Orange Cake Loaf

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s easy to whip up, this Orange Cake Loaf is just what you need! Soft, moist, and bursting with the bright flavor of fresh oranges, it quickly became a favorite in my kitchen. I love how simple it is to make with just six ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something special without too much fuss. Plus, it fills your home with the most inviting aroma as it bakes!

This cake is not only delicious but also versatile. Whether you slice it for breakfast, serve it as an afternoon snack, or bring it to a potluck, the Orange Cake Loaf will surely impress everyone. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a delicious cake in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the sweet and tangy flavor of this orange loaf cake!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy slices throughout the week.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Simple and wholesome ingredients mean you can feel good about what you’re serving.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From brunch to dessert, this loaf fits right in anywhere!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Orange Cake Loaf, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Gather these items, and let’s get started on creating something delicious!

Ingredients:
– 210 grams (1 and 1/2 cup) all-purpose flour (dip and sweep)
– 2 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 18 grams (2 tablespoons) orange zest
– 105 grams (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 115 grams (1/2 cup) melted butter
– 180 grams (3/4 cup) fresh orange juice (sieved)

Variations

One of the best things about this Orange Cake Loaf is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few fun ideas:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: For a sweeter twist, add some dark chocolate chips to the batter.
• Swap the Citrus: Try lemon or grapefruit zest instead of orange for a different flavor profile.
• Glaze It: Drizzle a simple orange glaze over the top after cooling for added sweetness.

How to Make Orange Cake Loaf

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Greasing your loaf pan ensures that your cake comes out easily after baking. Don’t forget to line it with parchment paper for extra insurance!

Step 2: Prepare Your Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder using a whisk. This step helps aerate the flour and evenly distribute the baking powder so your cake rises beautifully.

Step 3: Mix Sugar and Zest

In another medium bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and orange zest. Rubbing them together with your fingers or using a fork releases essential oils from the zest into the sugar, amplifying that lovely orange flavor.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the eggs to your sugar mixture and whisk until just combined. Then stir in the melted butter and fresh orange juice. This creates a rich wet mixture that adds moisture to your cake.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour your wet mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients. Gently stir with a whisk until just combined—overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so keep it light!

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Transfer your batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 35 to 38 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, you’re good to go!

Step 7: Cool Down

Once baked, let the loaf rest in the pan for about 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps prevent sogginess while giving you time to savor that irresistible aroma wafting through your kitchen.

Enjoy every slice of this delightful Orange Cake Loaf! It’s truly one of those recipes that brings warmth and joy to any occasion.

Pro Tips for Making Orange Cake Loaf

Making the perfect Orange Cake Loaf can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your cake turns out wonderfully every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh oranges to extract juice and zest. This enhances the flavor significantly compared to bottled alternatives, giving your cake a vibrant citrus taste.
• Sift your flour: Sifting helps aerate the flour, making your cake lighter and fluffier. It prevents clumps that can lead to uneven texture in your loaf.
• Don’t overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can develop gluten, resulting in a dense loaf rather than a light and airy one.
• Check for doneness early: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended time. This will help prevent overbaking, keeping your cake moist.
• Cool properly: Allowing your cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack helps maintain its structure and prevents it from falling apart.

How to Serve Orange Cake Loaf

Serving your Orange Cake Loaf is an opportunity to get creative! Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, presenting it well can enhance the enjoyment of this delicious treat.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance while balancing the sweetness with its subtle flavor.
• Orange slices: Fresh orange slices arranged on top or alongside the loaf provide a pop of color and freshness that complements the cake’s flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt offers a tangy contrast to the sweet loaf, enhancing the overall flavor profile while adding a protein boost.
• Mixed berries: A fresh fruit medley of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries not only adds vibrant color but also brings a refreshing tartness that pairs wonderfully with the sweet orange flavors.
• Herbal tea: Serving your Orange Cake Loaf with herbal tea like chamomile or mint creates a calming experience that’s perfect for afternoon gatherings or cozy evenings.
• Coffee: A warm cup of coffee elevates this loaf into an inviting breakfast option. The robust flavors of coffee beautifully complement the citrus notes of the cake.

Enjoy crafting this delightful Orange Cake Loaf and impressing your family and friends with its appealing presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Orange Cake Loaf is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious treat throughout the week. Plus, it stores well, making it easy to have a slice whenever you crave something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in an airtight container or a resealable bag.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the cooled cake into individual pieces.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, ensuring it’s sealed well.
• Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Remove the desired slice from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• To reheat, place the slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, warm it in an oven preheated to 350°F (177°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delightful Orange Cake Loaf.

Can I use another type of citrus instead of orange?

Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted using lemon or lime zest and juice for a different flavor profile while keeping that moist texture.

How long does Orange Cake Loaf last?

When properly stored, your Orange Cake Loaf will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days and can be refrigerated for about a week. For longer storage, freeze individual slices!

Can I substitute ingredients in the Orange Cake Loaf recipe?

Yes! You can replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute of your choice. For butter, you may use coconut oil as a dairy-free option.

Is Orange Cake Loaf suitable for special diets?

This recipe is naturally free from pork and alcohol. It can easily be made dairy-free by substituting butter with plant-based alternatives.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Cake Loaf is not just easy to make; it’s also bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. I hope you enjoy bringing this joyful treat into your home as much as I do! Whether you’re having it with tea or as a sweet dessert, it’s sure to brighten your day. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your delicious creation with friends and family!