Easy and Delicious Orange Cake Recipe for Any Occasion

Made without a mixer, this Orange Cake is a breeze to whip up! Its moist and tender texture will have it melting in your mouth. Packed with vibrant orange flavor from the zest and fresh juice, this cake is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a delightful mid-afternoon treat!

Ideal for any celebration, this cake is so straightforward to make that you won’t even need a mixer. All you need are mixing bowls and a whisk, and you’ll have this delicious treat ready in no time.

Despite being made with simple ingredients, this cake is sure to impress. Each bite is so soft and moist that you’ll find yourself going back for another slice. The combination of orange juice, zest, and a sweet orange glaze creates a refreshing burst of citrus in every mouthful. If you’re looking to lift your spirits, the bright flavors of this cake are just what you need!

Keys ingredients :

• Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature to facilitate a smooth mixing process. Crack them into a bowl and lightly beat them to prepare for incorporation into the batter.
• Sugar : Granulated sugar is your best choice for achieving the perfect texture. Alternatively, you can use brown sugar for a hint of caramelized flavor that adds depth to the cake.
• Orange Juice : For optimal flavor, opt for freshly squeezed orange juice. If you don't have fresh oranges on hand, select a brand of juice that contains no additives for the next best option.
• Oil : A neutral oil, such as sunflower or canola oil, is ideal as it won’t interfere with the delightful orange flavor of the cake, keeping the focus on the citrus notes.
• Salt: Just a small pinch will enhance the overall flavor of your mixture, bringing balance to the sweetness—be cautious not to add too much.
• Zest of Orange: Grate the peel of an untreated orange to release its aromatic essential oils. This addition brings a vibrant and refreshing fragrance to your recipe, elevating its citrus profile.
• Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for effective rising. Sifting it together with the flour helps ensure an even distribution throughout the batter.
• All-Purpose Flour : Sift the flour before use to eliminate any clumps, which will help you achieve a light and airy batter, resulting in a tender cake.

Reason why you’ll love this orange cake recipe

You’ll fall in love with this orange cake the moment you take your first bite. Its bright, citrusy flavor dances on your palate, instantly lifting your spirits and evoking memories of sunlit days. The moist, tender crumb melts effortlessly in your mouth, a testament to the care put into every ingredient.

Baking this cake is not just a task; it’s a celebration of simple joys. As you mix the vibrant orange zest and juice, the aroma fills your kitchen, wrapping you in warmth and nostalgia. Whether enjoyed at a cozy brunch with friends or as a sweet treat after a long day, this cake brings people together, sparking laughter and heartfelt conversations.

Each slice is a reminder that life’s most beautiful moments often come from the simplest pleasures. It’s a cake made with love, perfect for sharing with those you cherish. So gather around the table, savor the flavor, and let this orange cake become a cherished part of your memories.

How to Make the Perfect Orange Cake: A Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to ensure an even bake and a golden crust. Grease a cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal once the cake is done.

Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, crack 3 eggs. Whisk lightly until they start to froth, giving the mixture some airiness. Next, add in 2/3 cup of granulated sugar and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the mixture turns smooth and creamy. Pour in 1/2 cup of neutral oil, mixing thoroughly until everything is fully combined. Finally, add 2/3 cup of fresh orange juice, stirring well to infuse the batter with a bright, citrusy flavor.

Add the Orange Zest
Grate the zest of one untreated orange and sprinkle it into the mixture. Gently fold it in to spread the fragrance and flavor of the orange zest throughout the batter, enhancing its citrus profile.

Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 15 g of baking powder and 2 cups of all-purpose flour. Slowly sift this mixture over the wet ingredients in the main bowl, folding it in gently with a spatula. Take care to avoid overmixing—stop as soon as the flour is fully incorporated to keep the batter light and prevent a dense cake texture.

Pour and Smooth the Batter
Once the batter is ready, pour it into your prepared cake pan. Use a spatula to evenly smooth out the top of the batter, ensuring it will bake evenly.

Bake
Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. The cake should rise and take on a lovely golden hue. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Cool and Serve
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and enjoy! For an extra touch, you can drizzle the top with a simple glaze made by mixing powdered sugar and a splash of orange juice.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?
While fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor, you can use bottled orange juice if needed. Just make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sugars or preservatives.

2. How do I store leftover orange cake?
To keep your orange cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months.

3. Can I substitute the oil in the recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the oil with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier option, or use melted butter for a richer flavor. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture of the cake.

4. Is it necessary to sift the flour?
Sifting the flour helps to aerate it and remove any lumps, resulting in a lighter cake. If you don’t have a sifter, you can whisk the flour in the bowl before measuring.

5. What can I do if my cake is too dense?
A dense cake can result from overmixing the batter or using too much flour. Make sure to gently fold the ingredients together and measure your flour accurately, ideally by using a kitchen scale.

6. Can I add other flavors to this cake?
Absolutely! You can incorporate other citrus zests like lemon or lime, or even add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist.

7. How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Additionally, the edges should start to pull away from the sides of the pan.