Orange Loaf Cake

Unbelievably moist and bursting with fresh orange flavor, this Orange Loaf Cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. Made with olive oil and yogurt, it offers a lighter take on traditional cakes while still delivering an irresistible sweetness. Let’s dive into the details of this fantastic recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: You only need basic pantry staples to whip up this delicious cake.
• Moist Texture: The combination of yogurt and olive oil results in an incredibly moist loaf that stays fresh for days.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, dusted with icing sugar, or drizzled with a glaze—perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack.
• Fresh Orange Flavor: Bursting with citrus goodness from fresh orange juice and zest, this cake is a refreshing treat.
• Quick Prep Time: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this cake in the oven in no time.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your baking adventure, gather the necessary tools to make your Orange Loaf Cake come together smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan (8.5 x 4.5 inch)
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Ensures your cake bakes evenly in the classic loaf shape.
• Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls helps keep wet and dry ingredients organized.
• Whisk: Perfect for thoroughly combining ingredients, ensuring a smooth batter without lumps.

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Ingredients

To make this delightful Orange Loaf Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt (see note)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup olive oil (or vegetable or canola oil)

For Dusting

• Icing sugar

How to Make Orange Loaf Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your loaf pan to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Salt

This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agent for a perfectly risen loaf.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together:
1. Plain Greek yogurt
2. Granulated sugar
3. Eggs
4. Orange zest
5. Freshly squeezed orange juice
6. Vanilla extract

Whisk these ingredients until smooth before adding the next ingredient.

Step 4: Add Olive Oil

Slowly whisk in the olive oil until fully combined with the wet mixture.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gently add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture using a rubber spatula:
– Stir until just combined—be careful not to over-mix!

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan:
– Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes or until golden brown on top.
– A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let cool in the pan for about 20 minutes:
– Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
– Dust with icing sugar before serving if desired, or drizzle with optional glaze (see recipe notes).

Enjoy sharing this delightful Orange Loaf Cake at your next gathering!

How to Serve Orange Loaf Cake

Orange loaf cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve it as a breakfast item, a dessert, or an afternoon snack, these suggestions will enhance your experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve slices with mixed berries or citrus slices for a refreshing contrast.

Accompanied by Yogurt

• Pair with a dollop of plain yogurt for added creaminess and tang.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a light layer of whipped cream for an indulgent touch.

Drizzled with Honey

• A drizzle of honey can enhance the sweetness and create a beautiful presentation.

Alongside Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy your orange loaf cake with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy treat.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include it in a brunch buffet for an inviting centerpiece alongside other pastries.

How to Perfect Orange Loaf Cake

Creating the perfect orange loaf cake requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use fresh oranges: Freshly squeezed juice and zest from oranges will provide the most vibrant flavor.
• Measure accurately: Ensure you measure flour and other ingredients correctly to maintain the right texture.
• Don’t over-mix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Check doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the center is fully baked; it should come out clean.
• Cool properly: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan before transferring it to avoid crumbling.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Loaf Cake

Serving orange loaf cake alongside complementary dishes can elevate your meal. Here’s a list of perfect side dishes to pair with it.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   A layered parfait with Greek yogurt, fruit, and granola adds texture and nutrition.

2. Citrus Salad
   A fresh salad with mixed greens, segmented oranges, and a light vinaigrette enhances the citrus theme.

3. Almond Biscotti
   Crunchy almond biscotti make a great accompaniment for dipping into coffee or tea.

4. Fruit Smoothie
   Blend up a refreshing fruit smoothie with bananas and berries for a nutritious pairing.

5. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses pairs well, balancing sweetness with savory flavors.

6. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts bring crunch and can complement the softness of the loaf cake nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Orange Loaf Cake is easy, but there are common pitfalls you should be aware of.

• Using the wrong flour: If you use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour, the texture might turn out too soft. Stick to all-purpose for the best results.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can lead to a dense loaf. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Over-mixing the batter: Mixing too much can result in a tough cake. Combine just until no dry flour remains for a light texture.
• Skipping the zest: Orange zest adds essential flavor. Don’t skip it; ensure you include fresh zest for that vibrant taste.
• Ignoring cooling time: Cutting into the cake too soon can make it crumble. Allow it to cool properly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Orange Loaf Cake in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Loaf Cake

• Wrap slices or whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Loaf Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 20-30 seconds on medium power, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slice in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for 2-3 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making an Orange Loaf Cake.

What makes this Orange Loaf Cake so moist?

The combination of yogurt and olive oil contributes to its moist texture, while fresh orange juice enhances its flavor.

Can I substitute other flavors into this Orange Loaf Cake?

Absolutely! You can experiment with lemon zest or lime juice for a citrus twist while keeping the basic recipe intact.

How do I know when my Orange Loaf Cake is done baking?

A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean, and the top should be golden brown when it’s fully baked.

What variations can I try with my Orange Loaf Cake?

You can add poppy seeds, nuts, or even chocolate chips to elevate the flavor and texture of your loaf cake.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Loaf Cake is not only unbelievably moist but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different citrus flavors or add-ins to suit your taste. We encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon snack!