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
- 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.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Mix in the orange zest, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract.
- 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
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
- 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.
- 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)
- Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
- 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.