Quick and Easy Orange Delight Cake
Indulge in the delightful sweetness and zesty aroma of the Orange Delight Cake, an effortlessly simple cake that bursts with fresh orange flavor. With minimal prep time and basic ingredients, this cake is sure to be a hit for any occasion! Here’s the full recipe with additional Q&A for your convenience.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Zest of 1 orange (optional, for extra citrus flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon baking powder.
- If you want an extra burst of citrus, you can also add the zest of 1 orange at this stage.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, combine 1/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (if using).
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense texture.
5. Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Optional Garnish:
- Once cooled, you can sprinkle powdered sugar on top or drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a little orange juice.
Optional Glaze Recipe:
- Mix 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon orange juice (adjust to your desired consistency).
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake for an added touch of sweetness and extra citrus flavor.
Q&A:
Q: Can I use orange extract instead of fresh orange juice and zest?
A: Yes! You can substitute the fresh orange juice and zest with 1 teaspoon of orange extract for a more concentrated orange flavor. However, fresh juice and zest provide a more natural and vibrant taste.
Q: Can I make this cake without vanilla extract?
A: Absolutely! The vanilla extract is optional. If you prefer a more straightforward orange flavor, feel free to leave it out.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the cake in advance! Once cooled, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw before serving.
Q: Can I add other ingredients, like nuts or chocolate chips?
A: Yes, feel free to experiment! Chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts) or even chocolate chips would pair wonderfully with the orange flavor.
Q: How can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend you use is suitable for baking to ensure proper texture.
Enjoy!
Whether for a cozy family dessert or a gathering with friends, this Quick and Easy Orange Delight Cake is sure to brighten your day. Enjoy the burst of citrusy sweetness in every bite!