Orange Zest Cake

Orange Zest Cake 🍊🍰

This Orange Zest Cake is a moist, flavorful, and aromatic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with the bright, citrusy flavors of orange juice and zest, this cake is easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re baking it for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just because, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Orange Zest Cake step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Citrusy & Refreshing : The combination of orange juice and zest gives this cake a bright, zesty flavor.
2. Moist & Tender : The oil and eggs create a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
3. Easy to Make : Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe approachable for any home baker.
4. Customizable : Add glaze, whipped cream, or fresh fruit for extra indulgence.
5. Perfect for Any Occasion : Great for birthdays, holidays, or as a sweet treat anytime.

Ingredients

(Serves 8–10)

• 5 eggs , at room temperature 🥚
• 400 g sugar 🫒
• 375 ml oil (vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil ) 🫒
• 400 ml orange juice 🍊
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (finely grated ) 🍊
• 580 g all-purpose wheat flour 🥣
• 25 g baking powder 🌾
• 1 teaspoon salt 🧂

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Beat Eggs and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for 5–7 minutes , or until the mixture is pale, thick, and slightly fluffy.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

1. Gradually add the oil , orange juice , and orange zest to the egg mixture. Mix on low speed until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour , baking powder , and salt until well combined.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—stop as soon as the batter is smooth and free of lumps.

Step 6: Pour into the Pan

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 7: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–45 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Tip : Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even cooking.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

1. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes , then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Slice and serve plain, or add a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of glaze, or fresh whipped cream for extra flair.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Oranges : Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest provide the best flavor. Avoid bottled juice if possible.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients : Ensure the eggs are at room temperature for a fluffier batter.
3. Add Glaze : Make a simple glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake for added sweetness.
4. Make Ahead : Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week .
5. Freeze for Later : Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Perfect Pairings

This Orange Zest Cake pairs beautifully with:

• Coffee or Tea : Enjoy alongside a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
• Fresh Fruit : Serve with fresh berries, sliced oranges, or a dollop of whipped cream for balance.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water, lemonade, or a cold soda for refreshment.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approx.)

(Based on 10 slices)

• Calories : ~400 kcal
• Protein : ~6g
• Carbohydrates : ~55g
• Fat : ~20g
• Fiber : ~1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Zest Cake is a moist, flavorful, and refreshing dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a casual snack, a holiday feast, or a special celebration, this cake delivers on taste and texture. The combination of orange juice, zest, and a tender crumb creates a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delightful.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the toppings, adjust the flavors, or pair it with different sides to make it your own. So grab your oranges, zest that peel, and get ready to enjoy a cake that’s as fun to share as it is to eat.