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. As I embarked on my culinary journey, I discovered that this cake not only satisfies a sweet tooth but also carries a rich history rooted in British baking traditions. The combination of zesty orange and a moist, tender crumb creates a symphony of taste and texture that is simply irresistible. People love this dish for its convenience; it requires minimal ingredients and can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. With its vibrant flavor and easy preparation, Easy Orange Drizzle Cake has become a staple in my kitchen, and I can’t wait to share this recipe with you!

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 large orange
• Juice of 1 large orange (about ½ cup)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for the drizzle)
• 2-3 tablespoons orange juice (for the 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 Cake 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, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The air incorporated during this process will help your cake rise. 5. **Add Eggs and Vanilla**: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract and the orange zest. The zest adds a wonderful aroma and flavor to the cake. 6. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter 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. 7. **Incorporate Orange Juice**: Finally, fold in the fresh orange juice. This will add moisture and a lovely citrus flavor to your cake. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.

Baking the Cake

8. **Pour Batter into Pan**: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly. 9. **Bake**: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed. 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 to prevent 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, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2-3 tablespoons of orange juice until smooth. The consistency should be pourable but not too runny. If it’s too thick, add a little more orange juice. 12. **Taste and Adjust**: Taste the drizzle and adjust the sweetness or acidity by adding more powdered sugar or orange juice, depending on your preference.

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. Allow the drizzle to run 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 slice the cake into wedges. Serve it as a delightful dessert or a sweet treat with your afternoon tea or coffee.

Storage Tips

16. **Store 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 for the best flavor and texture. 17. **Freezing the Cake**: If you want to make this cake ahead of time,

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 combination of zesty orange and a moist, tender crumb creates a cake that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon tea or a festive gathering. Plus, the sweet orange drizzle adds a beautiful finish that not only enhances the flavor but also makes it visually appealing. For serving suggestions, I recommend pairing this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence. You can also experiment with variations by adding a hint of almond extract or incorporating poppy seeds for a delightful twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting the orange with lemon or lime for a refreshing citrus alternative. 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! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make your own variations, I’m sure you’ll find it to be a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire. Happy baking! Print