Delicious Orange Loaf Cake Recipe for Your Sweet Cravings

If you love a burst of citrus in your desserts, this Orange Loaf Cake is just what you need. It’s a light, moist cake infused with the fresh zest of oranges, making it the perfect sweet treat to enjoy with tea or coffee. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees delightful results every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before diving into the method, here’s a list of simple ingredients that you’ll need to make this delectable Orange Loaf Cake:

Dry Ingredients:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base of your cake, giving it structure.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
¼ teaspoon baking soda – Aids in the cake’s leavening.
Pinch of salt – Enhances the flavors.

Wet Ingredients:

¾ cup unsalted butter (at room temperature) – Butter adds richness and moisture.
1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps achieve a golden crust.
2 large eggs – Provides structure and stability to the batter.
Zest of 2 oranges – The star of this recipe, adding intense citrus flavor.
½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice – This not only intensifies the orange flavor but also adds moisture to the cake.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a subtle warmth to the cake’s flavor.

Optional Additions:

½ cup white chocolate chips or raisins (optional) – These add sweetness and texture.
2 tablespoons orange marmalade (for extra flavor, optional) – Brush on top after baking for a glossy finish.

For the Glaze (Optional):

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice

Equipment Needed:

Loaf pan (9×5 inch) – The classic shape for a loaf cake.
Mixing bowls – You’ll need one for wet ingredients and another for dry ingredients.
Electric hand mixer or stand mixer – Makes creaming the butter and sugar much easier.
Zester or grater – To get those fine bits of orange zest that’ll infuse the batter with flavor.
Whisk and spatula – For mixing the ingredients smoothly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s move on to making this delightful cake.

1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line the pan with parchment paper, leaving extra over the sides for easy lifting.

2. Sift the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps aerate the flour, ensuring your cake has a light texture.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes). This step is crucial because it creates air pockets in the batter, resulting in a soft and tender cake.

4. Add the Eggs and Flavorings

Once your butter and sugar are well mixed, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Next, mix in the orange zest and vanilla extract. This is where your cake will start to smell incredible, as the orange zest releases its fragrant oils.

5. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients and Orange Juice

Gradually, add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the orange juice. Start with the flour mixture, followed by half of the orange juice, then repeat. Mix on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

6. Add the Optional Ingredients

At this point, you can fold in white chocolate chips or raisins if you like a little extra texture and sweetness in your cake. These ingredients are completely optional but add an interesting twist to the traditional Orange Loaf Cake.

7. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on your cake as it approaches the 40-minute mark.

8. Cool and Glaze (Optional)

Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift it out using the parchment paper and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

For a more indulgent cake, prepare a simple orange glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Drizzle this over the cooled cake for a burst of extra sweetness and a lovely sheen.

Tips for the Perfect Orange Loaf Cake

Use fresh oranges: For the best flavor, always use freshly squeezed orange juice and zest. Avoid store-bought orange juice as it may not provide the same freshness.
Room temperature ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature to help them blend more smoothly and evenly into the batter.
Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the lightest texture.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

This cake is perfect for making ahead and storing for later. Here’s how you can keep it fresh:

At room temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
In the refrigerator: If you live in a warmer climate or prefer a chilled cake, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.
In the freezer: You can freeze the loaf cake for up to 3 months. Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and then place it in a zip-top freezer bag. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices of this Orange Loaf Cake with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon snack. You can also pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert. The cake’s light, citrusy flavor also makes it a wonderful option for brunch or as a hostess gift.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Orange Loaf Cake is a true crowd-pleaser because of its simplicity and fresh, bright flavors. The orange zest and juice work together to create a moist, tender crumb with a beautiful citrus aroma. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.