There’s something undeniably uplifting about the bright scent of fresh oranges wafting through the kitchen. As the citrus aroma fills the air, it instantly lifts my spirits and sets the perfect mood for baking. This Zesty Orange Loaf Cake is my go-to recipe when I crave a sweet yet refreshing treat that captures the essence of sunshine in every slice. Moist, tender, and topped with a sweet orange glaze, this delightful cake combines the simplicity of everyday ingredients with a burst of vibrant flavor.
Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy afternoon tea, this cake not only satisfies a sweet tooth but also brings a nourishing touch with its vitamin C boost. Whether you’re serving it at brunch or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of coffee, each bite promises to brighten your day. Join me in making this easy orange cake that will surely become a beloved addition to your dessert repertoire!
Why is this Orange Cake a must-try?
Unforgettable Flavor: This orange cake bursts with vibrant citrus notes that can elevate any occasion.
Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be baking like a pro in no time.
Moist Texture: Thanks to the yogurt, it remains incredibly tender and enjoyable, slice after slice.
Nutrient-Packed: Infused with vitamin C, it’s a sweet treat that nourishes as it delights.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for brunches or cozy afternoons with friends, everyone will be asking for seconds!
Transform your dessert game with this refreshing treat that brings joy to your table—try it today!
Orange Cake Ingredients
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For the Cake
• 300 g. Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and moisture; try coconut sugar for deeper flavor.
• 4 Tbsp. Finely Grated Orange Zest (divided) – Enhances citrus flavor; substitute with lemon or lime zest for a new twist.
• 3/4 cup Unsalted Butter (room temperature) – Adds richness and moisture; vegetable oil works in a dairy-free version.
• 3 Large Eggs (room temperature) – Binds ingredients together; use flax eggs for a vegan option.
• 2 tsp. Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• 1/2 tsp. Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; table salt can substitute in equal amounts.
• 270 g. All-Purpose Flour (divided) – Forms the structure; opt for whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• 1/2 cup Plain Unsweetened Yogurt – Adds moisture and tang; Greek yogurt or sour cream are perfect alternatives.
• 5 Tbsp. Fresh Orange Juice (divided) – Provides moisture and citrus flavor; any citrus juice can work as a substitute. -
For the Glaze
• 120 g. Confectioners’ Sugar – Adds sweetness for the glaze; consider powdered erythritol for a sugar-free option.
This orange cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of sunshine in every bite—get ready to impress your loved ones!
How to Make Orange Cake
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Prep Sugar: Begin by rubbing the finely grated orange zest into the granulated sugar. This process releases the oils, infusing the sugar with vibrant citrus flavor and making your cake extra zesty.
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Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and the flavored sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. This adds air, ensuring a tender cake texture.
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Incorporate Eggs: Add the room temperature eggs one at a time into the creamed mixture. Mix well after each addition until fully incorporated, creating a lovely creamy consistency.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. This step evenly distributes the leavening agent and ensures your cake rises beautifully.
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Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture while alternating with the yogurt and fresh orange juice. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix—this will keep your cake light and airy.
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Bake: Pour the batter into a greased light-colored metal loaf pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 55 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool & Glaze: Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled, drizzle on the sweet orange glaze for that perfect finishing touch.
Optional: Top with additional orange zest or serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Orange Cake
Room Temperature: Store the orange cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keeping it covered prevents it from drying out, ensuring moist, delicious slices.
Fridge: If you won’t be enjoying the cake within three days, refrigerate it. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped to maintain freshness, and bring it back to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the orange cake wrapped in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy that fresh-baked taste, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will revive the cake’s moistness while keeping the delightful citrus flavor intact.
Orange Cake Variations
Embrace your creativity and make this orange cake uniquely yours!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegetable oil for a deliciously dairy-free alternative.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs, mixing 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water; let it sit until thickened.
- Citrus Burst: Swap out orange zest and juice for lemon or grapefruit for a refreshing twist that brightens the flavor profile.
- Nutty Delight: Fold in 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or almonds for a delightful crunch that complements the moist cake.
- Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with citrus.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the glaze for an indulgent combination of chocolate and orange that’s utterly irresistible.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate 1/2 cup of blueberries or raspberries to the batter for a burst of color and flavor that’s sure to impress.
- Poppy Seed Twist: Add 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds for a unique texture that makes each slice even more delightful.
Let your imagination soar as you try these variations, turning a simple orange cake into a memorable creation!
Expert Tips for Perfect Orange Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and aeration, resulting in a lighter texture for your orange cake.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so stop as soon as you no longer see dry flour.
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Use a Light Pan: Choosing a light-colored metal loaf pan helps prevent over-browning of the edges, ensuring an even bake for your orange cake.
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Monitor Baking Time: Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time. Oven temperatures can vary, so a toothpick test is your best friend.
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Flavor Boost: For an added flavor burst, fold in some poppy seeds or chopped nuts like walnuts into the batter before baking—delicious variations to enhance your orange cake!
What to Serve with Orange Cake?
When you bring this zesty delight to the table, an extra touch can elevate your dessert experience even more.
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Fresh Berries: A mix of raspberries and blueberries adds vibrant color and a tangy contrast, highlighting the orange flavor beautifully.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream provides a rich creaminess that complements the citrusy sweetness of the cake.
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Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea creates a soothing pairing—perfect for a cozy afternoon or evening bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, sweet notes of vanilla ice cream create a heavenly balance with the bright flavors of the orange cake, making each bite a delight.
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Mint Sprigs: Adding fresh mint leaves not only enhances the aesthetics but also introduces refreshing hints, making each forkful memorable.
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Orange Segments: Juicy orange segments echo the cake’s flavor and vitality, making for an inviting and visually appealing garnish.
Let these pairings transform your orange cake into a vibrant occasion, perfect for sharing laughter and love around the table!
Make Ahead Options
This zesty orange loaf cake is perfect for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to enjoy delicious homemade dessert with minimal fuss. You can bake the cake up to 24 hours in advance—just be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist. For the best flavor and texture, store the unglazed cake at room temperature. When you’re ready to serve, simply glaze the cake just before slicing to ensure that it looks fresh and inviting. With these easy make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delightful treat waiting for you, making your dessert planning effortless!
Orange Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my oranges are ripe?
Look for firm oranges that are heavy for their size; this indicates juiciness. A bright, vibrant skin with little to no dark spots is ideal. If you find any blemishes or softness, it may not be the best choice for your zesty orange loaf cake.
How should I store my orange cake?
You can store your orange cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate it in an airtight container, but remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Can I freeze the orange cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your orange cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then let it sit at room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I do if my orange cake is too dry?
If your orange cake comes out dry, it may have been overbaked or you’ve used too much flour. To remedy this, brush it lightly with a mix of fresh orange juice and a bit of sugar for additional moisture. Serving it with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream can also help enhance the overall enjoyment!
Is this orange cake suitable for people with allergies?
The recipe contains eggs, dairy (butter and yogurt), and gluten (flour), so it’s not suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients. However, substitutions like flax eggs for a vegan option and dairy-free yogurt can help. Always check labels if you’re cooking for anyone with allergies!
Irresistible Orange Cake That Brightens Your Day
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- - Loaf pan
- Whisk
- Oven
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 300 g Granulated Sugar Try coconut sugar for deeper flavor.
- 4 Tbsp Finely Grated Orange Zest Substitute with lemon or lime zest for a new twist.
- 3/4 cup Unsalted Butter Use room temperature.
- 3 Large Eggs Use room temperature.
- 2 tsp Baking Powder Ensure it's fresh for best results.
- 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt Table salt can substitute in equal amounts.
- 270 g All-Purpose Flour Opt for whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- 1/2 cup Plain Unsweetened Yogurt Greek yogurt or sour cream are perfect alternatives.
- 5 Tbsp Fresh Orange Juice Any citrus juice can work as a substitute.
For the Glaze
- 120 g Confectioners’ Sugar Consider powdered erythritol for a sugar-free option.
Instructions
How to Make Orange Cake
- Begin by rubbing the finely grated orange zest into the granulated sugar.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and the flavored sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the room temperature eggs one at a time into the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture while alternating with the yogurt and fresh orange juice.
- Pour the batter into a greased light-colored metal loaf pan and bake at 350°F for about 55 minutes.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack and drizzling with glaze.