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Old-Fashioned Orange Cake

This delightful Old-Fashioned Orange Cake is quick and easy to make, bringing a burst of citrus flavor and nostalgia to your table.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Baking, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened At room temperature for better mixing.
  • 1 cup milk At room temperature is preferred.
  • 3 large eggs At room temperature.
  • Zest of 2 oranges Avoid the bitter white pith.
  • ½ cup fresh orange juice Fresh juice is best for flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Lightly grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Mixing Ingredients
  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then mix in the orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture; mix until just combined.
Baking the Cake
  1. Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared pans.
  2. Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Frosting and Serving
  1. Once cool, frost with your favorite icing, such as cream cheese frosting. Optionally, add some orange zest on top for an extra zesty finish.

Notes

Ensure room temperature ingredients for better texture. For storage, keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. The cake can also be frozen individually wrapped for up to three months.