There’s something inherently heartwarming about the aroma of spices mingling with the zesty sweetness of oranges. Our Orange Spice Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an aromatic embrace that brings families together, especially during seasonal celebrations. This cake is perfect for enhancing the cheer of a holiday gathering or simply adding a touch of cozy magic to any day. Crafted with love and creativity, this moist and fragrant cake, adorned with a light glaze and vibrant orange zest, will undoubtedly become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 large eggs
  • Zest of 1 large orange
  • 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whole milk

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan and set aside.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and butter. Beat until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until incorporated.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Once cooled, drizzle with a light glaze made of powdered sugar and a splash of orange juice, and garnish with fresh orange zest.

Helpful Tips

For a more rich and intense flavor, try adding a splash of bourbon to the glaze. If you prefer a nuttier texture, fold in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking. The Orange Spice Cake also pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Simply wrap it in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have fresh oranges, substitute with bottled orange juice and dried orange zest. You can also replace the butter with an equal amount of oil or a plant-based butter to make it dairy-free.

Pairings

Complement your Orange Spice Cake with a warm cup of spiced tea or a hot toddy. Fresh fruits and a light, zesty salad make excellent side dishes, enhancing the cake’s flavors without overpowering them.

We hope this Orange Spice Cake brings warmth and happiness to your home. We encourage you to share your beautiful creations with us using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. Your feedback is always welcome at Zynahz. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and follow Zynahz on social media for more delightful recipes. Happy baking!

Last Update: November 28, 2024