Easy Orange Cake

This Easy Orange Cake is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Bursting with citrus flavor from fresh oranges, it’s moist and topped with rich cream cheese frosting. This cake stands out not only for its vibrant taste but also for its simple preparation, making it a go-to dessert for summer gatherings, birthdays, or just a sweet indulgence at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this cake can be made in no time.
• Refreshing Flavor: The combination of fresh orange zest and mandarin orange slices adds a refreshing citrus burst that’s perfect for warm weather.
• Versatile Dessert: Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or enjoying an afternoon tea, this cake fits every occasion beautifully.
• Gorgeous Presentation: The bright orange color and luscious cream cheese frosting make this cake visually appealing and mouth-watering.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite fruits or nuts on top for extra flavor and texture.

Tools and Preparation

To successfully make your Easy Orange Cake, you’ll need some essential tools. Using the right equipment ensures a smooth baking process and great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Spatula
• Cake pans (8×2 inches)
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining your ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: Helps to incorporate air into your batter, giving your cake a light texture.
• Spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are well mixed.

Ingredients

For this delicious Easy Orange Cake, gather the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1.5 tsp Baking powder

Wet Ingredients

• 2 Eggs (Large)
• 1/4 cup Butter (Unsalted, Melted)
• 2 cups Granulated sugar
• 1 cup Buttermilk
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1 tsp Orange extract
• 2 tbsp Orange zest
• Orange food coloring (Adjust quantity according to how vibrant you want the cake)

Toppings

• 3 cups Cream cheese frosting
• 1 cup Orange marmalade (or Jam)
• 1 cup Mandarin orange slices (Patted dry on paper towels)

How to Make Easy Orange Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease and flour two round cake pans measuring 8×2 inches.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another large mixing bowl, add the eggs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Add Remaining Wet Ingredients

Add buttermilk, vanilla extract, orange extract, orange zest, and orange food coloring to the wet mixture. Stir until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined; avoid over-mixing.

Step 6: Bake the Cakes

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool Down

Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans before removing them.

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Once cooled, trim any domes from the tops of each cake layer. Place one layer on a cake stand and spread a thin layer of orange marmalade followed by a thick layer of cream cheese frosting. Add mandarin orange slices if desired.

Step 9: Final Layer

Top it with the second cake layer. Spread another thin layer of marmalade followed by more cream cheese frosting. Garnish with additional mandarin orange slices on top.

Now enjoy your beautifully crafted Easy Orange Cake!

How to Serve Easy Orange Cake

Serving your Easy Orange Cake can elevate its deliciousness and presentation. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your cake experience.

Pair with Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of Easy Orange Cake with a side of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.

Add Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on top of each slice adds a light and airy texture, perfect for balancing the cake’s richness.

Enjoy with Ice Cream

• Pairing the cake with vanilla or citrus-flavored ice cream creates a delightful dessert that’s both creamy and refreshing.

Garnish with Mint

• A sprig of fresh mint on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of herbal freshness to every bite.

Serve with Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy your Easy Orange Cake alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. The flavors complement each other beautifully.

How to Perfect Easy Orange Cake

To ensure your Easy Orange Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use kitchen scales and measuring cups to ensure precise ingredient amounts for best results.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Let eggs and butter sit at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter.
• Do Not Over-Mix: Mix the batter until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light, fluffy one.
• Cool Cakes Completely: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures neat layers.
• Use Quality Extracts: Opt for pure vanilla and orange extracts for the best flavor profile in your cake.
• Adjust Food Coloring Gradually: If using food coloring, start with small amounts and add more until you achieve your desired vibrancy.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Orange Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Orange Cake can make for an even more enjoyable meal. Here are some tasty options.

1. Citrus Salad: A mix of oranges, grapefruit, and lemon zest creates a refreshing side that complements the cake’s flavors.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and honey for a creamy contrast that balances sweetness.
3. Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote made from berries or stone fruits adds a sweet sauce perfect for drizzling over cake slices.
4. Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted almonds or walnuts provides a crunchy texture that pairs well with the soft cake.
5. Chilled Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar adds refreshing notes that brighten up the meal.
6. Vanilla Pudding Cups: Serve chilled vanilla pudding in individual cups as a creamy accompaniment to the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking an Easy Orange Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the flour sifting: Not sifting your flour can lead to a denser cake. Always sift before measuring to ensure lightness.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make the cake tough. Mix just until combined for a soft texture.
• Not letting the cake cool properly: Cutting the cake too soon can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool completely before frosting.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold ingredients can affect the batter consistency. Bring eggs and buttermilk to room temperature for best results.
• Using stale ingredients: Old baking powder or expired sugar can ruin your cake. Always check your ingredients before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep layers separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Easy Orange Cake

• Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Orange Cake

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Easy Orange Cake so moist?

The use of buttermilk and melted butter contributes significantly to the moisture level of the cake, ensuring every bite is soft and flavorful.

Can I substitute other fruits in this Easy Orange Cake?

Absolutely! You can try using lemon or lime zest instead of orange zest for a different citrus twist.

How do I store leftover Easy Orange Cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make this Easy Orange Cake dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with a plant-based milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice and use dairy-free butter alternatives.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Orange Cake is not only delightful with its creamy frosting and fresh citrus flavors, but it also offers versatility. Feel free to experiment with different zests or add your favorite fruits for customization. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion!