Imagine sinking your teeth into a slice of pure sunshine - a moist, fragrant pound cake that bursts with vibrant orange essence and melts in your mouth! This isn't just another cake recipe; it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a decadent masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, our Orange Pound Cake Loaf promises to elevate your dessert game and fill your kitchen with an intoxicating citrusy aroma that screams comfort and indulgence.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 loaf
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside to ensure smooth, lump-free incorporation later.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium-high speed for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color.
- Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
- Combine the milk, orange juice, vanilla extract, and orange zest in a separate small bowl. Gently mix to blend the liquid ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the liquid mixture. Mix on low speed just until everything is combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake - it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple orange glaze for extra flavor and presentation.
Tips
- Room Temperature is Key: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter, eggs, and milk, are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the batter just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough, dense cake.
- Zest Matters: Use fresh orange zest for maximum flavor impact. Avoid the white pith, which can add bitterness.
- Pan Preparation: Thoroughly grease and flour your pan, or use parchment paper for easy cake removal.
- Oven Accuracy: Use an oven thermometer to ensure precise temperature, as slight variations can affect baking time and results.
- Cooling Technique: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to prevent breaking.
- Storage Tip: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and freshness for up to 3-4 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 95mg
