Introduction

This Orange Butter Cake is a citrus lover’s dream! Moist, buttery, and bursting with bright orange flavor, this cake is the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. The addition of fresh orange zest and juice infuses every bite with a refreshing aroma. To elevate the cake even further, it’s topped with a glossy orange glaze and a sprinkle of zest, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a light dessert, a snack with tea, or a showstopper for brunch, this Orange Butter Cake will become a new favorite!

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup whole milk
• ¼ cup fresh orange juice (from about 1-2 oranges)
• 1 tablespoon orange zest (plus more for topping)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Orange Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• ½ teaspoon orange zest

Topping:

• Extra orange zest (for garnish)

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Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

• In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Flavorings

• Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• Mix in the orange zest and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk

• Reduce the mixer speed to low.
• Add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk and orange juice. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until incorporated.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Orange Glaze

• In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth and glossy. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more orange juice.

Step 8: Glaze the Cake

• Once the cake has cooled, pour the orange glaze over the top, letting it drip down the sides.
• Sprinkle extra orange zest on top for a vibrant finish.

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COOKING Note

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• If the glaze is too runny, add more powdered sugar; if it’s too thick, add a few drops of orange juice.
• This cake can also be baked in a loaf pan or as cupcakes—just adjust the baking time accordingly.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve the cake as is with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
• For a decadent touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• This cake makes a perfect brunch dessert or afternoon snack.

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Tips

1. Make It Ahead: The cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store it covered at room temperature.
2. Add Some Texture: Mix in poppy seeds or slivered almonds for extra crunch.
3. Citrus Variations: Swap out orange juice for lemon or lime juice to create different citrus butter cakes.
4. Glaze Alternative: Try adding a drizzle of chocolate ganache for a different flavor pairing.

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Prep Time

15 minutes

Baking Time

35-40 minutes

Total Time

55 minutes

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 340
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 180mg

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Conclusion

This Orange Butter Cake is a delightful combination of rich, buttery texture and bright citrus flavor. The orange glaze and zest topping add the perfect finishing touch, making each bite refreshing and sweet. Simple to make and perfect for any occasion, this cake will become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, the combination of orange and butter will have everyone coming back for more!

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