Orange Pound Cake

Name: Orange Pound Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 large eggs; ¾ cup caster sugar; 1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour, sifted; ¾ teaspoon baking powder; ⅔ cup salted butter, melted; Juice and zest of 1 orange

Published: December 13, 2025

by Aileen Reed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, making it ideal even for beginner bakers.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of fresh orange juice and zest infuses the cake with vibrant citrus notes that elevate its taste.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple dessert at home, this cake fits every situation beautifully.
Moist and Tender Texture: The use of melted butter ensures a soft, moist crumb that’s sure to please everyone.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or paired with whipped cream for an extra treat.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Orange Pound Cake, having the right tools is essential. These will help ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Whisk
Sifter
Loaf tin
Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spilling.
Whisk: Using a whisk helps incorporate air into your batter, making the cake lighter and fluffier.
Sifter: Sifting flour prevents clumps and ensures an even texture in your cake.
Loaf tin: A good-quality loaf tin provides even baking and helps maintain the shape of your pound cake.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Orange Pound Cake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cake

3 large eggs
¾ cup (160g) caster sugar
1 ⅓ cup (160g) all-purpose flour, sifted
¾ teaspoon baking powder
⅔ cup (150g) salted butter, melted
1 orange (juice + zest)

How to Make Orange Pound Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 10 x 4.5-inch (25 × 10 cm) loaf tin. This step ensures your cake will bake evenly without sticking.

Step 2: Whisk Eggs and Sugar

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and caster sugar until pale and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which is crucial for a light texture.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in the all-purpose flour along with the baking powder. Stir well until just combined; be careful not to overmix to keep your cake light.

Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients

Add the melted butter along with the freshly squeezed orange juice and zest. Stir well until fully combined; this adds rich flavor and moisture.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin. Bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the pound cake to cool completely before serving for best results.

How to Serve Orange Pound Cake

Serving Orange Pound Cake is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. The cake’s moist, fragrant texture pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings and sides.

With Fresh Berries

Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries add a burst of color and flavor. Their natural sweetness complements the citrus notes of the cake.

With Whipped Cream

A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream provides a creamy contrast to the dense pound cake. Consider adding a hint of vanilla for extra richness.

With Citrus Glaze

Drizzling a simple citrus glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice enhances the cake’s flavor while adding a glossy finish.

With Ice Cream

Serve slices of Orange Pound Cake alongside a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for a refreshing treat that’s perfect for warm days.

In Parfaits

Layer pieces of Orange Pound Cake with yogurt and fruit in a glass for an elegant dessert parfait that’s great for brunch or special occasions.

How to Perfect Orange Pound Cake

To achieve the best results with your Orange Pound Cake, follow these helpful tips.

Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your eggs are fresh and your oranges are ripe. Fresh ingredients lead to better flavor and texture.
Sift flour properly: Sifting the flour helps avoid lumps and ensures an even distribution in the batter, resulting in a lighter cake.
Don’t overmix: Once you combine wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense pound cake.
Test for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is finished baking. If it comes out wet, bake for additional time.
Cool completely: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan before transferring helps maintain its shape and prevents it from breaking apart.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Pound Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Orange Pound Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

Citrus Salad: A refreshing mix of orange segments, grapefruit, and mint brightens up your plate.
Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of rich chocolate sauce adds decadence that pairs well with the tangy orange flavors.
Caramel Sauce: Warm caramel sauce provides a sweet contrast that melts into each slice of cake.
Nuts: Toasted almonds or walnuts offer crunch and depth when sprinkled on top or served on the side.
Fruit Compote: A warm fruit compote made from seasonal fruits adds moisture and complements the orange taste beautifully.
Tea or Coffee: Enjoying your cake with a cup of tea or coffee enhances the flavors while providing balance to sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking an Orange Pound Cake can be straightforward, but a few common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are some key points to keep in mind.

Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always ensure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking. An oven that’s too hot or too cool can affect the cake’s rise and texture.
Overmixing Batter: Mixing too much can create a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use proper measuring tools for accuracy. A scale is best for dry ingredients like flour, while liquid measuring cups work well for liquids.
Ignoring Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps them blend more smoothly into the batter for an even consistency.
Skipping the Cooling Process: Letting the cake cool completely in the tin prevents it from breaking apart when you remove it. Patience is key!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
The Orange Pound Cake can last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Orange Pound Cake

Wrap slices or whole cakes tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Orange Pound Cake

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and heat for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 10–15 seconds. Keep an eye on it to avoid overheating.
Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Orange Pound Cake moist?

The combination of melted butter and freshly squeezed orange juice contributes to its moisture.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Orange Pound Cake?

Adding extra orange zest or using flavored extracts like vanilla can enhance the citrus notes.

Can I substitute other citrus fruits?

Yes! You can use lemon or lime juice and zest as alternatives for a different citrus flavor.

How should I serve Orange Pound Cake?

This cake pairs well with whipped cream or fresh fruit. It’s also delightful on its own!

Final Thoughts

This Orange Pound Cake recipe is fragrant, moist, and perfect for various occasions. Its versatility allows for customization, such as adding nuts or using different citrus fruits. Try baking this delightful treat today!

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