Orange Cake with Zesty Cream Cheese Frosting is a vibrant and delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This dessert combines the refreshing taste of fresh oranges with a creamy frosting that adds a zesty twist. The combination is so delightful that it will inevitably leave your taste buds buzzing with joy! Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a family gathering, or simply indulging yourself, this cake is bound to impress.
The magic begins with the cake itself, which is light, moist, and bursting with bright citrus flavor. Each slice reveals not just delectable orange notes, but also a subtle sweetness complemented by the zesty cream cheese frosting. If you’ve ever craved a dessert that balances sweetness and tartness seamlessly, look no further than this amazing recipe. In this article, you’ll explore why this cake deserves a spot in your recipe collection, learn how to make it step-by-step, and discover the best ways to serve it.
Baking this Orange Cake with Zesty Cream Cheese Frosting isn’t just about creating a dessert; it’s about crafting a joyous experience. With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, both novice and experienced bakers can bring this cake to life. Let’s dive into what makes this cake an essential addition to your dessert repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore this Orange Cake with Zesty Cream Cheese Frosting. Here are a few standout points:
1. Bright Flavor Profile: The bright, zesty flavor of oranges takes center stage, providing a refreshing twist that lingers on your palate.
2. Moist and Fluffy Texture: The cake’s moist crumb is complemented by the creamy frosting, creating a delightful contrast in each bite.
3. Easy to Prepare: The recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers at any skill level.
4. Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a bridal shower, or a casual evening, this cake fits right in.
5. Stunning Appearance: The vibrant orange color, crowned with creamy frosting, makes for a visually appealing dessert.
6. Make Ahead Option: You can bake this cake a day in advance, making it an ideal choice for busy schedules.
With all these wonderful features, it’s no wonder that this Orange Cake is a favorite among those who give it a try!
Preparation and Cooking Time
Creating the delightful Orange Cake with Zesty Cream Cheese Frosting doesn’t take much time at all! Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
– Preparation Time: Approximately 20 minutes
– Cooking Time: Around 30–35 minutes
– Cooling Time: 15–20 minutes
In total, you can have this delightful cake ready in about one hour, making it a fantastic option for last-minute dessert needs.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– Zest of 2 large oranges
– ½ cup fresh orange juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Zesty Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– Zest of 1 orange
– 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this Orange Cake with Zesty Cream Cheese Frosting is enjoyable and straightforward. Follow these steps for the best results:
1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process may take about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Orange Zest: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate the orange zest into the mixture, blending thoroughly.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture. Alternate with the milk and fresh orange juice, ensuring everything is well combined.
6. Pour and Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cake: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 15-20 minutes. Then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
8. Prepare the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until it’s fully incorporated. Then mix in the orange zest and juice.
9. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a generous layer of frosting on the top of one layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
10. Decorate and Serve: Optionally, add some additional orange zest on top for a lovely finishing touch.
How to Serve
To serve the Orange Cake with Zesty Cream Cheese Frosting in style, consider the following suggestions:
1. Presentation: Use a beautiful cake stand to showcase the cake. Elevating the cake can make it even more visually appealing!
2. Accompaniments: Pair each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or some fresh berries to enhance the flavor.
3. Slice Size: Cut elegant, moderate-sized slices. This encourages guests to enjoy seconds without feeling overwhelmed.
4. Beverage Pairing: Serve alongside vibrant herbal teas or a refreshing glass of lemonade for a delightful contrast.
5. Garnishes: Consider adding edible flowers or mint leaves for an extra touch of elegance.
This Orange Cake with Zesty Cream Cheese Frosting is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Your guests will love how aromatic and flavorful it is, making it a worthy addition to any dessert table!
Additional Tips
– Use Fresh Oranges: For the best flavor, always opt for fresh oranges over bottled juice. Fresh zest and juice enhance the cake’s taste significantly.
– Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature before starting. This aids in a smoother batter and frosting.
– Don’t Overmix: Once you combine your wet and dry ingredients, mix until just incorporated. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
– Experiment with Zest: Feel free to add zest from other citrus fruits, like lemons or limes, for an interesting flavor profile.
– Serve with a Twist: Consider pairing the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of citrus syrup for an extra special touch.
Recipe Variation
You can easily modify the recipe to create exciting new flavors. Here are some variations to inspire you:
1. Almond Orange Cake: Add almond extract alongside the vanilla extract for a nutty undertone that pairs wonderfully with the orange flavor.
2. Orange Cranberry Cake: Incorporate dried cranberries into the batter to add a tart contrast to the sweet orange cake.
3. Chocolate Orange Cake: Fold in cocoa powder into half of the batter for a marbled effect, or replace some flour with cocoa for a chocolate-orange delight.
4. Carrot Orange Cake: Add shredded carrots to the batter for a moist twist, making it a delightful carrot-orange fusion.
Freezing and Storage
Proper storage is key to enjoying this Orange Cake with Zesty Cream Cheese Frosting for longer. Here’s how to do it effectively:
– Storage: Keep the cake covered in the fridge if there are leftovers. It will stay fresh for 4-5 days.
– Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Ensure you wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.
Special Equipment
Having the right tools can make all the difference in your baking experience. Here’s a list of essential equipment you’ll need for this cake:
– 9-inch round cake pans: For even baking, make sure they are greased and floured properly.
– Mixing bowls: Having various sizes helps with separation of dry and wet ingredients.
– Electric mixer: A hand or stand mixer will save you time and effort when creaming the butter and sugar.
– Wire rack: For cooling the cake properly after baking, helping to maintain its texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I tell when the cake is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s done.
2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the baking powder is gluten-free as well.
3. Is there a dairy-free option for this cake?
Certainly! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free spread and use almond or oat milk in place of whole milk. For the frosting, try a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.
4. How do I store the cake once I’ve frosted it?
It’s best to keep a frosted cake in the refrigerator. Cover it with a cake dome or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
5. Can I use canned orange juice for this recipe?
While fresh is best, you can use canned orange juice in a pinch. Just ensure it’s 100% orange juice without added sugars or preservatives.
Conclusion
This Orange Cake with Zesty Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful addition to any dessert table. Its unique blend of sweet orange flavor coupled with the creamy, zesty frosting creates an irresistible treat that will leave everyone wanting more. With easy steps and abundant variations, this cake adapts beautifully for any occasion, making it a versatile and unforgettable recipe to keep on hand. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this citrus delight!
Orange Cake with Zesty Cream Cheese Frosting: An Incredible 7-Step Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– Zest of 2 large oranges
– ½ cup fresh orange juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Creating this Orange Cake with Zesty Cream Cheese Frosting is enjoyable and straightforward. Follow these steps for the best results:
1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process may take about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Orange Zest: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Incorporate the orange zest into the mixture, blending thoroughly.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture. Alternate with the milk and fresh orange juice, ensuring everything is well combined.
6. Pour and Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool the Cake: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 15-20 minutes. Then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
8. Prepare the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until it’s fully incorporated. Then mix in the orange zest and juice.
9. Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a generous layer of frosting on the top of one layer. Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
10. Decorate and Serve: Optionally, add some additional orange zest on top for a lovely finishing touch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 4g
