 cups): The cake’s foundation, best weighed for accuracy and perfect texture.
Cornstarch (3 tablespoons): Lightens the crumb and ensures the cake stays tender.
Baking powder (1 1/2 teaspoons): Provides the gentle lift needed for a tender crumb.
Baking soda (1/4 teaspoon): Works alongside baking powder to give a balanced rise.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors.
Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Brings moisture, richness, and that perfect crumb texture.
Orange zest (1 1/2 teaspoons): Packs a fragrant punch of orange aroma and flavor.
Lemon zest (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adds a subtle complexity that brightens the overall taste.
Large eggs (2, room temperature): Bind the ingredients and provide structure.
Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Rounds out the citrus notes with a warm, sweet base.
Sour cream (1/4 cup, room temperature): Adds moisture and a tangy undertone that keeps the cake wonderfully soft.

How to Make Perfected Orange Bundt Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by adjusting your oven rack to the lower middle position and preheat to 350°F (180°C). A well-greased and floured 6-cup bundt pan ensures your cake won’t stick and will come out perfectly shaped. You can also use non-stick cooking spray for the easiest release.

Step 2: Whisk Together Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisking them ahead ensures even distribution of leavening agents, which is important for a uniformly risen cake with no pockets of baking soda.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar with Zests

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy. Slowly add in sugar and then both orange and lemon zest. Whip on medium-high for 4-5 minutes until the mixture lightens in color and turns fluffy. This step is magic: it traps air in the batter, making the final cake so soft and airy.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs, Vanilla, and Sour Cream

Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each, then mix in vanilla extract and sour cream. This combination adds richness and moisture while maintaining a tender texture — the secret for that melt-in-your-mouth crumb.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Orange Juice

On the lowest mixer speed, add one-third of the dry ingredients, then half the fresh orange juice. Repeat with another third of dry ingredients, the rest of the orange juice, and finish with the final third of dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to keep the batter light. Overmixing can toughen the cake, so a gentle hand is key.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cake’s center springs back to a gentle touch and a wooden skewer comes out mostly clean. Cool the cake slightly in the pan while preparing the syrup.

Step 7: Make and Brush with Orange Syrup

Heat orange juice and granulated sugar in a saucepan over low heat until the sugar dissolves and mixture simmers. Poke small holes all over the still-warm cake with a skewer, then brush the syrup over it lovingly. This adds a glossy finish and extra moistness that turns the cake from lovely to exceptional.

Step 8: Prepare Cream Cheese Glaze

Whisk softened cream cheese until smooth, then add powdered sugar and enough heavy cream to reach a thick but pourable glaze. Drizzle generously over the cooled cake, letting it settle into every curve for the ultimate indulgence.

Step 9: Garnish and Slice

Top your masterpiece with delicate strands of orange peel if you like, slice generously, and get ready for compliments. This is truly the Perfected Orange Bundt Cake Recipe at its most stunning.

How to Serve Perfected Orange Bundt Cake Recipe

A golden yellow bundt cake with a smooth, moist texture is shown, standing on a tall white cake stand with a scalloped edge. The cake has a white glaze drizzled over the top, flowing down the ridges of the bundt shape. One slice is lifted by a spatula, revealing the dense crumb inside. The top of the cake and the slice are each decorated with thin orange peel curls. Bright green leaves and half of a fresh orange rest beside the cake on the stand. The background is white marbled texture with a soft blue gradient behind the cake. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like fresh orange zest strips or thin candied orange peel add an elegant flair that highlights the cake’s citrus charm. A dusting of powdered sugar or a few fresh mint leaves can also enhance presentation without overpowering the flavors.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a dollop of vanilla yogurt to balance its sweetness. For a breakfast twist, serve with fresh berries or a citrus salad to keep those bright flavors going strong.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices with a scoop of orange or cinnamon ice cream on the side for a delightful dessert upgrade. Or plate small cubes with a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce for a creative twist that’s great for parties and gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Perfected Orange Bundt Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This preserves the moisture and freshness perfectly, so you can enjoy it fresh and delicious all week.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving, and refresh the glaze or syrup as needed to bring back that freshly baked taste.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven wrapped loosely in foil. This helps revive the cake’s tender crumb and releases the glorious orange aroma right before serving.

FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of freshly squeezed?

While fresh orange juice offers the brightest, most vibrant flavor essential to this cake, you can use bottled juice in a pinch. Just make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sugars to maintain the proper sweetness balance.

What type of bundt pan works best for this recipe?

A 6-cup bundt pan with a non-stick surface or well-greased metal pan is ideal. Silicone pans can sometimes produce a less defined shape, so traditional metal pans often yield a prettier finish.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. The texture may vary slightly but the flavors will still shine through beautifully.

Is it necessary to use cornstarch in the recipe?

Cornstarch helps lighten the cake’s texture by softening the gluten in the flour. Omitting it may result in a denser cake, so it’s recommended to include it for that signature tender crumb.

Can I make the cake a day ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld. Store it covered at room temperature and add the glaze just before serving to keep it fresh and glossy.

Final Thoughts

The Perfected Orange Bundt Cake Recipe is one of those charming recipes that feels like a warm hug, combining simplicity with incredible flavor. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this cake will not disappoint. The vibrant citrus notes, tender crumb, and luscious glaze make every bite a delight. I encourage you to give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your kitchen, too!