Best Orange Cake Recipe – Moist, Fresh, Zesty Citrus Cake

Orange Cake Recipe – Few desserts capture the uplifting freshness of citrus quite like a well-made orange cake. With its soft, buttery crumb and naturally bright flavor, this cake offers the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and aromatic. The scent of oranges alone brings comfort and warmth, and when baked into a tender sponge, the result is a truly refreshing dessert suitable for any season or occasion.

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Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: International / Bakery

• Course: Dessert

• Servings: 10–12 slices

• Calories per Serving: ~360 kcal

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Active Baking Time: 35 minutes

• Resting/Cooling Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ¼ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 3 large eggs

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil or melted butter

• ¾ cup (180ml) fresh orange juice

• 2 tbsp fresh orange zest

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls

• Electric hand or stand mixer

• Whisk

• Rubber spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• 9-inch round or loaf cake pan

• Parchment paper

• Cooling rack

• Zester or microplane

Instructions 

Step 1: Prepare Your Cake Pan

Start by greasing a 9-inch round cake pan or loaf pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Flour

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Salt

Ensure they are well combined so the cake rises evenly.

Step 3: Beat the Eggs and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar for about 3 minutes until pale and fluffy.

This step helps build structure and ensures the cake is light.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients

To the egg-sugar mixture, add:

• Oil or melted butter

• Fresh orange juice

• Orange zest

• Vanilla extract

• Yogurt or sour cream (if using)

Mix until smooth and fragrant. The zest enhances the citrus aroma beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture in two portions.
Use a spatula to gently fold the batter until no dry streaks remain.

Avoid overmixing—this keeps the cake soft and airy.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for:

• 30–38 minutes for a round pan

• 40–45 minutes for a loaf pan

The cake is done when:

• A toothpick comes out clean

• The top springs back when touched

• The cake is golden and aromatic

Step 7: Cool the Cake

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack.
Cool completely—about 1 hour—before adding the glaze.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values; glaze changes totals slightly.

Tips for the Perfect Orange Cake

1. Use Fresh Oranges Only

Bottled juice lacks the depth of flavor and aroma.

2. Zest Before Juicing

Zesting after juicing is messy and difficult.

3. Do Not Overmix the Batter

A few gentle folds keep the cake fluffy.

4. Add Yogurt or Sour Cream for Extra Moistness

This gives the cake a velvety, bakery-style crumb.

5. Enhance Flavor with a Syrup Soak

Brush warm cake with 2 tbsp orange juice mixed with 1 tbsp sugar.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream

• Top with whipped cream and fresh orange slices

• Pair with tea or iced coffee

• Dust with powdered sugar for a minimal look

This cake works beautifully for brunch gatherings, birthday celebrations, picnics, and afternoon tea.

Conclusion

This citrus-infused dessert is a wonderful combination of bright flavors, soft texture, and homemade warmth. Fresh orange juice and zest bring natural vibrance to the sponge, while the optional glaze enhances its sweetness and shine. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple, reliable, and rewarding. Its freshness makes it perfect for spring and summer, while its comforting aroma makes it a year-round favorite.