basic orange cake recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe

The Best basic orange cake recipe

I’ve been making this basic orange cake recipe for years, and it’s still a family favorite. The recipe is simple, yet the flavors are rich and complex.

I love how the orange zest and juice add a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate with other citrus fruits. My kids adore the moist texture and sweet taste, and it’s perfect for after-school snacks or breakfast on-the-go.

The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time.

It’s a staple in our household, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a comforting treat, this orange cake is sure to please.

And with its many health benefits – oranges are high in vitamin C, after all – you can feel good about serving it to your loved ones. The aroma alone will transport you to a sunny citrus grove, even on the cloudiest of days.

And don’t even get me started on the presentation: the bright orange color is like a ray of sunshine on your plate.

Basic Orange Cake Recipe

4.8 from 1200 votes

A simple and moist orange cake perfect for any occasion. This recipe uses fresh orange juice and zest for a burst of citrus flavor.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 tbsp orange zest
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Orange Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tbsp fresh orange juice

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
Set aside.
3In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Set aside.
4In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
5Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
6Stir in orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
7Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
8Be careful not to overmix.
9Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
10Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
11Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
12Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
13While the cake is cooling, prepare the orange glaze.
14In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth.
15Add more juice or sugar as needed to reach your desired consistency.
16Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top.
17Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer
8-inch round cake pan
Oven
Whisk
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 95mg🧂Sodium: 300mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 35g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

Tips: For a tangier flavor, add an extra tablespoon of orange zest. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spicy note.

This basic orange cake recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or just need a comforting treat for your family.

And with its numerous health benefits and ease of preparation, you’ll be glad you have it on hand all year round.

Try freezing individual slices or storing leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve freshness and extend shelf life.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Basic Orange Cake

Q: What type of flour do I need for this recipe?

You’ll need all-purpose flour for this recipe. You can also use whole wheat flour if you prefer a nuttier flavor.

Q: Can I substitute other citrus fruits for the oranges?

No, oranges have a unique flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients in this recipe. While you can experiment with other citrus fruits, you may not achieve the same results.

Q: How long does this cake take to prepare?

The prep time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes, not including baking time.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this cake up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container at room temperature until ready to serve.

Q: Is this cake suitable for special diets?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions.

Similar Posts