The BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is a delightful treat that brightens any occasion. With its light and fluffy texture, this cake is perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet indulgence during the week. The vibrant orange flavor paired with a sweet glaze makes it irresistible. Enjoy this easy-to-make dessert that will surely impress your guests!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cake
- For the Glaze
- How to Make BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
- Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- Step 4: Bake
- Step 5: Cool Down
- How to Serve BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Fresh Whipped Cream
- Greek Yogurt
- Fresh Fruit Salad
- Tea or Coffee
- Ice Cream
- Citrus Compote
- How to Perfect BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Best Side Dishes for BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Reheating BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I achieve a moist BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake?
- Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
- What type of oranges should I use for this cake?
- How do I make my icing thicker?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare – This traybake comes together quickly, making it perfect for both novice bakers and experienced cooks.
- Bursting with Flavor – The fresh orange zest and juice infuse the cake with a zesty freshness that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Versatile Serving Options – Serve it warm or cold, plain or decorated—this cake is adaptable for any dessert table.
- Ideal for Sharing – Cut into generous slices, it’s perfect for sharing at gatherings or potlucks.
- Moist and Delicious – The combination of ingredients ensures each bite is soft and moist, keeping everyone coming back for more.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking tin (8×10 inches)
- Baking paper
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl – A large bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk – This tool ensures that your butter and sugar become light and fluffy, which is key for a great cake texture.
- Baking tin – Using the right size ensures even baking and proper rise of your cake.
- Wire rack – Cooling on a rack prevents sogginess by allowing air to circulate around the cake.

Ingredients
To create this delicious dessert, gather the following ingredients:
For the Cake
- 250 g Softened butter
- 250 g Caster sugar
- 1 Teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 4 Medium Eggs
- 250 g Self-raising flour
- 3 Tablespoons Milk
- Zest of 1 Orange
For the Glaze
- 200 g Icing sugar
- 2 Tablespoons Freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1-2 Tablespoons Orange zest
How to Make BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180℃ (160℃ for fan ovens) and line your baking tin with baking paper. This step is crucial for ensuring even baking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cake its wonderful texture. Stir in the vanilla extract once combined.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. Slowly add in the self-raising flour and milk little by little while whisking until you have a smooth batter. Finally, stir in the orange zest to infuse flavor.
Step 4: Bake
Transfer your batter into the lined baking tin, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.
Step 5: Cool Down
Once baked, let your cake cool in the tin for around 10 minutes. Carefully flip it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
Enjoy every slice of this flavorful BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake!
How to Serve BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
Serving your BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake can elevate any gathering or celebration. This delightful cake pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and presentation.
Fresh Whipped Cream
- Light and airy, whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the citrus notes of the cake.
Greek Yogurt
- A dollop of Greek yogurt brings a tangy contrast, balancing the sweetness of the icing beautifully.
Fresh Fruit Salad
- A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing side, adding natural sweetness and a burst of flavor.
Tea or Coffee
- Serving this cake with a cup of tea or coffee creates a lovely afternoon treat, perfect for social gatherings.
Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla or orange-flavored ice cream can turn your traybake into an indulgent dessert.
Citrus Compote
- Drizzling citrus compote over each slice enhances the orange flavor while adding a zesty touch.
How to Perfect BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
To ensure your BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring butter and eggs are at room temperature helps achieve a smoother batter and better rise.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined prevents tough cakes. A few lumps are okay!
Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to confirm that your oven is at the right temperature for even baking.
Cool Before Icing: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding icing to prevent it from melting away.
Add Extra Zest: Incorporating more zest in the batter or icing can intensify the orange flavor for a more vibrant taste.
Best Side Dishes for BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
Pairing your BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake with complementary side dishes can enhance its appeal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
Vanilla Custard
A warm vanilla custard provides a rich, creamy contrast that pairs splendidly with the citrusy cake.Almond Biscotti
Crunchy almond biscotti can add texture and make for a delightful dip alongside your cake slices.Coconut Macaroons
Chewy coconut macaroons offer tropical notes that complement the orange flavor beautifully.Chocolate Ganache
Rich chocolate ganache drizzled over slices adds decadence and balances out the sweetness of the cake.Lemon Sorbet
A refreshing lemon sorbet serves as a palate cleanser and brings bright flavors to each bite.Mini Cheese Platter
A selection of mild cheeses creates an interesting savory contrast, making for sophisticated snacking alongside dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, and even a small mistake can alter your cake’s outcome. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid while making the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately – Baking is a science. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure that your ingredients are precise.
- Skipping the creaming step – Creaming butter and sugar together is essential for aeration. Don’t rush this step; take your time to achieve a light texture.
- Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can lead to dense cake. Mix the batter until just combined to keep it fluffy.
- Forgetting to preheat the oven – A hot oven ensures even baking. Always preheat before putting your cake in to achieve the perfect rise.
- Not letting the cake cool properly – Cooling helps set the structure of your cake. Allow it to cool in the tin for a short time before transferring it to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep it away from strong-smelling foods as it can absorb odors.
Freezing BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
- The cake can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Oven – Preheat to 160℃ (320℉) and warm for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop – Place on a skillet over low heat with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake.
How do I achieve a moist BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake?
To keep your cake moist, be careful not to overbake it. Adding fresh orange juice also enhances moisture.
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Yes! You can replace self-raising flour with all-purpose flour and add baking powder if needed.
What type of oranges should I use for this cake?
Using juicy, sweet oranges like navel or Valencia will provide the best flavor for your BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake.
How do I make my icing thicker?
If your icing is too runny, add more icing sugar gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
The BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With its light texture and zesty flavor, it’s sure to impress family and friends. Feel free to customize it with different citrus fruits or add nuts for an extra crunch!
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BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake, a light and fluffy dessert that captivates with its vibrant citrus flavor and sweet glaze. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations. With the refreshing essence of fresh orange zest and juice, each bite is a delightful treat. The combination of moist sponge and luscious icing makes it an irresistible choice for dessert lovers. Impress your guests or simply enjoy a slice during your afternoon tea—this cake is sure to brighten your day!
Ingredients
- 250 g softened butter
- 250 g caster sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 medium eggs
- 250 g self-raising flour
- 3 tablespoons milk
- Zest of 1 orange
- 200 g icing sugar
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1–2 tablespoons orange zest
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180℃ (160℃ for fan ovens). Line an 8×10 inch baking tin with baking paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Slowly incorporate the self-raising flour and milk until smooth. Stir in the orange zest.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking tin and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: General
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg





