Orange Cake

Combining the bright and zesty flavor of freshly squeezed orange juice and orange peel with a moist, tender crumb creates a wonderfully fragrant orange cake. Top it with a creamy orange frosting that adds just the right amount of tanginess, and this recipe is a must-try for citrus lovers.

And, not only is this recipe quick and easy to prepare—requiring just 35 minutes of baking time—but the combination of simple ingredients makes it a standout dessert for family dinners or special celebrations. Best of all, this orange cake recipe can easily be made ahead, so it’s ideal for busy bakers or last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients for Orange Cake

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• Butter: Softened butter creates a rich and tender crumb in this orange cake recipe.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps create a light and fluffy texture to the batter.
• Eggs: Two large eggs provide structure and moisture to the cake. Always make sure your eggs are at room temperature before baking.
• Orange juice and peel: Freshly squeezed orange juice and orange peel infuse the cake with a bright citrus flavor.
• Almond extract: A small amount of almond extract enhances the flavor with a subtle nutty note.
• Cake flour: The use of cake flour, a finer textured flour compared with all-purpose flour, results in a softer and more delicate orange cake.
• Baking powder: Baking powder helps the cake rise and creates a light and fluffy texture.

Frosting:

• Confectioners’ sugar, butter and orange juice: This trio combines to make the frosting for the orange cake. Powdered sugar adds sweetness and smooth texture, butter helps the frosting bind and a couple of tablespoons of fresh orange juice reinforce the orange flavoring in the frosting and cake.

Directions

Step 1: Cream the butter and sugar

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Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add the eggs and flavorings

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Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the orange juice, water, orange peel and almond extract until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine the dry ingredients

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In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 4: Bake the cake

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Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch square baking dish. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the frosting

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In a medium bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar, softened butter and enough orange juice to achieve a spreading consistency. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Frost the cake

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Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the orange frosting evenly over the top.

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Orange Cake Variations

• Add a different citrus twist: Incorporate lemon or lime zest along with the orange zest for a more complex citrus flavor.
• Make it nutty: Fold 1/2 cup of chopped almonds or walnuts into the batter for added texture. Toast the nuts before adding them to the batter for a more intense flavor in this orange cake.
• Add a fruity twist: Add a cup of fresh blueberries to the batter for a fruity variation to this orange cake.
• Top with fruit: Garnish the frosted orange cake with fresh orange slices or berries for a vibrant visual finish.

How to Store Orange Cake

Store any leftovers of this orange cake recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to 10 days.

Can you freeze orange cake?

Yes, you can freeze this orange cake—minus the orange frosting. Wrap the cooled cake tightly first in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze the cake for up to eight months, then thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and frost before serving.

Can you make orange cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake this orange cake up to a day in advance. Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature. For the best flavor and texture, frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it.

Orange Cake Tips

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What type of orange juice is best for this cake?

Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor. If using store-bought juice, opt for a high-quality brand without added sugars.

How can you make orange cake extra moist?

Adding a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt to the batter can enhance the moisture content of this orange cake. You can also brush the warm cake with a simple syrup made from equal parts orange juice and sugar for extra moisture and flavor.

What can you serve with orange cake?

This orange cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate gravy for a decadent Southern twist. Fresh berries also complement the citrus flavor beautifully.