Orange Loaf Cake

Unbelievably moist and bursting with fresh orange flavor, this Orange Loaf Cake is a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or as a midday snack, its vibrant citrus taste is sure to impress. Made with wholesome ingredients like olive oil and yogurt, this cake offers a healthier twist without compromising on flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve delicious results.
• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of Greek yogurt and fresh orange juice ensures every bite is full of moisture and citrus goodness.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, dusted with icing sugar, or drizzled with a glaze for added sweetness.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This cake works beautifully for brunches, family gatherings, or as a sweet treat after dinner.
• Healthier Choice: Utilizing olive oil instead of butter provides healthy fats while keeping the cake rich and tender.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking your Orange Loaf Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process and make baking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan (8.5 x 4.5 inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Ensures the cake bakes evenly; the right size will give you that perfect loaf shape.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess; using multiple bowls helps in organizing your tasks.
• Whisk: Perfect for incorporating air into your batter; this tool helps achieve a light and fluffy texture.

Ingredients

Unbelievably moist and bursting with fresh orange flavor, this simple orange loaf cake is made with olive oil and yogurt for a healthier, easy-to-make treat.

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)
• 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 an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

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

Whisk in the:
– Olive oil

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture gradually and stir until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix as this can affect the texture of your cake.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake in your preheated oven for about 50-55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done.

Step 6: Cool Down

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar if desired or drizzle with an optional glaze for extra sweetness.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Orange Loaf Cake, perfect for sharing with friends or savoring on your own!

How to Serve Orange Loaf Cake

This moist and flavorful orange loaf cake is versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether you want it as a breakfast treat, a dessert after dinner, or an afternoon snack, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Top each slice with a handful of fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor. The sweetness of the fruit pairs beautifully with the citrusy notes of the cake.

Creamy Yogurt Topping

• Serve slices of the orange loaf cake with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt. The tanginess of the yogurt complements the sweetness of the cake while adding a creamy texture.

Light Glaze

• Drizzle a simple orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice over the top for an extra sweet touch. This glaze adds shine and enhances the orange flavor.

Whipped Cream

• A generous spoonful of whipped cream on top can elevate your slice into a dessert-like experience. You can also add a hint of vanilla extract to the cream for more depth.

Tea Pairing

• Enjoy your orange loaf cake with a cup of herbal tea. The fragrant notes from teas like chamomile or mint can create a refreshing balance to the flavors in the cake.

Ice Cream Side

• For an indulgent treat, serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla or orange-flavored ice cream. The cold ice cream melts slightly into the warm cake, creating a delightful contrast.

How to Perfect Orange Loaf Cake

Making an exceptional orange loaf cake is all about attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh oranges: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest bring vibrant flavor to your cake, making it taste homemade and delicious.
• Don’t over-mix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the loaf light and fluffy rather than dense.
• Check doneness carefully: Use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out clean when inserted into the center. Keep an eye on baking time for best results.
• Cool properly: Allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure.
• Store correctly: To keep your orange loaf cake moist, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Experiment with spices: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and complexity in flavor—just be careful not to overpower the orange essence.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Loaf Cake

Pairing side dishes with your orange loaf cake can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness, making every bite delightful.

2. Chia Seed Pudding
   This healthy option provides a creamy texture that pairs well with citrus flavors; simply prepare it overnight for an easy side.

3. Honeyed Ricotta Toast
   Spread ricotta cheese on toasted bread drizzled with honey; this rich yet light dish complements the zesty notes of the cake.

4. Coconut Yogurt Parfait
   Layer coconut yogurt with granola and fruits for added texture and tropical flair alongside your slice of cake.

5. Savory Cheese Platter
   Include assorted cheeses with sweet spreads like fig jam; this contrast enhances both sweet and savory flavors at once.

6. Herbal Tea Blend
   Choose light herbal teas like chamomile or lemongrass; their delicate flavors enhance the meal without overwhelming taste buds.

7. Granola Bars
   These make perfect snacks alongside slices of orange loaf cake, providing crunchiness that contrasts nicely with softness.

8. Olive Oil Cake
   Another unique twist could be pairing it with olive oil cake; they share similar textures but offer different flavor profiles for variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking your Orange Loaf Cake, be mindful of these common mistakes to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense texture. Stir until just combined for a light, fluffy loaf.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold eggs or yogurt can affect the batter consistency. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using improper measurements can ruin your cake. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Skipping the Zest: Orange zest enhances flavor significantly. Don’t skip this step; it adds a fragrant, citrusy punch.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: An incorrect oven setting may lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the cooled orange loaf cake in an airtight container.
• It will last about 3-5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Orange Loaf Cake

• Wrap slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Loaf Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Warm the loaf for about 10 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making an orange loaf cake.

What makes my Orange Loaf Cake dense?

A dense cake may result from overmixing. Be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients.

Can I use other citrus fruits instead of orange?

Yes! You can substitute lemon or lime for a different flavor profile while following the same recipe.

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

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!

Can I make this Orange Loaf Cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

How should I store leftover Orange Loaf Cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, or freeze them for longer storage as detailed above.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Loaf Cake is not only incredibly moist but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe and enjoy its fresh, zesty taste!