Orange Cake
Introduction
Orange Cake is a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor to your table. It’s moist, sweet, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a casual afternoon snack. The combination of fresh orange juice and zest makes each bite refreshing and bright.
Why Make This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to whip up this Orange Cake! It’s easy to make, and you probably have most of the ingredients in your kitchen already. Plus, the soft, fluffy texture and sweet orange glaze will impress your family and friends. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
How to Make Orange Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
- Zest of 3 oranges
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons orange juice, freshly squeezed
- Zest of 1 orange (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy lifting.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt; set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs, vegetable oil, orange juice, and granulated sugar until well mixed. Then, add in the orange zest and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet mixture into the flour mixture and whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and 3 tablespoons of orange juice until smooth. Add more orange juice if the glaze is too thick.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then lift it out using the parchment paper.
- Drizzle the orange glaze over the warm cake and let it cool completely before slicing. Enjoy!
How to Serve Orange Cake
Serve your Orange Cake as a delightful sweet treat during dessert, or enjoy it with your afternoon tea or coffee for a refreshing experience. It’s great on its own, but pairing it with fresh fruit on the side adds a burst of flavor and a lovely presentation. For an extra touch, consider dusting it with powdered sugar or drizzling a light orange glaze on top!
How to Store Orange Cake
To keep your Orange Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay good for about 3-4 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.
Tips to Make Orange Cake
- Make sure to use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter; this will keep your cake light and fluffy.
- You can add a bit of orange zest into the glaze for extra flavor!
Variation
Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for a little crunch. You can also use lemon juice and zest instead of orange for a different twist!
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought orange juice?
A: Yes, but fresh orange juice will give you a better taste!
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Absolutely! Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Q: What can I serve with the Orange Cake?
A: It’s delightful on its own, but you can serve it with whipped cream, ice cream, or even yogurt for a tasty pairing!