Creamy Raspberry Swirl Bundt Cake

 

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs (at room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk (at room temperature)

For the Raspberry Swirl:

• 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries (thawed if frozen)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk (or heavy cream)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• White chocolate shavings (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Raspberry Swirl

1. Cook the Raspberries:

   • In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the raspberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring gently until the raspberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly.

2. Cool the Mixture:

   • Remove from heat and let it cool completely. You can mash the raspberries for a smoother consistency or leave some chunks for texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

3. Preheat Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or use a non-stick baking spray.

4. Mix Dry Ingredients:

   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

5. Cream Butter and Sugar:

   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).

6. Add Eggs and Vanilla:

   • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.

7. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

8. Layer the Batter:

   • Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared bundt pan. Spread it evenly.

9. Add Raspberry Swirl:

   • Spoon the cooled raspberry mixture over the batter, spreading it gently but leaving some space at the edges to avoid touching the pan directly.

10. Top with Remaining Batter:

    • Carefully spoon the remaining cake batter over the raspberry layer, smoothing it out to cover completely.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

11. Bake:

    • Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

12. Cool the Cake:

    • Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Frosting

13. Make the Frosting:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.

Step 6: Frost and Garnish

14. Frost the Cake:

    • Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the frosting over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.

15. Garnish:

    • If desired, sprinkle white chocolate shavings on top for an extra touch.

Step 7: Serve

16. Slice and Enjoy:
    • Slice the cake into generous pieces and serve. This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.

Tips and Variations

• Fruit Variations: You can substitute raspberries with other berries like blueberries or strawberries for a different flavor.
• Extra Moisture: For an even moister cake, consider adding a tablespoon of sour cream to the batter.
• Make Ahead: The cake can be baked a day in advance. Store it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

The Creamy Raspberry Swirl Bundt Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the richness of a buttery cake with the tartness of raspberries. Its beautiful swirl pattern and creamy frosting make it perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to family gatherings. Enjoy making this delicious treat, and feel free to ask if you have any questions or need more recipes!