Orange Cake Recipe

There’s something truly delightful about a homemade cake, and when that cake is infused with the zesty brightness of fresh oranges, it takes dessert to a whole new level. This Moist and Flavorful Orange Cake is the perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon with a cup of tea. With its tender crumb and vibrant citrus flavor, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

The combination of fresh orange juice and zest in this recipe imparts a lovely tanginess that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the cake. The addition of a simple orange glaze enhances the flavor and adds a beautiful glossy finish. This recipe is straightforward to prepare and requires basic ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. So, let’s dive into making this delicious orange cake that will impress your family and friends alike!

Ingredients for Moist and Flavorful Orange Cake

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2-3 oranges)
• 2 tablespoons orange zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• For the Orange Glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice

How to Make Moist and Flavorful Orange Cake

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or one 13×9 inch pan. If you prefer, you can line the pans with parchment paper for added ease in removing the cakes.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which helps the cake rise evenly.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed. Properly creaming the butter and sugar is crucial for a light and airy cake texture.
4. Add the Eggs: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to incorporate the eggs fully into the batter and ensures that the mixture is well-emulsified.
5. Incorporate the Wet Ingredients: Mix in the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract until well combined. The orange juice and zest are what give the cake its vibrant citrus flavor, so be sure to use fresh oranges for the best results.
6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
7. Pour the Batter into Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. If using a single pan, simply pour all the batter in and smooth the top.
8. Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes if using round pans, or 35-40 minutes if using a 13×9 inch pan. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
10. Prepare the Orange Glaze: While the cake is cooling, prepare the orange glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and orange juice in a small bowl. Adjust the consistency by adding more orange juice or powdered sugar as needed. The glaze should be thick but pourable.
11. Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the orange glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

About the Main Ingredients

• All-Purpose Flour: This is the foundation of the cake and provides the structure. It’s essential to measure the flour accurately to avoid a dense cake.
• Butter: Provides richness and moisture. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth batter.
• Sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps in achieving a tender crumb. Granulated sugar is used for its ability to cream well with butter.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure. They also contribute to the cake’s moisture.
• Orange Juice and Zest: These are the key ingredients that give the cake its fresh, tangy flavor. Freshly squeezed juice and zest provide the best flavor.
• Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang, which complements the orange flavor. It also reacts with the baking soda to help the cake rise.
• Powdered Sugar: Used in the glaze to add sweetness and a smooth consistency.

This Moist and Flavorful Orange Cake is a delightful treat that combines the best of citrus flavor with a tender crumb. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just for fun, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every slice of this delicious cake with a smile!