Orange Cake

The Orange Cake is a vibrant and zesty dessert that captures the essence of sunny days. It’s the perfect combination of sweet and citrusy, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a moist and flavorful cake that will brighten up your day.

Ingredients:

• 200g butter, at room temperature
• 200g sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 200g wheat flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• Zest of 2 oranges
• Juice of 1 orange
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. In a mixing bowl, cream the room-temperature butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This can be done with a hand mixer or a stand mixer.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

1. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, sift together the wheat flour and baking powder. Add a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar-egg mixture. Mix until just combined.

Step 5: Add Orange Zest and Juice

1. Zest the two oranges and add the zest to the batter. Be cautious not to include the bitter white pith.
2. Squeeze the juice from one of the oranges and add it to the batter. This will infuse the cake with a lovely citrus flavor.

Step 6: Incorporate Vanilla Extract

1. Stir in the vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 7: Bake

1. Pour the cake batter into the prepared round cake pan.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the Orange Cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Once cooled, you can dust the cake with powdered sugar or serve it with a dollop of whipped cream for an added touch of sweetness.

Notes:

• This Orange Cake can be transformed into an elegant dessert by drizzling a simple orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the top.
• You can experiment with different types of oranges, like blood oranges, for a unique twist on the flavor.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, add a handful of poppy seeds for a delightful crunch and a pop of color.

Zesty Orange Cake is a delightful dessert that radiates the fresh, vibrant flavors of citrus. It’s a versatile treat that’s perfect for afternoon tea, special occasions, or whenever you need a burst of sunshine on your plate. With its moist crumb and bright taste, this cake is sure to become a beloved addition to your baking repertoire.