Orange Cake

Indulge in the zesty goodness of a homemade orange cake that’s sure to brighten up any occasion.

With a fluffy texture, the perfect amount of sweetness, and a citrusy burst of flavor, this orange cake is a delightful dessert everyone will love.

The combination of orange zest, freshly squeezed juice, and a tangy orange glaze takes this cake to the next level.

Ingredients List

Let’s break down the ingredients for each element of this deliciously moist and flavorful orange cake. We’ll be using fresh orange juice and zest for the ultimate citrus experience, along with a light and airy cake batter that’s easy to prepare.

For the Cake:

• 2½ cups (300 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons orange zest (from 3 – 4 oranges)
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup (240 ml) neutral baking oil (canola, vegetable, avocado, or olive oil)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240 ml) freshly squeezed orange juice

For the Orange Syrup:

• 3 tablespoons (45 ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
• ¼ cup (50 g) sugar (caster or superfine preferred)

For the Orange Glaze:

• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar
• 2 – 3 tablespoons (30 – 45 ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
• Orange zest (optional)

Required Kitchen Tools

Before getting started, make sure you have the following tools to help you make this orange cake seamlessly:

1. Whisk or Stand Mixer: Whisking by hand or using a stand mixer will help you efficiently incorporate the ingredients, creating a smooth and well-mixed batter.
2. Bundt Pan: A 10-inch (12-cup capacity) bundt pan works best for shaping the cake, ensuring an even bake.
3. Pastry Brush: A pastry brush will help you spread the orange syrup evenly over the warm cake for extra moisture and flavor.
4. Toothpick or Cake Tester: To check for doneness, a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the cake should come out with a few moist crumbs when it’s ready.

Mixing and Baking the Cake

Whisking and Mixing the Ingredients

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: mixing the ingredients for the perfect orange cake.

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that the dry ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed, which is key for the cake’s texture.

Step 2: Whisk the Sugar and Orange Zest

In a separate large mixing bowl (or in the bowl of a stand mixer), whisk the granulated sugar and orange zest together until they form a mixture that resembles wet sand. This process helps to release the oils from the orange zest, infusing the sugar with a burst of citrus flavor.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Next, whisk in the eggs, one at a time. Mix them in on low speed if using a stand mixer, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Continue whisking until the mixture becomes thick, light in color, and slightly fluffy. This should take about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Stream in the Oil and Vanilla

Once the egg and sugar mixture is ready, add the oil and vanilla extract to the bowl. Keep mixing on medium speed for another minute. This step will help your cake stay moist and tender, ensuring a soft, fluffy texture.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients and Orange Juice

Now, it’s time to combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture. On low speed, add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the freshly squeezed orange juice.

Start with the dry ingredients, then add a portion of the orange juice, and repeat until everything is fully incorporated. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure no dry bits are left behind. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.

Baking, Syrup, and Cooling

Baking the Cake

With the batter all mixed and ready, it’s time to bake the cake!

Step 1: Prepare the Bundt Pan

Make sure the bundt pan is greased and floured to prevent the cake from sticking. Since this cake is quite moist, it’s important to thoroughly grease the pan so the cake can be easily removed after baking.

Step 2: Pour the Batter into the Pan

Pour the cake batter into the prepared bundt pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure an even layer.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Place the bundt pan into the preheated oven and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).

Be sure to keep an eye on the cake towards the end of the baking time to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Every oven is different, so check for doneness after 45 minutes and adjust the baking time if needed.

Step 4: Let the Cake Cool

Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. After that, carefully turn the pan over onto a cooling rack to release the cake. Allow the cake to cool completely before applying the syrup and glaze.

Making the Orange Syrup

While the cake is cooling, let’s prepare the orange syrup that will infuse the cake with extra citrusy sweetness.

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a small saucepan, whisk together the freshly squeezed orange juice and sugar. Heat the mixture over low to medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves. Stir occasionally.

Step 2: Apply the Syrup to the Cake

Once the syrup is ready, while the cake is still warm, use a pastry brush or spoon to generously brush the orange syrup over the cake. Make sure to cover every inch, allowing the syrup to soak into the cake and add that extra layer of orange flavor. Allow the cake to absorb the syrup before moving on to the next step.

Glaze, Serving, and Storage

Making the Orange Glaze

Now for the finishing touch – the delicious orange glaze that will give your cake a glossy, sweet finish.

Step 1: Prepare the Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and freshly squeezed orange juice. Start with 2 tablespoons of orange juice, and gradually add more to reach your desired consistency.

The glaze should be smooth and pourable, but not too runny. For an extra citrusy kick, you can add a pinch of orange zest to the glaze for added flavor.

Step 2: Drizzle the Glaze Over the Cake

Once the cake is fully cooled and the syrup has soaked in, drizzle the orange glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.

You can use a spoon or pour the glaze into a piping bag for more control over the distribution. If you’d like, garnish the cake with additional orange zest for a colorful and aromatic finish.

Serving the Cake

Now that your cake is fully decorated, it’s time to serve and enjoy! The moist, citrus-infused flavor of this orange cake pairs perfectly with a hot cup of tea or coffee. This cake is great for special occasions or as a sweet treat to brighten up your day.

Storage Instructions

How to Keep Orange Cake Fresh

To store your cake, place it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to preserve the cake for a longer period, you can store it in the fridge for up to 1 week. Be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing Orange Cake

If you want to keep your cake for a longer period, you can freeze it! Simply wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it at room temperature and drizzle with fresh glaze before serving.

Conclusion

This orange cake is the perfect balance of sweetness and citrus flavor, with its soft texture and zesty finish.

Don’t forget the orange syrup and glaze to take it to the next level! By following these steps and using fresh ingredients, you’ll create a cake that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. Enjoy!