Orange Zest Cake

This light and aromatic Orange Zest Cake is a simple yet delicious dessert perfect for any occasion. The zesty orange flavor combined with the sweetness of sugar and buttery texture makes this cake irresistible. A dusting of icing sugar on top adds the perfect finishing touch to this easy-to-make treat!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 eggs
  • Pinch of salt
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • Juice of half an orange
  • 100g sugar
  • 80g melted butter
  • 180g flour
  • 8g baking powder
  • Icing sugar (for dusting)

Directions:

  • Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 175ยฐC (350ยฐF). Grease and flour a 25x13cm baking pan.
  • Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, pinch of salt, orange zest, and orange juice. Add the sugar and melted butter, mixing until smooth.
  • Add Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour and baking powder into the wet mixture and stir until fully combined.
  • Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Cool and Dust: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. Once cooled, dust with icing sugar before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

  1. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
  2. Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
  3. Serve with fresh berries on the side for a fruity twist.
  4. Top with a drizzle of honey or chocolate syrup for extra sweetness.
  5. Enjoy as a simple dessert on its own for a light indulgence.

Cooking Tips:

  • Make sure to use fresh orange zest for the best flavor.
  • If you like a stronger orange flavor, you can increase the amount of zest or juice.
  • Let the cake cool completely before dusting with icing sugar to prevent it from melting into the cake.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Oranges provide a good source of vitamin C, which supports immune function.
  • Eggs are rich in protein, promoting healthy muscle growth.
  • Butter offers a rich source of healthy fats, contributing to energy and flavor.

Dietary Information:

  • Contains dairy and eggs.
  • Suitable for those without gluten intolerance (use gluten-free flour for substitution).

Nutritional Facts (per serving, approx.):

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 18g

Storage:

  • Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.

Why Youโ€™ll Love This Recipe:
This cake is light yet flavorful, with the perfect balance of sweetness and citrusy zest. Itโ€™s easy to prepare, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned bakers. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it a great go-to dessert, perfect for any occasion.


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Conclusion:
This Orange Zest Cake is an ideal choice for anyone who loves a fresh, citrusy dessert with a light, tender crumb. The combination of orange zest and juice elevates the flavor, while the icing sugar adds a beautiful finish. Easy to make and delicious, itโ€™s sure to become a new favorite!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use a different citrus fruit instead of orange?
    Yes, lemon or lime zest and juice can be used as a substitute for orange.
  2. Can I make this cake without eggs?
    Yes, you can use an egg replacer like flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water for a vegan version.
  3. Can I make the cake in a different size pan?
    Yes, you can adjust the baking time depending on the size of your pan. A smaller pan may require less baking time, while a larger one may require more.
  4. Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the cake?
    Yes, chopped almonds, walnuts, or dried cranberries can be added for texture.
  5. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
    Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance and store it in an airtight container.
  6. How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
    Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
  7. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
    Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
  8. What if I donโ€™t have baking powder?
    You can substitute baking powder with 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of vinegar.
  9. How can I make this cake more moist?
    Adding a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt to the batter can help increase moisture.
  10. Can I freeze this cake?
    Yes, the cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap.