Unbelievably moist and bursting with fresh orange flavor, this Orange Loaf Cake is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Its unique combination of olive oil and yogurt not only makes it healthier but also adds a rich texture that keeps each slice tender and flavorful. Whether you serve it for breakfast, as a snack, or at dessert time, this cake is sure to impress everyone with its bright citrus notes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick prep time, anyone can whip up this delicious loaf cake.
- Bursting with Flavor: The use of fresh orange juice and zest elevates the taste, making every bite refreshing.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack — it’s suitable for any time of day.
- Healthier Option: Made with yogurt and olive oil instead of butter, this cake is a lighter alternative without sacrificing taste.
- Beautiful Presentation: Dust it with icing sugar or drizzle a glaze on top for an elegant touch that’s great for gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having the right equipment on hand will help you create the perfect Orange Loaf Cake effortlessly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Loaf pan (8.5 x 4.5 inch)
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf pan: Essential for shaping your cake; ensures even baking.
- Mixing bowls: Having both medium and large sizes helps keep ingredients organized during mixing.
- Whisk: Perfect for combining wet ingredients smoothly without clumps.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt
- 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 Garnish
- Icing sugar (for dusting)
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 prevent sticking.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
2. 2 teaspoons baking powder
3. ½ teaspoon salt
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine:
1. 1 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt
2. 1 cup granulated sugar
3. 3 eggs
4. 1 tablespoon orange zest
5. 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
6. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whisk in:
– 1/2 cup olive oil
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Add the dry ingredients from Step 2 into the wet mixture from Step 3. Stir gently until just combined; do not over-mix.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven for:
– 50-55 minutes
Check if done by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when ready.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze if desired before slicing.
Enjoy your deliciously zesty Orange Loaf Cake!
How to Serve Orange Loaf Cake
Serving your Orange Loaf Cake can elevate the overall experience and bring out its delightful flavors. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious treat.
Pair with Fresh Fruits
- Berries: Serve slices of orange loaf cake with a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of color and flavor.
- Citrus Slices: Add lemon or lime slices on the plate to enhance the citrus notes in the cake.
Enjoy with Whipped Cream
- Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the moistness of the cake perfectly.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Experiment with orange-infused whipped cream for an extra layer of flavor.
Serve with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with warm slices of orange loaf cake, creating a comforting dessert experience.
- Citrus Sorbet: For a refreshing twist, opt for a citrus sorbet that will contrast nicely with the cake’s sweetness.
How to Perfect Orange Loaf Cake
To ensure your Orange Loaf Cake turns out moist and flavorful every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps in creating a uniform batter, resulting in a more even bake.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is calibrated correctly; an incorrect temperature can affect baking time and doneness.
- Add Extra Zest: Incorporating more orange zest enhances the citrus flavor significantly, making each bite burst with freshness.
- Cool Completely Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool completely ensures it maintains its shape and texture when sliced.
- Store Properly: Keep uneaten cake wrapped in plastic wrap or an airtight container to maintain moisture.
Best Side Dishes for Orange Loaf Cake
To complement your delicious orange loaf cake, consider serving it alongside these tasty side dishes. They can enhance your meal or provide delightful contrasts in flavor.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing addition that balances sweetness.
- Fruit Salad: A light and zesty fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich cake.
- Herbed Cheese Spread: Serve with a tangy cheese spread on crackers for a savory contrast to the sweet loaf.
- Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with spices add crunch and depth, making for an exciting pairing.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage like coffee or tea complements the citrus flavor while providing warmth.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted dark chocolate over slices for added decadence, perfect for chocolate lovers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking an Orange Loaf Cake can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final product. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold yogurt and eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always use room temperature ingredients for better blending.
- Skipping the zest: Orange zest adds essential flavor. Don’t skip it; it enhances the orange taste significantly.
- Not checking for doneness: Relying solely on baking time can cause undercooking or overcooking. Always do the toothpick test!
- Storing improperly: Storing the cake incorrectly can dry it out. Use airtight containers to keep it moist.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep in the main compartment, not in the door, for better temperature stability.
Freezing Orange Loaf Cake
- Wrap slices or whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Orange Loaf Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Orange Loaf Cake so moist?
The use of yogurt and olive oil provides moisture while keeping the cake light and fluffy.
Can I substitute ingredients in this Orange Loaf Cake recipe?
Yes! You can replace Greek yogurt with sour cream or use different oils like vegetable oil if preferred.
How do I know when my Orange Loaf Cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking.
What’s the best way to serve Orange Loaf Cake?
This cake is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with a drizzle of glaze or fresh fruit on top.
Final Thoughts
This Orange Loaf Cake is not only incredibly moist but also bursting with vibrant orange flavor, making it perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snack time. Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding nuts or other citrus fruits. We encourage you to give this easy recipe a try and enjoy every slice!
Orange Loaf Cake
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Orange Loaf Cake, a moist and zesty treat perfect for any occasion. Made with wholesome ingredients like Greek yogurt and olive oil, this cake offers a healthier alternative without compromising on taste. The bright citrus notes from fresh orange juice and zest create an invigorating experience with every bite. Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, it’s also simple to prepare and beautifully presented with a dusting of icing sugar or a glaze. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet moment at home, this Orange Loaf Cake is sure to impress.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease/flour an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, sugar, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until combined; then whisk in the olive oil.
- Gently add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined—avoid overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: To enhance flavor, add extra orange zest. Substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream if desired. For variation, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips.
