Description
Indulgent orange pound cake delivers a sunshine-kissed slice of pure delight, dancing with citrusy notes and rich buttery goodness. Delicate crumb and tangy glaze promise a memorable dessert that will transport you straight to citrus paradise.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups (300 grams) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour
Citrus Components:
- Zest of 2 large oranges
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) freshly squeezed orange juice
Finishing Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by generously greasing its surface to prevent sticking, ensuring smooth cake removal.
- Using an electric mixer, blend butter and sugar at medium-high speed until the mixture transforms into a pale, airy consistency with soft peaks forming, approximately 4 minutes.
- Incorporate eggs individually, thoroughly mixing each one into the butter-sugar base to create a smooth, uniform texture.
- Gently fold orange zest, fresh orange juice, and vanilla extract into the mixture, distributing flavors evenly throughout the batter.
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt to eliminate potential lumps and ensure even ingredient distribution.
- Gradually introduce dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring with a spatula until just combined, avoiding overmixing to maintain the cake’s delicate structure.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 55-65 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through to promote uniform browning.
- Test cake doneness by inserting a thin skewer into the center; it should emerge clean with minimal crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let the cake rest in the pan for 15 minutes, allowing it to set and cool slightly.
- Carefully invert the cake onto a wire cooling rack, allowing it to reach room temperature before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Zesting Citrus Pro: Roll the orange on the counter before zesting to release more oils and enhance the vibrant citrus flavor, ensuring maximum aromatic intensity.
- Moisture Magic: Don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a tough, dense cake; mix just until ingredients are combined to maintain a tender crumb.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Swap regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for those with wheat sensitivities, maintaining the cake’s delightful texture.
- Dairy-Free Swap: Replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter alternative, and use plant-based milk to create a delicious version suitable for dairy-free diets.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg