Juicy Orange Breakfast Cake

A moist and tender breakfast cake bursting with fresh orange flavor, topped with a sweet orange glaze. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Citrus Burst: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest add a refreshing flavor.
• Soft and Tender: The cake is perfectly moist, thanks to butter and fresh orange juice.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it ideal for any occasion.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as breakfast, brunch, or a delightful dessert.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Orange Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons orange juice
• 1/2 teaspoon orange zest (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients:
   • Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. Mix in the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Bake the Cake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Make the Orange Glaze:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and orange juice until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more sugar or juice, if needed.
7. Glaze the Cake:
   • Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top. Garnish with extra orange zest, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Citrus Mix: Use a combination of orange and lemon juice for a tangy twist.
• Toppings: Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or shredded coconut for extra texture.
• Dairy-Free Version: Replace butter with coconut oil or a plant-based spread.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheating: Enjoy at room temperature or warm a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought orange juice?

Yes, but freshly squeezed orange juice provides the best flavor.

2. How do I prevent the cake from being dry?

Ensure you measure the flour accurately and avoid overbaking the cake.

3. Can I use other citrus fruits for this recipe?

Absolutely! Lemon, lime, or a combination of citrus juices work well.

4. What’s the best way to zest an orange?

Use a microplane or fine grater to remove just the orange-colored peel, avoiding the bitter white pith.

5. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the cake a day in advance, store it covered, and glaze it before serving.

6. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time as needed.

7. Can I make this without the glaze?

Yes, the cake is delicious on its own, but the glaze enhances the flavor.

8. How do I make the glaze thicker?

Add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.

9. Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate chips or dried cranberries make great additions.

10. Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but reduce the salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

Conclusion

This Juicy Orange Breakfast Cake is a citrusy delight that’s perfect for brightening up your mornings or treating your family to a light dessert. With its fresh orange flavor and tender texture, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for any occasion!

Print