Orange Cake

Indulge in the delightful taste of orange cake, where the bright and zesty flavor of fresh oranges meets a beautifully soft and moist texture. This cake is perfect for celebrations, afternoon teas, or simply as a treat to brighten your day. The aroma of citrus fills your kitchen, making this cake not just a dessert but a sensory experience. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring this delicious creation to life!

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup fresh orange juice
• Zest of 2 oranges
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes 8 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, followed by a cooking time of 40-45 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) of orange cake contains approximately 320 calories, 15g of fat, 45g of carbohydrates, and 3g of protein. This is a delightful treat to enjoy in moderation.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Stir in the orange juice and orange zest until combined.
5. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with orange slices before serving.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option. Additionally, coconut oil can replace butter for a dairy-free alternative. Experiment with different citrus fruits like lemon or lime for a twist on the classic flavor!

Serving and Pairings

This orange cake pairs wonderfully with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It also complements a cup of tea or coffee, making it an excellent choice for afternoon gatherings.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover orange cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy a warm treat.

Cooking Mistakes

• Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the texture.
• Opening the oven door too early can cause the cake to sink.
• Using stale baking powder can prevent the cake from rising.
• Not allowing the cake to cool before frosting can cause melting.

Helpful Tips

• Use fresh oranges for the best flavor.
• Let the cake cool completely before slicing.
• Experiment with adding poppy seeds for added texture.
• Try a glaze made from orange juice and powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?

While fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, bottled juice can be used in a pinch. Just ensure it’s 100% orange juice without added sugars.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached. Additionally, the edges should start to pull away from the sides of the pan.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Store it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature until ready to serve. Frost it just before serving for best results.

What can I use instead of eggs?

You can replace each egg with ¼ cup of applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan option.

How should I store leftover cake?

Leftover orange cake should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze in slices.

Conclusion

This orange cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of citrus flavor that brings joy to any occasion. With its moist texture and vibrant taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful treat!

Orange Cake

Indulge in this delightful orange cake, bursting with citrus flavor and perfect for any occasion.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: orange cake, citrus dessert, baking, sweet treats

Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes minutes

Total Time: 1 hour hour 5 minutes minutes

Servings: 8 servings

Calories: 320kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup fresh orange juice
• Zest of 2 oranges
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
• In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
• Stir in the orange juice and orange zest until combined.
• In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
• Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
• Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Dust with powdered sugar and garnish with orange slices before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 1g