Homemade Orange Cake Recipe: A Zesty, Moist, and Easy-to-Make Delight

There’s no denying the invigorating and revitalizing taste of oranges. Their vibrant color and zesty flavor bring a burst of freshness to any dish, and desserts are no exception. Orange cake, with its perfect blend of citrusy goodness and soft, moist texture, is a timeless treat that’s sure to delight everyone. In this post, we’ll guide you through creating a homemade orange cake from scratch, savoring the rich aroma and flavor of this classic dessert.

The Magic of Orange Cake

Orange cake is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a tender crumb and a bright, tangy flavor that’s both refreshing and comforting. Whether enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or centerpiece for a special occasion, every slice feels like a ray of sunshine. Its versatility shines in everything from simple loaf cakes to layered masterpieces adorned with creamy orange frosting. No matter the setting, orange cake adds a touch of joy to any celebration.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup fresh orange juice (from 2-3 oranges)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream the granulated sugar and melted butter until light and fluffy. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for best results.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the orange zest and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternately add the dry ingredients and orange juice to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Gently fold in the yogurt or sour cream.

Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and tap it lightly on the counter to remove air bubbles. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve plain or dusted with powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh oranges for the juice and zest to maximize flavor.
• Ensure all ingredients, including eggs and butter, are at room temperature for even mixing.
• Adjust the amount of zest and juice to suit your preferred level of orange flavor.

This homemade orange cake is a delightful dessert that’s bursting with citrusy goodness. Its soft, moist crumb and bright, tangy flavor make it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether paired with tea or as the star of a special event, this cake is sure to brighten your day. So, why wait? Bring a little sunshine into your kitchen with this easy-to-make orange cake!

Enjoy!