Orange Pound Cake

Fragrant and moist, Orange Pound Cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a sweet snack, this cake stands out with its vibrant flavor from freshly squeezed orange juice and zest. Its tender crumb and lovely citrus aroma make it a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Orange Pound Cake requires just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Flavorful Delight: The combination of orange juice and zest infuses the cake with a refreshing citrus flavor that brightens every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea!
• Perfect for Special Occasions: This cake is an ideal choice for birthdays, holidays, or brunch gatherings where you want to impress your guests.
• Moist Texture: The addition of melted butter ensures a rich and moist texture that keeps the cake deliciously tender.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools to make preparation smooth and easy.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf tin (10 x 4.5 inches / 25 x 10 cm)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Sifter
• Measuring cups
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf tin: This specific size is essential for achieving the right shape and bake time for your Orange Pound Cake.
• Whisk: A good whisk helps incorporate air into the eggs and sugar mixture, which is crucial for creating a light and fluffy cake.
• Sifter: Sifting flour with baking powder ensures even distribution of leavening agents, leading to a consistent rise in your cake.

Ingredients

This Orange Pound Cake features simple yet flavorful ingredients:

For the Cake

• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup (160g) caster sugar
• 1 ⅓ cup (160g) all-purpose flour, sifted
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• ⅔ cup (150g) salted butter, melted
• 1 orange (juice + zest)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Orange Pound Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease your loaf tin thoroughly to ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and caster sugar until pale and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mix, which is vital for a light texture.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift in the all-purpose flour alongside the baking powder. Stir well to combine everything without over-mixing.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Add melted butter along with the freshly squeezed orange juice and zest. Stir well until everything is fully combined and smooth.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf tin. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready!

Allow your Orange Pound Cake to cool completely before serving. Enjoy every bite of this citrusy delight!

How to Serve Orange Pound Cake

Serving your delightful Orange Pound Cake can elevate any gathering or make a simple dessert feel special. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this moist and fragrant cake.

With Fresh Berries

• Top slices of Orange Pound Cake with a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a burst of flavor and color.

A Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• Lightly dust the cake with powdered sugar before serving. This adds a touch of sweetness and an elegant presentation.

Whipped Cream

• Serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side. The creaminess complements the citrus notes wonderfully.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Enjoy a slice with a scoop of vanilla or orange-flavored ice cream. The cold treat contrasts beautifully with the warm cake.

Citrus Glaze Drizzle

• Drizzle a simple citrus glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over each slice for extra sweetness and zesty flavor.

Tea or Coffee

• Pair your Orange Pound Cake with a cup of tea or coffee. The flavors meld together for an enjoyable afternoon treat.

How to Perfect Orange Pound Cake

Perfecting your Orange Pound Cake is easy with these helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your cake comes out moist, flavorful, and perfectly baked.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Always use fresh eggs, quality butter, and freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor.
• Sift Flour – Sifting flour ensures there are no lumps and helps create a lighter texture in your pound cake.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined after adding the dry ingredients to prevent a dense cake.
• Check Oven Temperature – Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
• Cool Properly – Allow the cake to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Store Correctly – Store leftover Orange Pound Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Pound Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Orange Pound Cake can enhance its flavor profile and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Citrus Salad – A refreshing salad made with mixed greens, grapefruit, and mandarin oranges that complements the cake’s citrus notes.
2. Roasted Almonds – Crunchy roasted almonds add texture and contrast beautifully against the soft pound cake.
3. Chocolate Sauce – Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the cake provides a rich flavor that pairs nicely with orange.
4. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a light dessert that balances richness.
5. Fruit Compote – A homemade fruit compote made from seasonal fruits adds sweetness and moisture when served over the cake.
6. Cheese Platter – Include cheeses like goat cheese or brie that can offset the sweet aspects of the pound cake for an interesting taste combination.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect Orange Pound Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using stale ingredients: Always check your baking powder and flour for freshness. Expired ingredients can lead to a dense cake.
• Skipping the zest: The orange zest adds essential flavor. Don’t skip it! Grate the outer peel carefully to avoid bitterness.
• Not measuring accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. Baking is a science, and accuracy matters in getting that perfect rise.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture instead of the soft, moist crumb you want.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Ensure your oven is properly preheated. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and cake texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Orange Pound Cake in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 5 days in the fridge.
• Consider wrapping it in plastic wrap for extra freshness.

Freezing Orange Pound Cake

• Wrap the cooled pound cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Orange Pound Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C). Place slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm each slice for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Orange Pound Cake:

How do I enhance the flavor of my Orange Pound Cake?

Adding more orange zest or a splash of orange liqueur can intensify the flavor profile.

Can I use other citrus fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute lemons or limes for an exciting twist on this classic Orange Pound Cake.

What is the best way to serve Orange Pound Cake?

Serve it plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar. It pairs well with fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

How long does it take to make Orange Pound Cake?

The total time is about 50 minutes, which includes prep and baking time.

Final Thoughts

This delightful Orange Pound Cake is not only fragrant but also incredibly moist, making it a crowd-pleaser. Its versatility allows for various customizations—think different citrus flavors or toppings—that suit any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy its bright flavors!

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Orange Pound Cake

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Indulge in the delightful charm of Orange Pound Cake, a moist and fragrant dessert that brings a burst of citrus flavor to any occasion. This easy-to-make cake features the zesty goodness of fresh orange juice and zest, creating a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. Ideal for gatherings, birthdays, or simply as a sweet snack with your morning coffee, this cake is sure to impress. With its vibrant flavor and versatility in serving options—from pairing with fresh berries to drizzling with citrus glaze—this Orange Pound Cake will quickly become a household favorite.

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 large eggs
• ¾ cup caster sugar
• 1 ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (sifted)
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• ⅔ cup salted butter (melted)
• Juice and zest of 1 orange

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a loaf tin.
2. Whisk eggs and sugar in a large bowl until pale and fluffy.
3. Sift in flour and baking powder; mix gently to combine.
4. Add melted butter, orange juice, and zest; stir until smooth.
5. Pour batter into the tin and bake for about 40 minutes or until golden brown.

• Author: Natalia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Don't overmix after adding dry ingredients to maintain a light texture. Try variations by substituting other citrus fruits like lemon or lime.