Homemade Christmas Orange Cake recipe

If you’re looking for a cake that perfectly captures the festive spirit and bursts with bright, citrusy flavor, you absolutely must try this Homemade Christmas Orange Cake recipe. It’s a delightful blend of tender crumb, zesty orange notes, and just the right touch of sweetness that makes every bite feel like a cozy holiday hug. Whether you’re serving it at your family gathering or gifting it to friends, this cake brings warmth and cheer to any celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this cake is refreshingly straightforward, yet every component plays an important role. From the velvety butter to the fresh orange juice and zest, these ingredients work together to create a moist, flavorful cake that’s as inviting to the eye as it is to your taste buds.

• Flour: 2 cups of all-purpose flour provide the structure and soft crumb for the cake.
• Sugar: 1 cup of granulated sugar adds the perfect amount of sweetness and helps with the tender texture.
• Unsalted butter: ¾ cup softened butter gives the cake richness and helps keep it moist.
• Large eggs: 3 eggs bind everything together while adding moisture and a lovely golden color.
• Fresh orange juice: ½ cup to infuse fresh citrus flavor and keep the cake wonderfully moist.
• Orange zest: 1 tablespoon for an extra punch of bright orange aroma and flavor.
• Milk: ¼ cup adds a subtle creaminess that rounds out the texture.
• Baking powder: 2 teaspoons to help the cake rise beautifully and remain light.
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon balances the citrus with a warm, comforting note.
• Salt: just a pinch to enhance all the flavors and keep the sweetness in check.

How to Make Homemade Christmas Orange Cake recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Grease your 8-inch round pan thoroughly and line it with parchment paper. This step is key to making sure your cake releases effortlessly once baked, keeping that stunning shape intact for serving.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Start by beating the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture looks pale, light, and fluffy. This aeration helps create a tender crumb and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This prevents curdling and ensures the batter becomes smooth and silky, setting the stage for a luscious cake.

Step 4: Add Orange Zest and Vanilla

Stir in fresh orange zest and vanilla extract now. These flavor boosters will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma as you bake.

Step 5: Sift Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting avoids lumps and evenly distributes the leavening, contributing to a light and fluffy bake.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Fold half of the dry ingredients gently into the wet batter, then pour in the fresh orange juice and milk. Mix carefully but thoroughly before folding in the remaining dry ingredients until the batter is smooth and thick but not overworked.

Step 7: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in a preheated oven at 170°C and bake for 35 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cake turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Unmold

Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes to set before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling completely ensures your Homemade Christmas Orange Cake recipe slices beautifully without crumbling.

How to Serve Homemade Christmas Orange Cake recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar works wonders to highlight this cake’s vibrant color, or scatter some candied orange slices on top for a sophisticated, festive touch. Fresh mint leaves also add a refreshing contrast and a pop of green that is perfect for holiday tablescapes.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the citrus notes. For something cozy, serve alongside a spiced tea or rich coffee for a comforting holiday afternoon snack or dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not dress it up with a drizzle of orange glaze or a light cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence? You can even slice it into small pieces and serve as festive cake bites at a gathering—warming up the room with both flavor and cheer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cake airtight at room temperature for up to three days to keep it moist and fresh. If you live in a warmer climate, keeping it in the fridge wrapped tightly will help prevent drying out.

Freezing

This Homemade Christmas Orange Cake recipe freezes well. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to enjoy its tender texture once again.

Reheating

For a freshly baked feel, warm slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or pop them into a low oven for a few minutes. This brings back the soft crumb and releases those amazing orange aromas.

FAQs

Can I use orange extract instead of fresh orange juice?

You can substitute with orange extract, but fresh orange juice provides natural acidity and moisture that really elevate the cake’s flavor and texture, making it more vibrant and fresh.

Is this cake suitable for making cupcakes?

Absolutely! The batter works beautifully for cupcakes too. Adjust baking time to about 20-25 minutes and keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake.

Can I swap the butter for oil?

While butter gives this cake its delightful richness and flavor, you can substitute with the same amount of mild vegetable oil for a slightly different texture—a bit denser but still delicious.

How can I make this cake more festive?

Try adding warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg alongside the orange zest, or top with a sprinkle of edible gold dust or festive sprinkles. All add that extra holiday magic.

Does this recipe work with gluten-free flour?

Yes! Use a one-to-one gluten-free baking flour blend for best results. The cake will keep its lovely crumb and but do watch baking time as it may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about baking a Homemade Christmas Orange Cake recipe that fills your home with joyful scents and warms your heart with every bite. It’s easier than you think and absolutely worth every moment spent. Give it a try this season—you might just find a new family favorite that becomes part of your holiday tradition.

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