✔ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
✔ Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or loaf pan.
✅ Lining with parchment paper helps with easy removal!
2️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients
✔ In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
✅ This ensures even mixing and a fluffy texture!
3️⃣ Cream the Butter & Sugar
✔ In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
✔ Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
✔ Mix in orange zest and vanilla extract.
✅ The orange zest enhances the citrus aroma beautifully!
4️⃣ Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
✔ Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with orange juice and milk.
✔ Mix gently until just combined—do not overmix!
✅ Overmixing can make the cake dense—gentle mixing keeps it soft!
5️⃣ Bake to Perfection
✔ Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
✔ Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
✔ Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
✅ Golden brown perfection with a soft, fluffy center!
6️⃣ Make the Orange Glaze
✔ In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest until smooth.
✔ Drizzle over the cooled cake for an extra citrusy finish! 🍊
✅ Adds a beautiful shine and tangy sweetness!
7️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
✔ Slice and serve with tea, coffee, or fresh fruit.
✔ Store at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
✅ Super soft, moist, and full of zesty goodness!
🔥 Variations & Customization
🔹 Orange Almond Cake – Add ½ teaspoon almond extract for a nutty twist! 🌰
🔹 Chocolate Orange Cake – Mix in ½ cup dark chocolate chips 🍫
🔹 Healthier Version – Swap ½ cup flour for whole wheat flour 🌾
🔹 Dairy-Free Option – Use almond or coconut milk instead of dairy 🥥
🥡 Storage & Freezing Tips
✔ Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days.
✔ Refrigerate for up to 5 days (warm slightly before serving).
✔ Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight before eating.
✅ Tastes even better the next day as the orange flavor deepens!
🏆 Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Citrus Cake!
This Moist & Fluffy Orange Cake is bright, citrusy, and absolutely irresistible! Whether for a weekend treat, brunch, or a special occasion, this easy homemade cake is always a hit.
