Unbelievably moist and bursting with fresh orange flavor, this Orange Loaf Cake is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a delightful snack. Made with olive oil and yogurt, it’s a healthier choice without sacrificing taste. This cake is ideal for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a brunch or enjoying a quiet afternoon tea. The standout feature of this recipe is its simplicity—easy to whip up yet incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: Each slice is infused with bright orange zest and juice, providing a refreshing taste.
• Healthier Ingredients: Made with olive oil and Greek yogurt, this cake is lighter than traditional recipes.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon treat, or dessert after dinner.
• Simple Preparation: With minimal steps and easy-to-find ingredients, anyone can make this cake.
• Customizable: You can easily add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Orange Loaf Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: This specific size ensures even baking and perfect shape for the cake.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls helps in combining wet and dry ingredients effectively.
• Whisk: A whisk allows for better incorporation of ingredients, resulting in a fluffier texture.
• Rubber spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are well combined.

this recipe

Ingredients

Unbelievably moist and bursting with fresh orange flavor, this simple orange loaf cake is made with olive oil and yogurt for a healthier, easy to make treat.

For the Cake

• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt (see note)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup olive oil (or vegetable or canola oil)

For Dusting

• Icing sugar

How to Make Orange Loaf Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Combine the Greek yogurt, granulated sugar, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract.
2. Whisk until smooth.
3. Gradually whisk in the olive oil until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Add the dry ingredients from step two into the wet mixture:
1. Stir gently until just combined; do not over-mix as this may affect the texture.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan:
1. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes or until the top is deep golden brown.
2. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when done.

Step 6: Cool Down

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes:
1. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Dust with icing sugar if desired or drizzle with an optional glaze (see recipe notes).

How to Serve Orange Loaf Cake

Orange loaf cake is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at breakfast, as a snack, or for dessert, there are many delightful options to enhance its flavor and presentation.

Pair with Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Serve with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a fresh burst of flavor.
• Citrus slices: Complement the orange loaf with thin slices of grapefruit or lemon for added zest.

Add a Creamy Topping

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess and balances the sweetness.
• Whipped cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can make each slice feel indulgent.

Drizzle with Glaze

• Orange glaze: A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice will enhance the cake’s citrus notes.
• Chocolate drizzle: For a richer flavor, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top.

Serve with Tea or Coffee

• Herbal tea: Pairing your loaf cake with a warm cup of herbal tea creates a soothing experience.
• Coffee: A strong cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

How to Perfect Orange Loaf Cake

Achieving the perfect orange loaf cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out just right.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh oranges for zest and juice will provide the best flavor.
• Don’t over-mix: Mixing just until combined helps keep the cake tender and light.
• Check doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when done.
• Cool properly: Letting it cool in the pan for 20 minutes prevents it from breaking apart.
• Store correctly: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container to maintain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Loaf Cake

Enjoying orange loaf cake can be elevated by pairing it with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balance to each slice.
2. Cottage Cheese: The mild flavor and creamy texture add protein and richness alongside the sweet loaf.
3. Granola: Crunchy granola offers texture contrast, making for an exciting breakfast option.
4. Chia Pudding: Creamy chia pudding can be flavored with vanilla or almond, enhancing your meal experience.
5. Herbal Infusion: Serve a refreshing herbal infusion like mint or chamomile for a calming drink option.
6. Nut Mix: A variety of nuts adds crunchiness and healthy fats that complement the moistness of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious Orange Loaf Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final product. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using stale ingredients: Always check the freshness of your baking ingredients like flour and baking powder. Using stale ingredients can lead to poor texture and flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: It’s easy to get carried away when mixing, but overmixing can result in a dense cake. Stir just until combined for a light, airy loaf.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science, so precise measurements are crucial. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to ensure you’re not adding too much.
• Skipping the cooling time: Patience is key! Letting your loaf cool in the pan before transferring it helps maintain its shape and prevents it from breaking.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Always preheat your oven and consider using an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Orange Loaf Cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Orange Loaf Cake

• Wrap slices or whole loaf in plastic wrap, then foil for up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Label with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Orange Loaf Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds. Keep an eye on it to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Orange Loaf Cake:

How can I enhance the orange flavor in my Orange Loaf Cake?

Adding extra orange zest or replacing some of the yogurt with orange juice can boost the citrus flavor significantly.

Can I use other citrus fruits instead of oranges?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with lemons or limes if you want to try a different citrus twist.

What can I serve with my Orange Loaf Cake?

Orange Loaf Cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a fruit compote. You can also enjoy it alongside tea or coffee.

How long does it take to bake an Orange Loaf Cake?

Typically, this cake will take about 50-55 minutes at 350°F (175°C) but always check with a toothpick for doneness.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Loaf Cake is not only incredibly moist but also versatile enough for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. Its bright citrus flavor makes it a delightful treat any time of day. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or drizzling a glaze on top for extra sweetness! Give this recipe a try and enjoy all its delicious possibilities!

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Orange Loaf Cake

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: About 10 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful taste of our Orange Loaf Cake, an incredibly moist and zesty treat bursting with fresh orange flavor. This cake is crafted with healthier ingredients like olive oil and Greek yogurt, making it a lighter option without compromising on taste. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, this easy-to-make cake will impress your guests at any gathering. Its simplicity allows you to whip it up quickly, while the bright citrus notes leave a refreshing impression. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up with a dusting of icing sugar or a drizzle of glaze, this Orange Loaf Cake is sure to become a favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• ¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup olive oil

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, sugar, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually whisk in olive oil until well incorporated.
5. Fold in the dry ingredients gently until just combined—avoid overmixing.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Allow cooling in the pan for about 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 140mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Use fresh oranges for maximum flavor from both zest and juice. For added texture, consider folding in nuts or chocolate chips before baking. To enhance the orange flavor, feel free to add extra zest or replace part of the yogurt with additional orange juice.