Zesty Orange Drizzle Cake
The Zesty Orange Drizzle Cake is a classic British treat that brings the warmth of home baking to your kitchen. I remember the first time I baked this cake; the sweet smell of oranges wafting through the house made me feel nostalgic, reminding me of sunny afternoons with my family. Each bite is a delightful balance of moist cake and zesty orange flavor, topped with a crunchy, sweet drizzle. It’s perfect for those moments when you need a little pick-me-up or want to impress your friends at tea time. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, this cake has a way of brightening even the grayest of days. Let me take you on a journey through this delicious recipe that’s not only simple to make but also incredibly rewarding!
Recipe Snapshot
2 hr 55 mins
10 mins
165 mins
Hard
290 kcal
3 g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP
14 g
Oven, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl, Grater, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon
What Sets This Zesty Orange Drizzle Cake Apart
Moist and Flavorful
The Zesty Orange Drizzle Cake is celebrated for its moist texture, achieved through the careful creaming of butter and sugar. Each ingredient plays a critical role; the eggs provide richness, while the addition of orange zest gives it that signature citrus kick.
Bright Citrus Flavor
What sets this cake apart is the inclusion of fresh orange juice combined with zest. The natural acidity balances the sweetness, creating a flavor profile that dances on the palate. It’s an uplifting treat that feels vibrant and refreshing.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a tea party, celebrating a birthday, or simply treating yourself after a long week, this cake fits the bill. It’s suitable for casual gatherings or special occasions, making it a versatile dessert.
Easy to Make
With straightforward steps, from creaming to baking, even novice bakers can feel confident whipping up this delightful cake. The process is straightforward, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment rather than stressing over complex techniques.
Great for Sharing
This cake is perfect for sharing; the recipe yields a generous amount, making it an excellent choice for gatherings. Slicing and serving it with a cup of tea creates a lovely atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie.
Storing and Freezing
Another great aspect is its storage versatility. The Zesty Orange Drizzle Cake remains delicious for days and can even be frozen for longer enjoyment. Just make sure to wrap it properly to maintain its texture.
Zesty Orange Drizzle Cake Ingredients
The magic of the Zesty Orange Drizzle Cake lies in the harmonious blend of ingredients. The combination of butter, sugar, and self-raising flour creates a cake that rises beautifully and has a soft crumb. The fresh orange zest and juice not only infuse flavor but also keep the cake moist and aromatic.
- 225 grams butter (room temperature, softened): This is the base that provides richness and moisture.
- 225 grams caster sugar: It sweetens the cake and contributes to the fluffy texture when creamed with butter.
- 225 grams self-raising flour: This is the key to achieving a light and airy cake.
- 4 large eggs (room temperature): Eggs bind the ingredients and add moisture.
- Finely grated zest of 1 orange: This adds a burst of citrus flavor that elevates the cake.
- 1 orange (juiced): Fresh juice enhances the cake’s flavor and adds moisture.
- 85 grams caster sugar: Used for the drizzle, it creates a crunchy topping.
Preparation Steps for Zesty Orange Drizzle Cake
Making the Zesty Orange Drizzle Cake is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma. You’ll start by preparing your oven and tin, and soon, you’ll be creating a batter that’s just bursting with citrus flavor. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll have a cake that not only looks beautiful but tastes divine!
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). It’s vital to get the temperature right for an even bake. Grease and line an 8x21cm loaf tin with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and caster sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, making your cake light. Use a stand mixer or a hand beater for best results.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to prevent the mixture from curdling and ensures that the eggs are fully incorporated.
- Next, mix in the finely grated orange zest, which adds a lovely freshness to the batter. The vibrant scent will fill your kitchen!
- Sift the self-raising flour over the wet ingredients. Gently fold it into the mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep that fluffy texture.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top with a spatula. This will give you a nice, even surface for baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until golden brown. A skewer inserted into the center should come out clean; this is a sign your cake is perfectly baked.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the drizzle. In a small bowl, mix the orange juice and caster sugar together, stirring just enough to combine without dissolving the sugar.
- Once the cake is out of the oven, while it’s still warm, pierce the surface all over with a skewer or knife. This helps the drizzle soak in, making the cake even more moist.
- Slowly pour the drizzle mixture over the warm cake, allowing the juice to soak in. The undissolved sugar will create a delightful crunchy crust on top.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the tin before carefully removing it. Slice and serve your Zesty Orange Drizzle Cake with a cup of tea for the ultimate afternoon treat!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature; this helps to create a smoother batter.
- Don’t Overmix: When incorporating the flour, mix until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary; always test with a skewer. If it comes out clean, the cake is done!
- Cooling is Key: Let the cake cool completely before slicing. This helps to maintain its structure and flavor.
Change It Up
If you’re looking to get creative with the Zesty Orange Drizzle Cake, there are plenty of ways to customize this recipe. Add different flavors or pair it with various toppings for a unique twist!
- Add Lemon Zest: For a different citrus flavor, you can substitute half of the orange zest with lemon zest.
- Incorporate Nuts: Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds can give the cake a delightful crunch.
- Serve with Cream: A dollop of whipped cream or clotted cream pairs beautifully with the cake.
- Fruit Topping: Top the cake with fresh berries or slices of orange for an extra touch of freshness and color.
- Storage: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container for up to three days to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: Slice and wrap the cake tightly before freezing to extend its shelf life up to three months.
- Variations: Try using different fruit juices for the drizzle, like grapefruit or lime, for an exciting flavor change.
Serving This Zesty Orange Drizzle Cake
Serving the Zesty Orange Drizzle Cake is as delightful as making it. This cake is versatile and can fit into various occasions seamlessly. Here are some suggestions on how to serve it!
- Afternoon Tea: The cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of black tea, making it a perfect treat for afternoon gatherings.
- Breakfast Delight: Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or tea for a refreshing twist to your breakfast routine.
- Picnic Treat: This cake is an excellent addition to any picnic. It holds up well and is easy to slice for sharing.
- Celebration Cake: Dress it up for special occasions with a dusting of powdered sugar on top or serve it with fresh fruit.
- Freezing Tips: If you have leftovers, slice the cake and wrap it tightly in cling film to freeze. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Seasonal Pairing: As it’s an all-year treat, pair it with seasonal fruits like strawberries in summer or oranges in winter for garnish.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Zesty Orange Drizzle Cake is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that truly brings joy to any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, this cake will surely lift your spirits. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s simple yet incredibly satisfying. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, and I’m certain it will become a staple in your baking repertoire!
Zesty Orange Drizzle Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Grease and line an 8x21cm loaf tin.
- Cream the butter and caster sugar together until pale and fluffy using a stand mixer or hand beater.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix in the grated orange zest.
- Sift the self-raising flour over the wet ingredients and gently fold it in by hand until just combined.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf tin, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until golden brown and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
- Mix the orange juice and caster sugar in a small bowl, stirring just enough to combine without dissolving the sugar.
- While the cake is still warm, pierce the surface all over with a skewer or knife.
- Slowly pour the drizzle mixture over the cake, letting the juice soak in. The undissolved sugar will create a light, crunchy crust on top.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the tin before removing it. Slice and serve with a cup of tea for the ultimate afternoon treat.
Notes
- At room temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the fridge: Keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days if your kitchen is particularly warm. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- In the freezer: Wrap the cake (whole or in slices) tightly in clingfilm and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
