Indulge in the citrusy sweetness of an orange cake, perfect for any dessert lover. This recipe combines the bright flavors of oranges with a moist and tender cake texture, making it an ideal treat for gatherings or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. Follow along to learn how to create this delightful orange-infused dessert from scratch.
Ingredients for Orange Cake
Note: Adjust quantities based on your desired cake size.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
For Orange Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- Orange zest for garnish
How to Make Orange Cake
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract, until well combined.
- Incorporate Orange Flavor: Mix in fresh orange juice and orange zest until evenly distributed.
- Alternate Mixing: Gradually add the dry flour mixture and plain yogurt (or sour cream) to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Glaze (Optional): Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, prepare the orange glaze by mixing powdered sugar with orange juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake and garnish with orange zest.
- Serve: Slice and serve your delicious orange cake as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
About the Main Ingredients
- Oranges: Provide a fresh citrus flavor and natural sweetness to the cake.
- Butter and Eggs: Ensure a rich and moist texture in the cake.
- Yogurt or Sour Cream: Adds moisture and helps to tenderize the crumb.
- Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Leavening agents that help the cake rise.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake.
Enjoy the bright and refreshing flavors of this homemade orange cake, perfect for any occasion or as a delightful end to a meal. Whether you’re a citrus enthusiast or simply looking for a new dessert to try, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and deliciousness.
