Easy Orange Cake

This Easy Orange Cake is a delightful treat that brings the flavors of summer right to your kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, this cake features a moist texture and vibrant orange taste, making it a crowd-pleaser at picnics, parties, or family gatherings. With its layers of cream cheese frosting, mandarin oranges, and sweet marmalade, it’s sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: This easy orange cake recipe requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh oranges and creamy frosting creates a deliciously zesty taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for summer barbecues, birthday celebrations, or simply as an afternoon treat with tea or coffee.
• Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant color from the orange food coloring and the mandarin slices make this cake visually appealing.
• Satisfying Texture: Moist and soft, this cake melts in your mouth, making each slice irresistible.

Tools and Preparation

To make this easy orange cake, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure your baking goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cake pans (8×2 inches)
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: These are crucial for combining ingredients without spills or mess.
• Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate air into your batter, ensuring a light and fluffy cake.
• Cake pans: Using the correct size ensures even baking and proper structure for your layers.

Ingredients

This soft, moist, easy orange cake recipe from scratch is loaded with cream cheese frosting, mandarin oranges, orange marmalade, and lots of fresh orange zest. It’s the perfect summer dessert!

For the Cake

• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1.5 tsp Baking powder
• 2 Eggs (Large)
• 1/4 cup Butter (Unsalted, Melted)
• 2 cups Granulated sugar
• 1 cup Buttermilk
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1 tsp Orange extract
• 2 tbsp Orange zest
• Orange food coloring (Adjust quantity according to how vibrant you want the cake)

For Frosting and Filling

• 3 cups Cream cheese frosting
• 1 cup Orange marmalade (or Jam)
• 1 cup Mandarin orange slices (Patted dry on paper towels)

How to Make Easy Orange Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. This will make the process smoother.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the eggs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until fully combined.

Step 4: Add Buttermilk and Extracts

Pour in the buttermilk along with vanilla extract, orange extract, orange zest, and a few drops of orange food coloring. Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Add the flour mixture to your wet ingredients. Gently mix until just combined; be careful not to over-mix.

Step 6: Bake

Pour your batter into two greased/floured round cake pans. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool completely before removing them from the pans. Once cooled, cut off any domes or stiff edges.

Step 8: Assemble Your Cake

Place one layer on a cake stand. Spread a thin layer of orange marmalade followed by a thick layer of cream cheese frosting. Add some mandarin slices if desired.

Step 9: Finish Assembling

Top with the second layer of cake. Spread another thin layer of marmalade followed by another thick layer of cream cheese frosting. Garnish with more mandarin slices as desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Orange Cake

Serving Easy Orange Cake can be as delightful as making it. This cake is bright, vibrant, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy gathering. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Strawberries: Pair with sliced strawberries for a fresh, fruity contrast.
• Blueberries: Add blueberries on the side for a pop of color and flavor.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream complements the cake’s richness.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding orange zest to the whipped cream for extra citrus flair.

Garnished with Mint Leaves

• Fresh Mint: Use mint leaves as a garnish for a refreshing touch that balances sweetness.

Drizzled with Citrus Glaze

• Orange Glaze: A light glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice will add an extra layer of sweetness and shine.

Served Chilled

• Refrigerate: Serve the cake chilled for a refreshing treat on warm days.

How to Perfect Easy Orange Cake

To ensure your Easy Orange Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing eggs and buttermilk to room temperature helps create a smoother batter, leading to a lighter cake.
• Don’t over-mix: Mix until just combined to avoid a dense texture; over-mixing can lead to tough cake.
• Check doneness early: Ovens vary in temperature; check your cake 5 minutes before the recommended baking time.
• Cool completely: Allow the cakes to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting your cream cheese frosting.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Orange Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Orange Cake can elevate your dessert spread. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Citrus Salad: A refreshing mix of oranges, grapefruits, and mint adds brightness.
2. Ice Cream: Vanilla or coconut ice cream provides a creamy balance to the cake’s sweetness.
3. Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote made from mixed berries makes an excellent topping option.
4. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like mascarpone or ricotta can enhance the citrus notes of the cake.
5. Tea or Coffee: Serve with herbal tea or coffee for a cozy pairing that enhances flavors.
6. Pistachio Cookies: Crunchy pistachio cookies offer contrast and add variety to your dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, but avoiding some common mistakes can make your Easy Orange Cake turn out perfectly every time.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Ensure you measure flour and sugar correctly. Use a kitchen scale for precision to avoid a dense cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a tough texture. Stir until just combined for a soft, moist cake.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the cakes to cool completely before frosting is crucial. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Always preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. An unheated oven can affect baking times and results.
• Using fresh orange slices directly: Patted dry mandarin oranges are essential to avoid excess moisture in your cake, which can make it soggy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the Easy Orange Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5-7 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Easy Orange Cake

• Wrap each layer individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months without losing its flavor.

Reheating Easy Orange Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds on medium power. Avoid overheating, as it can dry out the cake.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Easy Orange Cake without buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

How do I achieve vibrant orange color in my cake?

Adjust the amount of orange food coloring according to your preference. Start with a few drops and add more until you reach the desired vibrancy.

Can I use different citrus fruits?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with lemons or limes for a unique twist on this Easy Orange Cake recipe.

What’s the best way to frost my cake?

Use an offset spatula for spreading cream cheese frosting evenly. A rotating cake stand also helps achieve smooth layers.

How do I store leftover cream cheese frosting?

Store any leftover cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You may need to re-whip it before using again.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Orange Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for various occasions. With its bright flavors and creamy frosting, it’s sure to be a hit during summer gatherings or celebrations. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite citrus fruits or toppings!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Easy Orange Cake

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with this Easy Orange Cake! This moist and fluffy dessert is layered with creamy frosting, zesty orange marmalade, and juicy mandarin oranges, making it a perfect centerpiece for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, celebrating a birthday, or enjoying an afternoon treat, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. Its eye-catching presentation and melt-in-your-mouth texture are complemented by a delightful burst of citrus flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Simple enough for beginner bakers yet satisfying for seasoned pros, this Easy Orange Cake is the ultimate go-to recipe for deliciousness.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups All-purpose flour
• 1.5 tsp Baking powder
• 2 Large Eggs
• 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (melted)
• 2 cups Granulated Sugar
• 1 cup Buttermilk
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1 tsp Orange extract
• 2 tbsp Orange zest
• 3 cups Cream cheese frosting
• 1 cup Orange marmalade
• 1 cup Mandarin orange slices

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder; set aside.
3. In another bowl, mix eggs, melted butter, and sugar until combined.
4. Add buttermilk, vanilla extract, orange extract, orange zest, and food coloring; mix until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting and layering with orange marmalade and mandarin slices.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 30g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 70mg