Classic Orange Cake -

There’s something truly delightful about a Classic Orange Cake that encapsulates the essence of sunshine in every slice. Bursting with fresh citrus flavors from the zest and juice, this cake is the perfect blend of light and airy texture, making it ideal for any occasion. Whether served plain or topped with whipped cream, it’s sure to impress.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Classic Orange Cake is not just flavorful; it’s also surprisingly easy to make. The balance of sweet and tart from the oranges brings a refreshing taste to your dessert table. Additionally, it’s a versatile treat that pairs well with coffee for brunch or as a light dessert after dinner. Its appealing presentation makes it perfect for celebration gatherings or simple family dinners. Once you try this cake, it might just become a staple at your home!

Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Classic Orange Cake

Ensure that your eggs are at room temperature for a better cake rise.

Don’t skip the cream of tartar—it helps stabilize the egg whites, bringing more volume to your cake.
Use fresh oranges for zest and juice; bottled juice won’t give you the same vibrant flavor.
Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to maintain its fluffy structure.

Consider adding an orange glaze or zest garnish for added flair.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients needed to create this delicious cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour

4 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 ½ cups sugar, divided (1 cup for the cake, ½ cup for egg whites)

½ cup neutral-tasting oil, such as safflower
6 large eggs, separated
2 tablespoons finely grated orange zest

½ cup fresh orange juice (from 2 to 3 navel or Valencia oranges)
¼ cup cold water
¼ teaspoon cream of tartar

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your Classic Orange Cake:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 3: In another bowl, mix together 1 cup of sugar and the oil until well combined.
Step 4: Add the egg yolks, zest, orange juice, and cold water to the sugar-oil mixture, mixing thoroughly.
Step 5: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 6: In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining ½ cup of sugar, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
Step 7: Gently fold a third of the egg whites into the batter to lighten it, then carefully fold in the remaining egg whites until no streaks remain.
Step 8: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

Step 9: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of citrus? Yes, you can use lemons, limes, or even grapefruit for a different flavor profile.

2. Can this cake be made ahead of time? Absolutely! The cake can be baked a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
3. Is it possible to freeze this cake? Yes, you can wrap the cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
4. What can I serve with this cake? Whipped cream, fresh fruit, or a light citrus glaze all pair beautifully with this orange cake.

5. Why is my cake dense? A dense cake may be a result of overmixing the batter or not beating the egg whites adequately.

Conclusion

The Classic Orange Cake is a delightful citrus treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its light, airy texture and refreshing flavor, it’s bound to be a hit among guests and family. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to baking a cake that not only looks impressive but tastes incredible. Be prepared for the compliments to roll in as everyone savors this sensational dessert!