Unbelievably moist and bursting with fresh orange flavor, this Orange Loaf Cake is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, its unique combination of olive oil and yogurt makes it a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on taste. This cake is not only easy to make but also showcases the bright and zesty notes of oranges, making it an instant favorite among friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this cake baking in no time.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, dusted with icing sugar, or drizzled with glaze for an extra touch.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with olive oil and yogurt, this cake offers a lighter alternative without sacrificing moisture or flavor.
- Bursting with Flavor: The fresh orange juice and zest provide a vibrant citrus flavor that elevates this loaf cake.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering or an afternoon tea, this Orange Loaf Cake fits right in.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the deliciousness of the Orange Loaf Cake, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf pan: A quality loaf pan ensures even baking and helps maintain the shape of your cake.
- Mixing bowls: Different sizes allow for mixing dry and wet ingredients separately without mess.
- Whisk: Perfect for combining ingredients smoothly and incorporating air for a fluffier texture.
- Rubber spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure no ingredient goes unused.
Ingredients
Unbelievably moist and bursting with fresh orange flavor, this simple Orange Loaf Cake is made with olive oil and yogurt for a healthier 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 until well combined.
Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl:
1. Combine yogurt, sugar, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
2. Whisk in the olive oil until mixture is smooth.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
- Add the dry ingredients from Step 2 to the wet mixture.
- Stir gently to combine; be careful not to over-mix.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan:
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 50–55 minutes.
2. The top should be deep golden brown; check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
Step 6: Cool Down
Let cool in the pan for about 20 minutes:
1. Carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Dust with icing sugar if desired or drizzle with optional glaze.
Enjoy your deliciously moist Orange Loaf Cake!
How to Serve Orange Loaf Cake
Serving your delicious orange loaf cake can truly enhance the experience. Here are some creative ideas to enjoy this delightful treat.
With Fresh Berries
- Serve slices of the orange loaf cake alongside a mix of fresh berries for a refreshing contrast. The tartness of the berries complements the sweet citrus flavors perfectly.
Drizzled with Honey
- A light drizzle of honey over each slice adds an extra touch of sweetness and enhances the orange flavor. This simple addition makes each bite even more indulgent.
Paired with Whipped Cream
- Top the cake with homemade whipped cream for a decadent dessert. The creamy texture balances out the moist cake, making it an irresistible combination.
As Part of a Breakfast Spread
- Slice the orange loaf cake and include it in a breakfast spread with yogurt and granola. It provides a lovely citrusy option that pairs well with other breakfast favorites.
With Tea or Coffee
- Enjoy a slice with your afternoon tea or coffee. The bright flavors of the orange loaf cake make it a perfect companion for your warm beverage.
Topped with Icing Sugar
- Dusting the top with icing sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness, making it visually appealing for any occasion.
How to Perfect Orange Loaf Cake
Creating the ideal orange loaf cake is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips for perfection.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh oranges for zest and juice; they provide vibrant flavor compared to bottled alternatives.
- Measure Carefully: Accurate measurements ensure that your cake rises properly and achieves that perfect moist texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold ingredients together to keep the batter light and airy, avoiding dense or tough results.
- Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cake around 50 minutes; ovens vary, and you want to avoid overbaking.
- Cool Completely: Allowing the loaf to cool completely before slicing helps maintain its structure and moisture levels.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an added depth of flavor if desired.
Best Side Dishes for Orange Loaf Cake
Pairing side dishes with your orange loaf cake can elevate your meal. Here are some great options.
Greek Yogurt Parfait
Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruits for a nutritious complement that balances sweetness.Fruit Salad
A colorful fruit salad adds freshness and variety, enhancing the citrus notes in your loaf cake.Chia Seed Pudding
This creamy pudding provides a healthy option that contrasts nicely with the dense texture of the cake.Smoothie Bowl
A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds serves as a nutritious side dish that pairs well with breakfast.Tea Infused Rice Pudding
The aromatic flavors of tea-infused rice pudding create an interesting textural contrast alongside your orange loaf cake.Coconut Macaroons
These chewy treats offer tropical flavors that enhance the citrus taste while adding sweetness to your plate.Cheese Platter
A selection of mild cheeses can balance out the sweetness of the cake, making it ideal for serving at gatherings.Herbed Salad
A light herbed salad dressed in vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to this sweet treat, making it perfect as part of brunch or dessert spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making an orange loaf cake can be simple, but there are a few common errors to steer clear of.
- Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking powder and flour. Old ingredients can lead to a dense loaf that doesn’t rise well.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can develop gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Stir until just combined for the best texture.
- Skipping the zest: Orange zest adds essential flavor and aroma. Don’t skip this step; it makes all the difference in achieving that vibrant citrus taste.
- Not measuring accurately: Baking requires precise measurements. Use measuring cups and spoons for consistency, particularly with flour and sugar.
- Ignoring cooling time: Allowing the cake to cool properly ensures it sets correctly. Removing it too early can result in a crumbly texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- You can wrap it tightly with plastic wrap before placing it in the container.
Freezing Orange Loaf Cake
- Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its flavor.
Reheating Orange Loaf Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes for best results.
- Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making an orange loaf cake.
How can I make my Orange Loaf Cake more moist?
Adding an extra tablespoon of yogurt or using applesauce can enhance moisture without changing the flavor.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version, but this may slightly alter the texture.
What should I do if my Orange Loaf Cake is too dense?
Ensure you don’t overmix your batter. Additionally, check your leavening agents’ freshness as they are crucial for creating lift.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Orange Loaf Cake?
Absolutely! Adding walnuts or dark chocolate chips can provide a delightful contrast to the citrus flavor.
Final Thoughts
This orange loaf cake is not only incredibly moist but also full of fresh orange flavor that brightens any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding nuts or even a drizzle of glaze on top. Give this recipe a try; it’s bound to become a favorite!
Orange Loaf Cake
Delight in the refreshing taste of our Orange Loaf Cake, an incredibly moist treat that bursts with zesty orange flavor. This easy-to-make cake combines the richness of olive oil and Greek yogurt, creating a delectable option perfect for any occasion—be it breakfast, dessert, or a casual snack. The bright notes from fresh orange juice and zest elevate this loaf to new heights, making it an instant favorite among family and friends. Enjoy it plain, dusted with icing sugar, or drizzled with a light glaze for an extra touch of sweetness. This recipe is not only simple but also offers a healthier twist without compromising on flavor.
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 10 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 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
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup olive oil (or vegetable/canola oil)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, mix yogurt, sugar, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth. Whisk in the olive oil.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow cooling in the pan for about 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: For added moisture, consider including an extra tablespoon of yogurt or substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or dark chocolate chips for additional texture and flavor.