Orange Loaf Cake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
This delightful Orange Loaf Cake is the perfect treat that combines the zesty brightness of fresh oranges with a moist, tender crumb. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast option or a sweet snack, this cake is easy to prepare and bursting with citrus flavor. Discover how simple ingredients can create a delightful loaf that’s great for sharing or savoring all on your own.
The Joy of Citrus Baking
Baking with citrus fruits like oranges can transform simple recipes into bright and flavorful experiences. The natural acidity and sweetness of oranges add depth to cakes, enhancing their taste and aroma. Whether you’re preparing a loaf cake or muffins, integrating fresh citrus can uplift your dessert game. The zest not only infuses the batter with flavor but also provides a fragrant essence that fills your kitchen with warmth and inviting memories.
Moreover, oranges are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making them a valuable addition to your baking repertoire. By using fresh oranges, you infuse your baked goods with natural sweetness and the goodness that comes from the fruit itself. This not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also aligns with healthier eating habits.
Perfect Anytime Treat
One of the beautiful aspects of an Orange Loaf Cake is its versatility. Whether sliced for breakfast or served as an afternoon snack with tea, this cake fits seamlessly into any part of your day. Its moist texture and citrus zing can wake up your senses in the morning or provide a delightful pick-me-up during a midday break.
This cake is also incredibly easy to make, meaning you can whip it up on a whim. With just a few basic ingredients and steps, you can create something delicious and homemade that your family and friends will adore. The simplicity of the recipe makes it perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike, offering a delightful end result every time.
Sharing and Storing
Sharing your freshly baked Orange Loaf Cake can bring joy and happiness to loved ones. Wrapping up slices to gift to neighbors or serving at gatherings not only showcases your baking skills but also creates connections over food. The fragrant scent of citrus cake often becomes a conversation starter, making it a delightful centerpiece at any gathering.
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your Orange Loaf Cake is simple. The cake can be covered in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. This way, you have a delicious treat ready whenever you need a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Orange Loaf Cake
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- Zest of 2 oranges
- Juice of 1 orange
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the orange zest and juice.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.
Tips for Perfect Baking
For an exceptional Orange Loaf Cake, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature. This practice helps create a smooth batter, allowing for even mixing and better texture. Additionally, use fresh oranges for the zest and juice, as the taste of fresh citrus greatly surpasses that of bottled juice, providing vibrant flavor to your cake.
When measuring flour, avoid packing it into the cup as this can lead to a dense cake. Instead, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This simple step can make a significant difference in the final texture of your loaf.
Flavor Variations
If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding additional flavor elements to your Orange Loaf Cake. Ingredients like walnuts or poppy seeds can introduce a delightful crunch, enhancing the overall texture and flavor profile of the cake. You might also experiment with adding other citrus fruits, like lemon or lime, for an intriguing twist.
For a more sophisticated touch, you could drizzle a citrus glaze over the cake once cooled. A simple mixture of powdered sugar and orange juice can add a lovely shine and extra sweetness that complements the zesty orange flavor perfectly.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other citrus fruits?
Yes! You can substitute orange with lemon or grapefruit for a different flavor.
→ How should I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Orange Loaf Cake
This delightful Orange Loaf Cake is the perfect treat that combines the zesty brightness of fresh oranges with a moist, tender crumb. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast option or a sweet snack, this cake is easy to prepare and bursting with citrus flavor. Discover how simple ingredients can create a delightful loaf that’s great for sharing or savoring all on your own.
Created by: Summer Blake
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Orange Loaf Cake
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- Zest of 2 oranges
- Juice of 1 orange
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the orange zest and juice.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 2g