Description
This classic Orange Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion. Made with fresh orange juice and zest, it delivers a bright citrus flavor balanced by a tender crumb. Easy to prepare and baked to golden perfection, this cake is ideal for gatherings or a delightful treat alongside your afternoon tea.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later incorporation.
- Cream butter and sugar: Using a mixer, beat the room temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color. This helps create a tender texture in the cake.
- Add eggs: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
- Add orange juice and zest: Mix in the fresh orange juice and the zest of one orange until fully combined, ensuring the batter is smooth and bursting with citrus flavor.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.
- Pour and bake: Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding flour to keep the cake light and tender.
- You can substitute fresh orange juice with store-bought, but fresh juice enhances flavor.
- If desired, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar or glaze with a simple orange icing for extra sweetness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
