Easy Orange Drizzle Cake: A Simple Recipe for a Zesty Delight

Easy Orange Drizzle Cake is a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor to any occasion. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of simplicity and taste that has roots in traditional baking. Originating from the classic British tea cakes, the Easy Orange Drizzle Cake has evolved into a beloved favorite for its moist texture and zesty aroma. I love how this cake combines the sweetness of sugar with the tanginess of fresh oranges, creating a perfect balance that keeps everyone coming back for more.

People adore this dish not only for its vibrant flavor but also for its convenience. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, the Easy Orange Drizzle Cake is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a quiet afternoon treat, this cake is sure to impress. Join me as we explore the delightful world of Easy Orange Drizzle Cake and discover how to make this scrumptious dessert in your own kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 large orange
• Juice of 1 large orange
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for drizzle)
• 2-3 tablespoons orange juice (for drizzle)

Preparing the Batter

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully. 2. **Prepare the Baking Pan**: Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later. 3. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is crucial as it helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent throughout the flour. 4. **Cream Butter and Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The air incorporated during this step will help your cake rise. 5. **Add Eggs and Vanilla**: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and creamy. 6. **Incorporate Orange Zest and Juice**: Add the zest of one large orange and the juice of the same orange to the butter mixture. This will infuse your cake with a delightful citrus flavor. 7. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.

Baking the Cake

8. **Pour Batter into Pan**: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. 9. **Bake**: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking. 10. **Cool the Cake**: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important as it prevents the cake from becoming soggy.

Preparing the Orange Drizzle

11. **Make the Drizzle**: While the cake is cooling, prepare the orange drizzle. In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of orange juice. Whisk until smooth. The consistency should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a little more orange juice; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar. 12. **Taste Test**: Give the drizzle a little taste. If you want a stronger orange flavor, feel free to add a bit more zest or juice. This is your cake, after all!

Assembling the Cake

13. **Drizzle the Cake**: Once the cake is completely cool, place it on a serving plate. Use a spoon or a small whisk to drizzle the orange glaze over the top of the cake. Let it drip down the sides for a beautiful presentation. 14. **Let it Set**: Allow the drizzle to set for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will help the glaze firm up a bit, making it easier to cut and serve. 15. **Slice and Serve**: Use a sharp knife to cut the cake into slices. Serve it as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Storage Tips

16. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because this cake is so delicious!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week, but I recommend bringing it back to room temperature before serving

Conclusion:

In summary, this Easy Orange Drizzle Cake is a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a delightful dessert that’s both simple to make and bursting with flavor. The bright, zesty notes of orange combined with the moist, tender crumb create a cake that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon tea or a festive gathering. For serving suggestions, I love to pair this cake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the citrusy goodness. You can also experiment with variations by adding a handful of poppy seeds for a delightful crunch or swapping out the orange for lemon or lime for a different citrus twist. I encourage you to give this Easy Orange Drizzle Cake a try and share your experience with friends and family. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag me on social media; I can’t wait to see your delicious creations! Happy baking! Print