Name: Orange Pound Cake with Vanilla Icing
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon baking soda; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 0.5 cup unsalted butter (softened); 3 tablespoon olive or avocado oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 0.5 cup sour cream; 3 tablespoon orange juice; 2 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1.33 cup confectioners' sugar; 1 tablespoon orange juice; splash milk (as needed)

Introduction to Orange Pound Cake with Vanilla Icing

When you're in the mood for a deliciously citrusy treat, look no further than orange pound cake with vanilla icing. This delectable dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it's an afternoon coffee break, a cozy gathering, or even just to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why Orange Pound Cake is a Perfect Homemade Treat

One of the best things about this orange pound cake is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a moist and flavorful cake that sings with vibrant orange notes. The combination of buttery cake with freshly squeezed orange juice and zest creates a delightful experience that tantalizes your taste buds.

Moreover, this cake is incredibly versatile. It can stand alone as a sweet addition to your breakfast table or be a showstopper at your next dessert gathering. As an added bonus, the easy-to-make vanilla icing provides a sweet finish that complements the cake's citrus flavor beautifully.

You might wonder why baking at home is worth it. The answer lies in knowing exactly what goes into your treats. Using fresh ingredients allows you to tailor flavors to your liking. Plus, nothing beats the warm, inviting aroma of a freshly baked cake wafting through your home. For more tips on homemade desserts, check out this article on baking essentials.

In just 1 hour and 15 minutes, this delightful cake will be ready to share with family and friends—if you can manage to save some for them!

Ingredients for Orange Pound Cake with Vanilla Icing

Creating a delightful orange pound cake with vanilla icing is all about using quality ingredients. Each component brings its unique flavor and texture, making your cake an irresistible treat. Below, you’ll find everything you need to whip up this delicious dessert.

Essential Ingredients for the Pound Cake

To achieve that perfect, moist texture and a burst of citrus flavor in your pound cake, gather the following essentials:

1 ½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon baking soda
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3 tablespoons olive or avocado oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
½ cup sour cream
3 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice

Make sure to check for quality ingredients! For more tips on sourcing fresh produce, refer to this guide.

Ingredients for the Vanilla Icing

To smoothly drizzle the icing over your cake, gather these simple ingredients:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 ⅓ cup confectioners' sugar
1 tablespoon orange juice
Splash of milk (as needed for consistency)

The icing is where your creativity can really shine! Consider playing with different citrus juices to discover new flavor combinations. Enjoy baking!

Step-by-step Preparation of Orange Pound Cake

Baking a delightful orange pound cake with vanilla icing is a fulfilling way to bring a taste of sunshine into your home. This recipe is straightforward and can be enjoyed by both seasoned bakers and beginners alike. Ready to create a moist and zesty treat? Let’s dive into the preparation steps!

Gather and prepare all ingredients

The first step in our baking adventure is to gather all the ingredients. You'll need:

1 ½ cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon baking soda
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon orange zest
½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
3 tablespoons olive or avocado oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
½ cup sour cream
3 tablespoons orange juice

For the vanilla icing, gather:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 ⅓ cup confectioners' sugar
1 tablespoon orange juice
A splash of milk as needed

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9x5-inch loaf pan; this makes for easy removal later on.

Mix the dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda. This is a crucial step, as it ensures even distribution of the leavening agents, contributing to a perfectly risen cake.

Cream the sugar, zest, and butter

Next, moving to a larger mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and orange zest. Rub the zest into the sugar between your fingers—this helps release those wonderful essential oils, enhancing the flavor. Add the softened butter and cream together using a hand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Incorporate wet ingredients into the mixture

To that delightful mix, add in your olive oil, vanilla extract, and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each egg. Following that, introduce the sour cream and orange juice, blending until the mixture is smooth and inviting.

Combine the batter thoroughly

It’s time to add those dry ingredients to your wet mixture. Start by incorporating half, mixing on low speed until just combined. Then, add the remaining dry mix and blend until fully integrated. For the final touch, use a rubber spatula to ensure everything is combined without over-mixing.

Bake the cake to perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it; a wooden skewer inserted in the center should come out clean when it’s magic is complete. Once baked, allow it to cool on a wire rack.

Prepare the vanilla icing

While your cake is cooling, let’s whip up the vanilla icing. Melt the butter, then mix in the confectioners' sugar and orange juice until you achieve a smooth consistency. Add a splash of milk if needed to reach your desired thickness.

Ice the cooled cake

Now that your cake is cool and your icing is ready, it’s time for the fun part! Spoon the icing over the top of your orange pound cake with vanilla icing, allowing it to drizzle down the sides. Serve this delicious treat to your friends or savor it all yourself!

This orange pound cake truly captures the essence of bright, citrus flavors, making it a must-bake for any occasion. For more baking inspiration, don't hesitate to check out some essential baking tips from reputable sources like the King Arthur Baking Company or Serious Eats. Happy baking!

Variations of Orange Pound Cake

Adding nuts or chocolate chips

For a delightful twist on your orange pound cake with vanilla icing, consider stirring in some toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts, which add a lovely crunch. You can also fold in chocolate chips for a surprising flavor combination that pairs beautifully with the citrusy notes. These additions not only enhance the texture but also bring a new dimension to your cake that everyone will love.

Citrus variations with lemon or grapefruit

Feeling adventurous? Swap out some of the orange juice for fresh lemon or grapefruit juice. This creates a refreshing citrus blend that brightens the flavor profile of your cake. Lemon zest alongside the orange zest can add a zesty kick, making your orange pound cake a hit for brunch or dessert. Check out King Arthur Baking for more inspiring citrus recipes!

Experiment with these variations to make your orange pound cake a cherished favorite!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Orange Pound Cake

Ensuring the Right Consistency

For a perfect orange pound cake with vanilla icing, the batter consistency is crucial. Aim for a thick but smooth mixture; if it's too runny, add a little more flour, and if it's too thick, a splash of orange juice will help. Always fold in dry ingredients gently to avoid overmixing and to keep that tender texture.

Importance of Room Temperature Ingredients

Using room temperature ingredients can make a world of difference in your cake's texture. It allows the butter to cream better, incorporating air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake. Take your eggs and sour cream out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before baking. This simple step enhances flavor integration and overall cake quality.

For more baking tips, consider checking resources like King Arthur Baking or America's Test Kitchen.

Serving Suggestions for Orange Pound Cake

Pairing with Fresh Fruits

Elevate your orange pound cake with vanilla icing by serving it alongside a medley of fresh fruits. Consider juicy strawberries, tart raspberries, or sweet peaches to balance the cake's rich flavors. The vibrant colors and textures not only enhance the presentation but also add a refreshing contrast. If you're feeling adventurous, try a fruit compote for an extra layer of flavor. Fresh fruits like citrus slices can tie back to the orange flavor, giving your dessert a cohesive taste profile.

Serving with a Hot Cup of Tea or Coffee

Nothing complements a slice of orange pound cake quite like a warm cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee. The cake’s moist texture and buttery sweetness blend perfectly with the rich notes of coffee or the delicate flavors of tea. Try pairing it with a classic Earl Grey or a smooth latte for a delightful afternoon treat. This combination makes for a cozy moment, whether you're enjoying a quiet afternoon or entertaining friends. Think about it—what could be better than sharing a slice over a great conversation?

For tips on selecting the perfect tea, check out this resource from The Tea Association.

Time Breakdown for Orange Pound Cake

Preparation Time

With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll get everything ready to make your delicious orange pound cake with vanilla icing. It’s a great opportunity to set the mood—put on some upbeat music and enjoy the process!

Baking Time

The cake itself requires 45 minutes of baking, which is the perfect time to take care of other tasks or simply relax. Remember, great things take time, and this fragrant cake is well worth the wait!

Total Time

In just 1 hour and 15 minutes, you will have transformed simple ingredients into a delightful dessert. Once it's cooled and finished with icing, you’ll be ready to impress family and friends!

For more tips on dessert timing, you can explore additional resources from sources like The Baking Wizard or America's Test Kitchen. Enjoy your baking journey!

Nutritional Facts for Orange Pound Cake

When you bake this delightful orange pound cake with vanilla icing, you might be curious about its nutritional content. Here’s a comprehensive look:

Calories per serving

Each serving of this delicious cake contains approximately 320 calories. A perfect treat that doesn’t overpower your daily caloric intake but satisfies your sweet tooth.

Sugar content

You’ll find about 24 grams of sugar in each slice. While that adds to the cake’s sweetness, it’s essential to enjoy in moderation!

Fats and protein information

This cake offers around 12 grams of fat and 4 grams of protein per serving. The combination of butter and oil keeps it moist, while the eggs contribute to the protein content, adding a nutritional boost.

For more detailed nutritional data, consider checking resources like MyFitnessPal or NutritionData.

FAQs about Orange Pound Cake with Vanilla Icing

What if I don’t have sour cream?

Don’t worry! If you find yourself without sour cream for your orange pound cake with vanilla icing, you can easily substitute it with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk. Both options will maintain the cake’s moist texture and tangy flavor, making them excellent alternatives.

Can I freeze the orange pound cake?

Absolutely! Freezing your orange pound cake is a great way to enjoy it later. Just ensure it cools completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat if desired.

How do I know when the cake is done?

To check if your orange pound cake is ready, insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is done! It should also have a golden crust and a delightful aroma filling your kitchen. For more tips on perfecting your baking skills, check out this informative guide on baking basics.

Conclusion on Orange Pound Cake with Vanilla Icing

In summary, this delightful orange pound cake with vanilla icing is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a splash of sunshine on your plate. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy afternoon, it’s sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and share it with loved ones for even more joy!