Orange Drizzle Cake: 10 Steps to Citrus Perfection
Orange drizzle cake is a delightful dessert that combines the tangy freshness of oranges with the sweet, moist texture of a classic sponge cake. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is sure to impress your family and friends. Follow these ten steps to achieve citrus perfection and create a cake that will become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Orange Drizzle Cake:Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. For the cake, you’ll need:
- 200g (7 oz) unsalted butter, softened
- 200g (7 oz) caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 200g (7 oz) self-raising flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Zest of 2 oranges
- 2 tbsp orange juice
For the drizzle, you’ll need
- Juice of 2 oranges
- 150g (5.3 oz) icing sugar
Having all your ingredients measured and ready will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Orange Drizzle Cake:Preheat Your Oven
Preheating the oven is a crucial step in baking. It ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises properly. Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (320°F) for a fan oven. While the oven is preheating, grease and line a 20cm (8-inch) round cake tin with baking parchment.
Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential as it incorporates air into the batter, which helps the cake to rise. You can use an electric mixer for this step to make the process quicker and easier.
Add the Eggs
Beat the eggs into the butter and sugar mixture one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. If the mixture starts to curdle, add a tablespoon of the flour to help bind it together. This method ensures a smooth and even batter.
Sift in the Dry Ingredients
Sift the self-raising flour and baking powder into the bowl. This step helps to aerate the flour and remove any lumps, resulting in a lighter cake. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or a large metal spoon. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
Add the Orange Zest and Juice
Fold in the zest of two oranges and two tablespoons of orange juice into the batter. The zest adds a concentrated orange flavor, while the juice adds moisture and enhances the citrus taste. Mix until everything is just combined.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top with a spatula. Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and springy to the touch.
Prepare the Orange Drizzle
While the cake is baking, prepare the orange drizzle. In a small bowl, mix the juice of two oranges with 150g (5.3 oz) of icing sugar until you have a smooth, runny glaze. This drizzle will soak into the cake, adding extra moisture and a burst of citrus flavor.
Drizzle the Cake
As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, prick it all over with a skewer or a fork. Pour the orange drizzle evenly over the hot cake, allowing it to soak in. The drizzle will seep into the holes, infusing the cake with orange goodness. Leave the cake in the tin to cool completely.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the cake has cooled, remove it from the tin and transfer it to a serving plate. You can decorate the cake with extra orange zest or thin slices of orange if you like. Slice and serve your orange drizzle cake with a cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy the moist, citrus-infused goodness of this delightful cake.
Conclusion
Making an orange drizzle cake is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. The combination of a light, fluffy sponge with a tangy orange glaze creates a cake that is both refreshing and indulgent. By following these ten steps, you can achieve citrus perfection and impress your friends and family with your baking skills. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a treat for yourself, this orange drizzle cake is sure to become a favorite.
FAQs
1. Can I use other citrus fruits for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute oranges with other citrus fruits like lemons or limes. The process remains the same, but the flavor will differ based on the fruit used.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! The orange drizzle cake can be made a day in advance. In fact, allowing it to sit overnight can enhance the flavor as the drizzle soaks into the cake.
3. How should I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week.
4. Can I freeze the orange drizzle cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in cling film and place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to three months. Thaw the cake at room temperature before serving.
5. What can I serve with orange drizzle cake?
Orange drizzle cake pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It’s also delicious served with a hot cup of tea or coffee.
Also read: SLOW COOKING TURKEY CROWN: 10 EXPERT-APPROVED HACKS FOR JUICY RESULTS
