Updated on Desserts and Baking

Orange Cake Recipe

Orange cake served on a white plate.

Orange cake is a delightful and refreshing dessert that combines the citrusy zest of oranges with a moist and tender crumb. This Orange Cake Recipe ensures a soft, fluffy texture and a bright, tangy flavor that makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you are preparing a sweet treat for a gathering or simply craving a homemade citrusy dessert, this recipe will guide you through a simple yet delectable baking process.

One of the best things about this Orange Cake Recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a luscious glaze. The fresh orange juice and zest enhance the cake’s natural flavors, making it a delightful option for citrus lovers.

If you are looking for a light yet indulgent dessert, this Orange Cake Recipe is a must-try. With a soft, airy texture and a burst of citrus flavor in every bite, this cake pairs well with tea, coffee, or a dollop of whipped cream. Whether served as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert, this Orange Cake Recipe will impress your family and guests alike.

Preparation Time for Orange Cake Recipe

  • Preparation: 20 minutes
  • Baking: 35-40 minutes
  • Cooling: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: ~1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients for Orange Cake Recipe

For the Cake:

  • All-Purpose Flour – 2 cups (~240g)
  • Calories: ~880 calories
  • Granulated Sugar – 1 cup (~200g)
  • Calories: ~774 calories
  • Unsalted Butter (Softened) – ½ cup (~113g)
  • Calories: ~810 calories
  • Eggs – 3 large
  • Calories: ~210 calories
  • Fresh Orange Juice – ½ cup (~120ml)
  • Calories: ~56 calories
  • Orange Zest – 1 tablespoon
  • Calories: ~6 calories
  • Baking Powder – 1 ½ teaspoons
  • Calories: 0 calories
  • Baking Soda – ½ teaspoon
  • Calories: 0 calories
  • Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon
  • Calories: ~12 calories
  • Salt – ¼ teaspoon
  • Calories: 0 calories
  • Milk – ½ cup (~120ml)
  • Calories: ~61 calories

For the Orange Glaze (Optional):

  • Powdered Sugar – 1 cup (~120g)
  • Calories: ~480 calories
  • Fresh Orange Juice – 2 tablespoons (~30ml)
  • Calories: ~14 calories
  • Orange Zest – ½ teaspoon
  • Calories: ~3 calories

Instructions: How to Make Orange Cake Recipe

1: Prepare the Batter

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  5. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Mix in the orange zest, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract.
  6. Combine with Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

2: Bake the Cake

  1. Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
  2. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Cool: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before adding the glaze.

3: Prepare the Orange Glaze (Optional)

  1. Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
  2. Glaze the Cake: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to set before slicing.
Calorie Breakdown
  • Flour: ~880 calories
  • Sugar: ~774 calories
  • Butter: ~810 calories
  • Eggs: ~210 calories
  • Orange Juice: ~56 calories
  • Orange Zest: ~6 calories
  • Baking Powder & Soda: 0 calories
  • Vanilla Extract: ~12 calories
  • Salt: 0 calories
  • Milk: ~61 calories
  • Powdered Sugar (Glaze): ~480 calories
  • Orange Juice (Glaze): ~14 calories
  • Orange Zest (Glaze): ~3 calories
    Total Calories: ~3,326 calories (serves 8, ~416 calories per serving)
Why This Recipe Works
  • Bright & Citrusy Flavor: The combination of fresh orange juice and zest enhances the cake’s natural taste.
  • Soft & Moist Texture: The perfect balance of butter, milk, and eggs creates a light yet rich texture.
  • Easy & Quick: Simple ingredients and steps make this cake easy to prepare even for beginners.
  • Customizable: Can be enjoyed plain, with a glaze, or even layered with frosting.

FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice?
Fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled juice can work in a pinch.

How do I store the cake?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

What if I don’t have an orange?
Lemon juice and zest can be used as an alternative, but the flavor will be different.

Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

  • Perfectly Balanced Sweetness: The natural sweetness of oranges pairs beautifully with the soft cake texture.
  • Versatile & Crowd-Pleasing: Suitable for breakfast, tea-time, or dessert.
  • Easy to Make: Uses pantry staples and straightforward steps for a foolproof result.
  • Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether for a casual snack or a special event, this cake is always a hit.

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