Irresistible Orange Cake Recipe: A Citrus Delight Awaits

There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of fresh orange cake wafting through your kitchen. Imagine biting into a slice where the zesty sweetness dances on your tongue, bringing sunshine to even the rainiest of days. The moment you slice into this fluffy delight, you’re greeted by a burst of citrusy goodness that has the power to turn any boring afternoon into a vibrant celebration.

Now, let me share a little secret: this orange cake recipe isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. Picture yourself surrounded by family and friends during a sunny afternoon barbecue or celebrating a birthday with laughter and joy. Each bite is like a warm hug from Grandma, reminding you of those carefree summer days spent playing outside until dusk. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this flavor explosion!

I still remember the first time I baked this incredible orange cake for my friend’s birthday party—everyone was raving about it!

Essential Ingredients

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

• All-Purpose Flour: This forms the backbone of your cake; sift it for lightness and fluffiness.

• Baking Powder: Essential for that perfect rise; make sure it’s fresh for best results.

• Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cake beautifully; consider using organic for richer flavor.

• Butter: Use unsalted butter at room temperature for easy mixing and rich taste.

• Fresh Oranges: They bring the zesty flavor; choose juicy ones with smooth skin for maximum juiciness.

• Eggs: These provide structure; use large eggs at room temperature for ideal mixing.

• Milk: Whole milk lends moisture; feel free to substitute almond or oat milk if desired.

• Vanilla Extract: A splash adds warmth and depth; opt for real vanilla for best flavor.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan to ensure easy release later.

Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and baking powder until well combined. This step is crucial for an even texture.

Cream butter and sugar: In another bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. It should look pale and dreamy—this means it’s perfectly whipped!

Add eggs: Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Your mixture should be smooth without any lumps.

Incorporate oranges: Zest two oranges into your batter before squeezing in their juice. The combination creates an aromatic explosion that will have everyone swooning.

Combine wet and dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while alternating with milk. Mix gently but thoroughly until just combined—no over-mixing here!

Pour and bake: Pour batter into your prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly. Bake in preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool down: Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Frost if desired: You can frost with cream cheese icing or enjoy it plain with some powdered sugar dusted on top—both options are deliciously tempting!

Serve and enjoy: Slice up your masterpiece, serve it on pretty plates, grab some forks, and dig in! Get ready to wow your friends with this fantastic orange cake recipe!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by zesting and juicing the oranges before mixing your dry ingredients to keep everything fresh and vibrant. Cream the butter and sugar well to create a fluffy texture that holds air for a light cake.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out some of the flour for almond flour for added nuttiness or toss in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise. You can even experiment with different citrus fruits like lemons or limes!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover orange cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To refresh it, pop it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.

Baking this orange cake reminds me of my grandma who always had a slice ready after school. Her secret ingredient? A pinch of love and too much laughter over spilled flour!

FAQ

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?

While bottled juice works, fresh juice gives a brighter flavor that’s hard to beat.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substituting all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend yields great results without compromising taste.

What’s the best way to frost my orange cake?

A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh orange juice adds sweetness without overpowering the citrus flavor.

Print

Orange Cake

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Orange cake is a delightful dessert that brightens any occasion with its vibrant citrus flavor and fluffy texture. This easy-to-follow recipe combines fresh oranges, creamy butter, and simple pantry staples to create a moist and aromatic cake. Perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or an everyday treat, this orange cake will leave your taste buds dancing and your friends asking for seconds.

• Author: Logan Reed
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• Zest and juice of 2 fresh oranges
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time; then mix in the orange zest and juice.
5. Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, alternating with milk until just combined.
6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to wire racks.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
• Calories: 289
• Sugar: 19g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg