Orange Blossom Cake

Indulge in the delicate and aromatic flavors of this Orange Blossom Cake, a perfect blend of citrus and floral notes. This moist and tender cake is infused with orange zest and orange blossom water, offering a unique and refreshing taste that’s sure to delight your palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake combines the sweet, tangy essence of fresh oranges with the subtle, fragrant hint of orange blossom water, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Its light and fluffy texture makes it an ideal dessert for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Additionally, the straightforward preparation ensures a delightful baking experience for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

Ingredients

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

• Unsalted butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Large eggs, room temperature
• Orange zest
• Orange juice
• Orange blossom water
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Whole milk

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the orange zest, orange juice, and orange blossom water until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar or glaze as desired before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 8-10 servings. The total preparation and baking time is about 50-60 minutes, including 15 minutes of prep time and 35-45 minutes of baking time.

Variations

• Orange Blossom Loaf Cake: For a different presentation, bake the batter in a loaf pan. Adjust the baking time as needed, typically around 50-60 minutes, and test for doneness with a toothpick.
• Orange Blossom Bundt Cake: Use a bundt pan for an elegant shape. Ensure the pan is well-greased and floured to prevent sticking. Baking time may vary; start checking for doneness around 45 minutes.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking to accommodate dietary preferences.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: To enjoy the cake warm, heat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

What is orange blossom water?

Orange blossom water is a fragrant distillation of fresh bitter-orange blossoms. It imparts a subtle floral and citrus flavor to dishes and is commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines.

Where can I buy orange blossom water?

Orange blossom water is available at specialty food stores, Middle Eastern markets, and online retailers. Ensure you purchase food-grade quality suitable for culinary use.

Can I substitute orange extract for orange blossom water?

While both provide orange flavor, orange extract lacks the floral notes of orange blossom water. If substituting, use a smaller amount of orange extract, as it is more concentrated.

How do I prevent my cake from becoming too dense?

To achieve a light texture, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, avoid overmixing the batter, and accurately measure your ingredients.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to this cake?

Yes, adding chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds, or dried fruits such as cranberries, can enhance the texture and flavor. Fold them into the batter before baking.

Is this cake suitable for layering?

This cake has a tender crumb, making it suitable for layering. Ensure the layers are completely cooled before assembling with frosting or filling.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

To make the cake dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk such as almond or soy milk.

How can I enhance the orange flavor?

For a more pronounced orange flavor, increase the amount of orange zest or add a tablespoon of orange liqueur to the batter.

What frosting pairs well with orange blossom cake?

A light cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and orange juice complements the cake’s flavors beautifully.

Can I use this recipe for cupcakes?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for cupcakes. Fill cupcake liners two-thirds full and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Conclusion

This Orange Blossom Cake offers a delightful fusion of citrus and floral flavors, making it a standout dessert for any occasion. Its moist, tender crumb and aromatic profile are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings. Enjoy this elegant cake as a centerpiece at your next gathering or as a special treat to brighten your day.

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