Orange Loaf Cake

Unbelievably moist and bursting with fresh orange flavor, this Orange Loaf Cake is the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at breakfast, as a delightful dessert, or just for a snack, this cake stands out with its vibrant citrus notes and tender crumb. Made healthier with olive oil and yogurt, you can indulge without the guilt. Plus, it’s easy to make and will impress family and friends alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of olive oil and yogurt keeps the cake incredibly moist while infusing it with rich orange flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up whenever you’re craving something sweet.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or as a dessert at your next gathering—it fits any occasion.
• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can quickly mix up this cake and have it baking in no time.
• Beautiful Presentation: Dusting it with icing sugar adds a lovely finishing touch that makes each slice look irresistible.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Orange Loaf Cake, you’ll need some essential tools to make your baking experience smooth.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: A good quality loaf pan ensures even baking and helps achieve that perfect shape for your cake.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to separate dry and wet ingredients easily, preventing any mess during preparation.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for combining ingredients thoroughly, ensuring a light texture in your cake.
• Rubber spatula: Use a rubber spatula for folding in ingredients gently without over-mixing the batter.

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:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Combine the yogurt, sugar, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
2. Whisk in the olive oil until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Add the dry ingredients from Step 2 into the wet mixture:
1. Stir gently until combined—be careful not to over-mix as this could affect the texture of your cake.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan:
1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-55 minutes or until the top is deep golden brown.
2. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let cool in the pan for about 20 minutes:
1. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before dusting with icing sugar if desired or drizzling with optional glaze (see recipe notes).

How to Serve Orange Loaf Cake

Orange loaf cake is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, serving it right can enhance its delightful orange flavor. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve slices of orange loaf cake alongside a mix of fresh berries or sliced citrus fruits for a refreshing contrast.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of light whipped cream for extra creaminess and a touch of sweetness.

As Toast

• Lightly toast slices of orange loaf cake and spread with butter or cream cheese for a warm, comforting snack.

With Ice Cream

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for an indulgent dessert that complements the bright citrus flavors.

Drizzled with Glaze

• Add a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice on top of the loaf for an attractive finish and extra sweetness.

How to Perfect Orange Loaf Cake

To ensure your orange loaf cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for freshly squeezed orange juice and zest to maximize flavor. This will elevate your cake’s taste significantly.

• Measure Accurately: Use proper measuring techniques for flour and sugar. Too much can lead to a dense texture.

• Don’t Over-Mix: Mix the batter just until combined. Over-mixing can result in a tough loaf instead of a light one.

• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated and accurate, as variations can affect baking times and outcomes.

• Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain moisture and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Loaf Cake

Pairing side dishes with your orange loaf cake can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a healthy side that balances the sweetness of the cake.

2. Citrus Salad: A mix of grapefruit, orange segments, and mint adds brightness and freshness to complement the flavors in the loaf.

3. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy chia seed pudding made with almond milk offers an excellent contrast in texture while being nutritious.

4. Herbed Cream Cheese Spread: A savory herb-infused cream cheese spread works well on toasted slices, providing an interesting flavor balance.

5. Tea or Herbal Infusion: Serve with a cup of chamomile tea or any herbal infusion that brings warmth and comfort alongside your cake.

6. Nutty Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars made with nuts, oats, and honey provide crunchiness that pairs nicely with moist cake slices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an orange loaf cake can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using stale ingredients – Always check that your baking powder and flour are fresh. Old ingredients can lead to a dense cake that doesn’t rise well.
• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can make the cake tough. Stir until just combined for a light and airy texture.
• Skipping the zest – The orange zest adds crucial flavor. Don’t skip it; it makes your cake aromatic and delicious.
• Not preheating the oven – Preheating is essential for even baking. Make sure your oven reaches 350°F before you put in the loaf pan.
• Using the wrong pan size – A different size pan can affect baking time and texture. Stick to an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• You can place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing Orange Loaf Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Orange Loaf Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, then warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place slices in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making an Orange Loaf Cake.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in Orange Loaf Cake?

You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. Just be aware it may alter the texture slightly.

How do I add more flavor to my Orange Loaf Cake?

Consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or include other citrus zest such as lemon or lime for extra depth of flavor.

What can I use instead of yogurt in this Orange Loaf Cake recipe?

You can replace yogurt with sour cream or buttermilk if needed, although yogurt provides a nice tanginess.

Is it possible to make this Orange Loaf Cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum to achieve a similar texture.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Loaf Cake is not only wonderfully moist but also versatile enough to suit various occasions, from breakfast to dessert. You can customize it by adding nuts or changing the citrus flavors. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!