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.

Summer Blake

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2025-11-13T07:51:04.792Z

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.

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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.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration50 minutes
Overall Time1 hour 5 minutes

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. 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  2. 1 cup granulated sugar
  3. ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  4. 2 large eggs
  5. ½ cup milk
  6. Zest of 2 oranges
  7. Juice of 1 orange
  8. 2 teaspoons baking powder
  9. ½ teaspoon salt
  10. Optional: Powdered sugar for dusting

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.

Step 02

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.

Step 03

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 04

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.

Step 05

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.

Step 06

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