If you love bright, citrusy flavors wrapped up in a moist, tender cake, this Orange Juice Cake Recipe will quickly become a new favorite. The fresh orange juice and zest create an irresistible burst of freshness that perfectly balances the sweetness, while a hint of cinnamon adds just the right touch of warmth. This cake is incredibly simple to make, yet delivers a delightful texture and flavor that feels like sunshine on a plate. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or a casual afternoon treat, this Orange Juice Cake Recipe offers a delicious way to brighten any day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Orange Juice Cake Recipe lies in its simple, everyday ingredients, each playing a vital role in delivering a beautifully textured and flavored cake. From the all-purpose flour that gives structure to the vibrant orange juice providing natural citrusy tang, every component works together harmoniously.
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base structure for tender crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a lovely golden crust.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and become fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Adds extra lift and works well with acidic orange juice.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances flavor by enhancing sweetness and depth.
- 2 large eggs: Add richness and bind all ingredients together.
- ¾ cup fresh orange juice: The star ingredient that infuses fresh citrus flavor.
- â…“ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and soft for days.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile with subtle warmth.
- Zest of 1 large orange: Amplifies the orange flavor with fragrant oils.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): Adds a cozy hint of spice that pairs wonderfully with orange.
How to Make Orange Juice Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to a moderate 350°F (175°C) and get an 8-inch round cake pan ready by greasing and flouring it well. This ensures your cake releases beautifully when baked without sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and optional cinnamon in a large bowl. Whisking these together ensures every bite is evenly flavored and your cake has a consistent texture.
Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in the fresh orange juice, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and ribbon in the orange zest. This mixture brings all those wonderful citrus notes and moisture into the cake.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry, folding carefully until just combined. Avoid overmixing here to keep your cake light and tender rather than dense and tough.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the batter to your prepared pan, smoothing the top so it bakes evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling the cake is perfectly done.
Step 6: Cool Before Enjoying
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the cake firm up just enough to slice cleanly without falling apart.
How to Serve Orange Juice Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of orange juice adds a beautiful finish. Fresh orange slices or candied orange peel also make stunning garnishes that echo the cake’s citrus charm.
Side Dishes
Pair this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to add creamy richness that complements the tangy orange notes. Fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries add a lovely, colorful contrast and juicy burst.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve slices topped with edible flowers or alongside a small pitcher of warm honey to drizzle. You can also slice this cake thinly and stack into petite layered mini cakes for a party. The vibrant orange zest will really shine in these creative presentations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist and fresh. Avoid refrigeration unless your kitchen is very warm, as this can dry the cake out.
Freezing
This Orange Juice Cake Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 2 months and thaw beautifully at room temperature.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy the cake warm, gently reheat slices in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes. This brings back a fresh-baked feel and highlights the lovely orange aroma.
FAQs
Can I use orange juice from concentrate?
While fresh orange juice offers the best brightness and flavor for this recipe, orange juice from concentrate can work in a pinch. Just opt for pulp-free and try to use a high-quality juice to keep the cake tasting fresh and vibrant.
Is the cinnamon necessary in the recipe?
The cinnamon is optional but highly recommended. It adds a gentle warmth that complements the citrus perfectly and gives the cake an extra layer of flavor depth without overpowering it.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with butter?
You can swap vegetable oil for melted butter if you prefer a richer flavor. Just be aware that butter might slightly change the texture, making it a bit denser but still deliciously moist.
How do I know when the cake is done?
The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick or skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is perfectly baked and ready to come out of the oven.
What is the best way to serve this cake?
This cake shines on its own but also pairs beautifully with fresh cream, a citrus glaze, or fresh fruit. Serving it at room temperature ensures the flavors and texture are at their best.
Final Thoughts
There is something so wonderfully uplifting about this Orange Juice Cake Recipe that makes it an absolute joy to bake and share. Its lovely balance of sweet and citrusy flavors combined with a tender crumb is simply irresistible. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience the sunny delight it brings to any occasion. Happy baking, and enjoy every bite!
Print
Orange Juice Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A moist and flavorful Orange Juice Cake that combines fresh orange juice and zest with a hint of cinnamon for a delightful citrusy dessert. Perfectly tender with a vibrant orange aroma, this cake is easy to prepare and ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup fresh orange juice
- â…“ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 large orange
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon if using. This will distribute the leavening agents evenly for a uniform rise.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. Then add the fresh orange juice, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and orange zest. Mix these ingredients well until fully combined to infuse the cake with citrus flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl. Gently fold the batter until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender and light.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the prepared batter into the greased and floured cake pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—the cake is ready when it comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a stronger orange flavor, add extra orange zest or a tablespoon of orange marmalade to the batter.
- If you want a sweeter, glossier finish, consider topping the cake with an orange glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh orange juice.
- Make sure to not overmix the batter to avoid a dense cake.
- This cake keeps well for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
