Made Orange Cake

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Introduction

Made Orange Cake is a simple, moist, and delightfully fragrant dessert that highlights the bright and refreshing flavor of oranges. Bursting with citrusy goodness, this cake has a tender crumb and is infused with fresh orange juice and zest, giving it a natural sweetness and tangy aroma. It’s perfect for afternoon tea, a light dessert, or even breakfast! You can top it with a drizzle of orange glaze or serve it plain with a dusting of powdered sugar for a classic finish. This easy-to-make orange cake is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients Quantity

  • All-purpose flour: 2 cups (250g)
  • Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
  • Salt: ¼ teaspoon
  • Granulated sugar: 1 cup (200g)
  • Unsalted butter: ½ cup (115g), softened
  • Eggs: 3 large, room temperature
  • Orange juice: ½ cup (120ml), freshly squeezed
  • Orange zest: 2 tablespoons (from about 2 oranges)
  • Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
  • Whole milk: ½ cup (120ml)

Optional Ingredients

  • Orange Glaze:
  • Powdered sugar: 1 cup
  • Orange juice: 2-3 tablespoons, for desired consistency
  • Orange zest: 1 teaspoon

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch (20 cm) round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the orange zest and vanilla extract, mixing well.
  5. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the freshly squeezed orange juice and milk.
  6. Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the orange juice mixture in two parts. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix gently after each addition until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Pour into Pan and Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Orange Glaze

  1. Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of fresh orange juice until smooth and pourable. Add more orange juice if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
  2. Glaze the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top, letting it drip down the sides. For extra citrus flavor, sprinkle a little orange zest over the glaze.

Serving

Slice the orange cake into wedges or squares and serve with a hot cup of tea or coffee. This cake can be enjoyed plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit for an elegant touch.

Tips for Success

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter and a tender crumb.
  • Fresh Orange Juice and Zest: Use fresh oranges for both juice and zest to maximize the citrus flavor in your cake. Avoid bottled orange juice, which lacks the vibrant taste of fresh.
  • Do Not Overmix: Overmixing the batter can cause the cake to be dense. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated.

Recommendations

  • Storing: Store the orange cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
  • Flavor Variations: For a more intense citrus flavor, substitute part of the orange juice with lemon juice, or add a pinch of ground cardamom for a spicy note.

Enjoy this simple and refreshing orange cake that’s perfect for any time of the day! 🍊🍰

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