orange loaf cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Preparation: No need for an electric mixer; just two bowls and a whisk are all you require to bring this cake together.
  • Healthier Ingredients: Incorporating olive oil and Greek yogurt not only adds moisture but also makes this cake a slightly healthier indulgence.
  • Versatile Delight: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this orange loaf cake fits seamlessly into any part of your day.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups (188 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon orange zest (from about 1 large orange)
  • ½ cup (125 grams) plain full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup (120 ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120 ml) extra virgin olive oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sugar and orange zest. Use your fingers to rub the zest into the sugar until it’s fragrant and slightly orange in color. Add the yogurt, eggs, orange juice, and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix to avoid a dense cake.
  5. Add Olive Oil: Slowly drizzle in the olive oil, folding it into the batter until fully incorporated and smooth.
  6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Optional Glaze: For added sweetness, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed orange juice until you reach a drizzling consistency. Pour over the cooled cake and let it set before slicing.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: This recipe yields approximately 10 slices.
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Baking Time: 50-55 minutes
  • Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes

Variations

  • Citrus Twist: Substitute lemon or lime zest and juice for a different citrus flavor.
  • Nutty Addition: Fold in ½ cup of chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for added texture.
  • Chocolate Chip: Incorporate ½ cup of mini chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet surprise.

Storage/Reheating

  • Room Temperature: Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigeration: For extended freshness, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving to restore its soft texture.
  • Freezing: Wrap the cooled, unglazed cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and glaze before serving, if desired.

FAQs

What type of yogurt should I use?

Plain full-fat Greek yogurt is recommended for its thickness and creaminess, which contribute to the cake’s moist texture.

Can I use a different oil?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil or melted coconut oil if preferred.

How do I prevent the cake from becoming too dense?

Avoid over-mixing the batter; stir until the ingredients are just combined to maintain a light texture.

Is it necessary to use fresh orange juice?

Freshly squeezed orange juice provides the best flavor, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

How can I tell if the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is done.

What’s the best way to zest an orange?

Use a microplane or fine grater to remove only the colorful outer layer of the orange peel, avoiding the bitter white pith.

Can I add a glaze to the cake?

Yes, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice can be drizzled over the cooled cake for extra sweetness.

How should I store leftovers?

Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room


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orange loaf cake


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  • Author: Isabella
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 10 slices
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in a moist and flavorful orange loaf cake made with olive oil and Greek yogurt. This easy-to-make citrus treat bursts with fresh orange zest and juice, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack.

 


Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups (188g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tbsp orange zest (from 1 large orange)
  • ½ cup (125g) plain full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 3 large eggs
  • ½ cup (120ml) freshly squeezed orange juice
  • ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120ml) extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • In a large bowl, rub sugar and orange zest together until fragrant. Add yogurt, eggs, orange juice, and vanilla; whisk until smooth.
  • Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
  • Slowly drizzle in olive oil, folding until smooth.
  • Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  • Cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Optional: Drizzle with a glaze made of powdered sugar and orange juice.

Notes

  • For variations, swap orange zest with lemon or lime, or fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
  • Avoid over-mixing for a lighter texture.
  • Best enjoyed fresh or stored as per storage tips.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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