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 175°C (350°F). 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:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
- Serve with fresh berries on the side for a fruity twist.
- Top with a drizzle of honey or chocolate syrup for extra sweetness.
- 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 You’ll Love This Recipe:
This cake is light yet flavorful, with the perfect balance of sweetness and citrusy zest. It’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.
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, it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- 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. - 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. - 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. - Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the cake?
Yes, chopped almonds, walnuts, or dried cranberries can be added for texture. - 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. - 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. - 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. - What if I don’t have baking powder?
You can substitute baking powder with 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of vinegar. - How can I make this cake more moist?
Adding a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt to the batter can help increase moisture. - 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.