Orange Loaf Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful and easy treat to brighten your day, look no further! This Orange Loaf Cake is a family favorite that never fails to impress. It’s unbelievably moist and bursting with fresh orange flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee or serving it at a weekend brunch, this cake will bring a smile to everyone’s face.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create something that feels fancy without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep or when you’re craving something sweet but want to keep it on the healthier side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just ten minutes of prep time, you can have this cake in the oven in no time.
• Deliciously Moist: Thanks to the yogurt and olive oil, every bite is soft and rich.
• Fresh Flavor: The combination of orange juice and zest gives it a bright and zesty taste that’s simply irresistible.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this Orange Loaf Cake fits right in.
• Make Ahead Friendly: Bake it in advance and store it; it stays delicious for days!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Orange Loaf Cake uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Each one plays a role in creating that wonderful texture and flavor we all love.

For the Cake

• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt (see note)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup olive oil (or vegetable or canola oil)
• Icing sugar (for dusting)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to make your Orange Loaf Cake even more exciting:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or almonds for extra crunch and flavor.
• Incorporate Spices: Try adding cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist on the classic.
• Citrus Swap: Use lemon or lime juice and zest instead of orange for a different citrus experience.
• Enhance with Chocolate: Fold in some mini chocolate chips for a delicious contrast to the orange flavor.

How to Make Orange Loaf Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first—let’s get that oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking right from the start. While that’s warming up, grease and flour an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan so your cake slides out easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the batter. This way, your cake rises beautifully!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, granulated sugar, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Whisk these together until smooth. Then slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously. This process emulsifies the mixture and keeps your cake moist.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, gently add the dry ingredients into the yogurt mixture. Stir just until combined—over-mixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of that light texture we’re aiming for!

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and pop it into the oven! Bake for about 50-55 minutes until the top turns deep golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. This step is crucial; it shows that your cake is perfectly cooked through.

Step 6: Cool Down

Once baked, let your cake cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. If you like, dust with icing sugar or drizzle with glaze—this adds an extra touch of sweetness that complements those citrus notes beautifully!

And there you have it—a simple yet stunning Orange Loaf Cake ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Orange Loaf Cake

Creating the perfect orange loaf cake is easier than you think! Here are some tips to ensure your baking experience is a delightful one.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure that you have the right proportions. This will result in a consistent texture and flavor every time.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and yogurt to come to room temperature before mixing. Room temperature ingredients blend more easily, creating a smoother batter which leads to a lighter cake.
• Don’t Over-Mix: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Over-mixing can make your cake dense instead of light and airy.
• Use Fresh Oranges: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest provide a vibrant flavor that bottled versions simply can’t match. The freshness really shines through in every bite!
• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens vary, so check your cake a few minutes before the recommended time. The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

How to Serve Orange Loaf Cake

Presenting your orange loaf cake beautifully can enhance its appeal even more! Here are some creative ideas on how to serve this delicious treat.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the orange flavor.
• Candied Orange Slices: These not only look stunning but also add an extra burst of citrus flavor. Simply simmer thin slices of orange in sugar syrup until translucent.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt with Honey: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey complements the moistness of the loaf. It’s also great for adding protein!
• Fresh Berries: A handful of mixed berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds color and freshness, balancing the sweetness of the cake.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea pairs beautifully with this orange loaf cake, enhancing its citrus notes while providing a soothing contrast.
• Citrus Salad: A light salad made with various citrus fruits like grapefruit and tangerines can refresh your palate after enjoying a slice of cake, making it an excellent side dish.

Now you’re all set to create and serve this delightful orange loaf cake! Enjoy sharing it with family and friends or savoring it as a special treat for yourself. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Orange Loaf Cake is perfect for meal prep! Its delightful flavor and moist texture make it a fantastic treat to have on hand throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled loaf cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep it refrigerated for up to a week.
• If you want to retain its moisture, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before storing.

Freezing

• Allow the loaf cake to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the package with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy your frozen Orange Loaf Cake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
• For a quick warm-up, slice and microwave each piece for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers might have about this recipe.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for the Orange Loaf Cake?

Yes! Whole wheat flour can be substituted for all-purpose flour. It may give a denser texture but will add extra fiber and nutrients.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Orange Loaf Cake?

You can enhance the flavor by adding more orange zest or incorporating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. A splash of almond extract also pairs beautifully with orange!

What should I serve with Orange Loaf Cake?

Orange Loaf Cake is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a scoop of your favorite dairy-free ice cream for an extra treat!

Can I make this Orange Loaf Cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Loaf Cake is not just a treat; it’s a slice of sunshine! With its vibrant flavors and moist texture, it’s bound to brighten your day and impress your loved ones. I hope you enjoy making this delightful recipe as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your baking adventures and variations. Happy baking!