The smell of freshly baked orange cake brings back memories of my childhood. It was a favorite at family gatherings and special occasions. The bright flavor of orange always made me happy.
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If you want a simple yet tasty homemade treat, try this orange cake recipe. It’s moist and full of fresh orange zest. You can make it as a loaf, bundt, or single layer. It’s perfect for any event.
Get ready for a sweet and tangy treat in every bite. With a few ingredients and easy steps, you’ll make a cake everyone will love. Let’s explore how to make this beloved dessert.
The Story Behind This Classic Orange Dessert
The orange-flavored cake you’re about to bake has a rich history. It comes from a cherished childhood memory of the recipe creator’s mother. She learned it from a beloved neighbor named Doris.
Doris was like a second mother. Her simple yet delectable orange cake became a staple in their household. It was often served on birthdays and other special occasions.
Origins and Family Traditions
The vintage recipe for this orange flavored cake was first featured in a 1975 community church cookbook. It had 164 pages of homestyle recipes from different eras. The cake’s main ingredients, including vegan butter, orange zest, orange juice, and dates, have stood the test of time.
These ingredients create a timeless flavor profile. It has been passed down through generations.
Why Orange Cake Became a Favorite
The appeal of this zesty cake lies in its minimal effort and maximum flavor. The baking time for a half-recipe was just 1 hour and 10 minutes. This made it a convenient and delicious option for busy households.
Over the years, the recipe has been refined. Suggestions include adding baking powder and more orange juice. Using a square pan instead of a loaf pan ensures even baking.
“The vintage Orange Cake recipe was deemed irredeemable by the reviewer’s grandmother due to various flaws, including lack of leavening, excessive batter for the pan size, and incorrect baking instructions leading to an undesirable texture.”
Despite its initial challenges, this classic orange dessert has endured. It has become a household favorite for many families. This is thanks to its unbeatable combination of zesty, citrusy flavors and ease of preparation.
Essential Ingredients for Your Orange Cake Recipe
To make a delicious orange cake at home, you need the right mix of ingredients. This includes fresh citrus, dry and wet ingredients, and special touches for flavor. Let’s look at what makes this classic dessert so special.
Fresh Citrus Components
The recipe starts with fresh orange zest from about 3 medium oranges. This adds a bright, citrusy smell and taste to the cake. It also uses 1/2 cup of fresh orange juice for a tangy flavor in every bite.
Dry and Wet Ingredients List
- 2 1/2 cups (300g) of all-purpose flour as the primary structure-building component
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder, acting as a leavening agent for a light and fluffy texture
- 1 1/4 cups (300g) of granulated sugar for the perfect sweetness
- 4 large eggs at room temperature, providing richness and binding properties
- 1 cup (240ml) of neutral baking oil, such as canola or vegetable, for moisture and tenderness
- 1/4 cup (60ml) of melted unsalted butter, adding additional flavor and richness
- 1/2 cup (120ml) of milk, infusing the batter with moisture
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for depth of flavor
Special Additions for Enhanced Flavor
The recipe adds a special ingredient – instant lemon pudding mix. This adds to the citrus taste and makes the cake moist and springy.
With these ingredients, you get a perfectly balanced orange cake. It’s a treat that you and your loved ones will love.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To bake a delicious orange bundt cake, you need a few key tools. Start with a sturdy 9×13-inch cake pan or a classic bundt pan for the right shape. You’ll also need mixing bowls, an electric mixer, and a whisk to mix the batter.
For accurate measurements, have measuring cups and spoons ready. A fine grater or zester is crucial for zesting oranges. If you’re making a loaf or layer cake, parchment paper helps with easy pan release.
Don’t forget a microwave-safe bowl for melting butter. And a wire cooling rack is key for cooling your orange bundt cake before icing and serving.
With these tools, you’re ready to make a moist, flavorful, and beautiful orange bundt cake. It will surely impress your loved ones.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions
Making a delicious orange layer cake is simpler than you think. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a moist, tasty treat in no time.
Preparing the Batter
First, heat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Mix the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and a bit of salt in one bowl. In another, mix the butter, sugar, and orange zest until it’s light and fluffy.
Then, add the eggs one at a time. After that, mix in the dry and wet ingredients (like orange juice and sour cream) alternately. Just mix until everything is combined.
Baking Temperature and Timing
Grease and flour an 8-inch square baking pan. Pour the orange layer cake batter into it and smooth the top. Bake for 35-45 minutes, until a toothpick in the center has a few moist crumbs.
Testing for Doneness
Watch the cake closely in the last minutes. It should be golden on top and edges should be slightly pulled away. To check, insert a toothpick or skewer into the center. If it’s clean or has a few crumbs, it’s done.
After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for 20-35 minutes. Then, flip it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This keeps it moist and tender.
“The secret to a perfectly moist and flavorful orange layer cake is in the details – from using fresh citrus to carefully monitoring the baking time.”
The Secret to a Moist Orange Cake
The secret to this delightful orange pound cake is instant pudding mix and the poke cake method. The pudding mix makes the cake soft and spongy. After baking, the cake is fork-poked and a zesty orange glaze is poured over it.
This method ensures every bite is full of orange flavor. The moist cake and tangy glaze make it a treat for your senses. You’ll want more of this zesty cake.
| Nutrition Facts | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories per serving | 379kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 68g |
| Protein | 7g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Sodium | 191mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 44g |
By using these two techniques, your homemade orange pound cake will be moist and flavorful. Prepare to enjoy a truly exceptional and zesty cake that will make your taste buds happy.
Creating the Perfect Orange Glaze
Take your homemade orange glaze to the next level with this easy recipe. The secret to a stunning, glossy finish is in the right mix of ingredients. Let’s explore how to turn your citrus cake into a treat that’s hard to resist.
Glaze Ingredients
To make the perfect orange glaze, you’ll need:
- 2 cups of powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/3 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice
- 6 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter
- (Optional) 1 teaspoon of grated orange zest for extra citrus flavor
Application Techniques
To make your citrus cake moist and flavorful, apply the glaze right. After baking, poke holes in the top with a fork. This lets the glaze soak into the cake, enhancing both taste and texture.
Whisk the powdered sugar, orange juice, and melted butter until smooth. Pour the glaze over the warm cake, making sure it covers the whole surface. As it cools, the glaze will harden and shine beautifully.
| Glaze Drying Time | Storage at Room Temperature | Refrigeration | Freezing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 2 hours | Up to 48 hours | Up to 1 week | Up to 3 months |
With this simple method, you’ll get a moist, tasty orange cake that will impress everyone. Enjoy the perfect mix of sweet and tangy in every bite!
Variations and Serving Suggestions
This orange flavored cake is perfect for many occasions. You can dust it with powdered sugar for a simple look. Or, try a tangy orange dessert glaze for a burst of flavor.
For a fancy touch, add homemade whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top. The cake can also be dressed up with chocolate ganache, orange curd, or toasted almonds.
Enjoy this cake with coffee or tea for a special treat. It’s great as a dessert or a snack any time.
Want to try something new? Add ingredients like five-spice powder or Greek yogurt to the recipe. This way, you can make your own unique orange flavored cake. It’s sure to be a hit with your family.
Storage Tips and Shelf Life
Your delicious orange cake can stay fresh for 3-4 days at room temperature. Keep it in an airtight container to keep it moist and flavorful. If you need to store it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Make sure it’s completely cool before wrapping to avoid moisture.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is a great way to keep your orange cake fresh for months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil. This double wrapping keeps it fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight. After it’s thawed, let it come to room temperature. Then, add a fresh glaze or icing for the best taste and texture.
FAQ
What are the key ingredients in this orange cake recipe?
What tools and equipment are needed to make this orange cake?
What is the secret to the moist texture of this orange cake?
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Source Links
- The Easy Poke Cake I’ve Been Making for Decades – https://www.simplyrecipes.com/orange-poke-cake-recipe-8713932
- Orange Pound Cake, Easy Homemade Recipe – https://www.onesarcasticbaker.com/orange-pound-cake/
- Orange Cake – https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/orange-cake/?srsltid=AfmBOopWwrR0P-aGohmdfASA1CqXp3VV5ECgcEmPNqUFoGfwRRv6QDaJ
- My grandmother hated this cake: Vintage Recipe Roulette with Orange Cake – https://momofnorank.substack.com/p/my-grandmother-hated-this-cake-vintage
- Portokalopita – Greek Orange Cake – Kitchen Epiphanies – https://www.kitchenepiphanies.com/portokalopita-greek-orange-cake/
- Best Orange Cake Ever – https://www.munatycooking.com/orange-cake/
- Orange Cake (Easy and Moist Recipe) – Olives + Thyme – https://olivesnthyme.com/orange-cake/
- Fresh Orange Cake – https://www.yourhomebasedmom.com/orange-cake/
- Fresh Orange Pound Cake in a Loaf Pan – https://thepracticalkitchen.com/orange-pound-cake/
- Orange Juice Cake – https://littlesunnykitchen.com/orange-juice-cake/
- Orange Cake – https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/orange-cake/
- Orange Cake with Olive Oil (Food Processor Recipe) – https://bakefresh.net/orange-cake-with-olive-oil/
- Orange Cake – https://feelgoodfoodie.net/recipe/orange-cake/
- Easy Moist Orange Pound Cake – https://www.delscookingtwist.com/easy-orange-pound-cake/
- Extra Moist Orange Cake – Cooking With Claudy – https://cookingwithclaudy.com/extra-moist-orange-cake/
- Orange Glaze Recipe | Julie Blanner – https://julieblanner.com/orange-glaze-recipe/
- Orange Pound Cake – https://www.gonnawantseconds.com/orange-pound-cake-with-orange-syrup-and-orange-glaze/
- Orange Cake – https://www.piesandtacos.com/orange-cake/
- 15 Orange Cake Recipes For Citrus Lovers – https://www.allrecipes.com/gallery/orange-cake-recipes/
- Orange & Rosemary Olive Oil Cake – Glow Diaries – https://glow-diaries.com/orange-rosemary-cake/
- Orange Olive Oil Cake, Easiest One Bowl Recipe – https://thedeliciouslife.com/orange-olive-oil-cake/
- Orange Almond Tea Cake – https://pastrieslikeapro.com/orange-almond-tea-cake/
- Cranberry Orange Pound Cake – https://www.dinnerin321.com/cranberry-orange-pound-cake/