Orange Cake Recipe: A Citrus Delight to Savor

There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked orange cake wafting through your kitchen. It’s like a warm hug from the inside, wrapped in citrusy goodness and topped with a sweet glaze that makes you feel like you’re dining in a sunlit café by the beach. Picture this: You slice into that golden layer, revealing a moist, fluffy texture that dances on your taste buds and leaves a lingering hint of fresh oranges. It’s not just cake; it’s an experience.

This orange cake recipe isn’t just for birthdays or fancy dinner parties. Nope! It’s for any day that ends in “y,” whether you’re celebrating a small win at work or simply trying to bribe your neighbor’s cat into liking you. Trust me, this cake has been the highlight of many a lazy Sunday afternoon, and I can’t wait for you to dive into its zesty delight.

Ingredients for orange cake recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• All-Purpose Flour: The base of our cake; choose high-quality flour for the best texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly; adjust depending on how sweet you want it.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy; make sure it’s fresh for optimal results.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors; don’t skip this!
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and moisture to your cake; let it soften before use.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the fluffiness; use large eggs for this recipe.
• Fresh Orange Juice: The star of our show! Use freshly squeezed juice for maximum flavor impact.
• Zest of an Orange: Adds an aromatic boost; zest before juicing for easier handling.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla complements the orange beautifully; opt for pure vanilla if possible.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make orange cake recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan so your delightful creation doesn’t stick around like unwanted guests.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This is crucial since you want those leavening agents evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Feel free to channel your inner rock star while mixing—music helps!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavor

Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Then stir in fresh orange juice, zest, and vanilla extract—trust me; this is where magic happens!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing unless you want an orange brick instead of a fluffy masterpiece.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Once out of the oven, let it cool on wire racks.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with icing or serve as is—the choice is yours! Enjoy every bite of this sunny creation that’s perfect for dessert or breakfast (I won’t tell if you don’t).

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven while you mix the batter. Combine your dry ingredients first, then add the wet ones, including that zesty orange juice. Pour it into a greased pan and bake until golden. It’s all about timing for that perfect rise.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to jazz up this orange cake recipe with chocolate chips for a sweet twist or add nuts for crunch. You can swap out part of the sugar with honey or maple syrup if you’re feeling adventurous. Your taste buds will thank you!

Storing & Reheating

To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months. Just thaw before serving!

Sharing my first attempt at this orange cake recipe always brings a smile. My friends declared it the “best thing since sliced bread,” and I basked in the glory like a proud parent showing off baby pictures!

FAQs

What ingredients do I need for the orange cake recipe?

To make a delicious orange cake, gather the following ingredients: all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, butter, eggs, baking powder, milk, and fresh oranges. For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed orange juice and zest. This combination creates a moist and flavorful cake that highlights the bright citrus notes. Make sure to have these essentials on hand before you start baking for a delightful treat.

How long does it take to bake the orange cake?

The baking time for an orange cake typically ranges from 25 to 35 minutes at 350°F (175°C). To ensure it’s perfectly baked, check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Keep an eye on your cake during the last few minutes to prevent overbaking. The aroma of citrus will fill your kitchen as it bakes, making the wait worthwhile.

Can I freeze leftover orange cake?

Yes, you can freeze leftover orange cake! Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help preserve its moisture and flavor. Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container or freezer bag for extra protection. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

How can I enhance the flavor of my orange cake?

To enhance the flavor of your orange cake recipe, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of almond extract for depth. You might also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Additionally, using freshly grated zest from organic oranges can elevate the citrus profile significantly. These small tweaks can make your cake even more delicious and memorable.

If you’re craving more sweet treats, explore these delightful dessert recipes for your next baking adventure.

Conclusion for orange cake recipe

In summary, this orange cake recipe is simple yet bursting with flavor. By using fresh oranges and quality ingredients, you’ll create a moist and delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Remember to pay attention to baking times and feel free to personalize flavors with extracts or spices. Whether served plain or topped with frosting, this cake is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Orange Cake

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Savor the bright, zesty flavors of this moist orange cake, made with fresh orange juice and zest for a refreshing treat that’s perfect any day of the week.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• Key Ingredients
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup fresh orange juice (about 2–3 oranges)
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Instructions for Preparation
2. 1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a round cake pan.
3. 2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
4. 3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
5. 4. Add Eggs and Flavor: Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the fresh orange juice, zest, and vanilla extract.
6. 5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. 6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool on wire racks before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
• Calories: 269
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 128mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 58mg