Summer is synonymous with vibrant colors and fresh flavors, epitomized by the quintessential citrus fruit: the orange. This Orange Cake with Zesty Cream Cheese Frosting is a tribute to all things bright and sunny, making it the perfect centerpiece for your summer gatherings, be it a backyard barbecue, a family reunion, or a simple afternoon tea.
Ingredients That Make the Cake
This cake is a symphony of flavors and textures, starting with its fluffy, moist layers that are rich in orange zest and juice, giving it a naturally vibrant taste. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this culinary masterpiece to life:
- For the Cake:
- 3 ¾ cups all-purpose, unbleached flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 egg whites, room temperature
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons orange zest (up to ¼ cup if desired)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons orange extract
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
- ⅓ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- Garnish: Orange slices, sage leaves, white and orange sanding sugar
- For the Zesty Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 1 ½ teaspoons orange extract
- ½ teaspoon vanilla paste (substitute vanilla extract if unavailable)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Creating Your Masterpiece
1. Prepare the Cake Layers: Start by preheating your oven to 350˚F and readying your cake pans. The secret to this cake’s fluffy texture lies in the creaming of butter, sugar, and orange zest, followed by the alternating addition of dry ingredients and buttermilk mixed with orange juice. The precise mixing and baking method ensures each layer is perfectly tender.
2. Whip up the Frosting: The frosting is where the cake gets its extra zing. The combination of butter, cream cheese, and orange elements whipped together creates a creamy, tangy frosting that complements the soft cake layers beautifully.
3. Assemble with Care: The assembly of the cake is as important as the baking. Layers of cake and frosting are stacked with precision, then the cake is adorned with a light coat of frosting on the outside, ready to be chilled before garnishing with fresh orange slices and sanding sugar for that final touch of elegance and flavor.
Why This Cake Stands Out
What sets this Orange Cake apart is the depth of flavor achieved by using real orange components such as fresh juice, zest, and extract. These elements ensure that each bite is infused with the essence of summer. The cake is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, with its bright layers and beautiful garnishing making it a stunning addition to any table.
Perfect for Every Occasion
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet and citrusy, this Orange Cake with Zesty Cream Cheese Frosting promises to deliver joy and sunshine in every slice. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings people together, making memories around the table.
So, dive into the art of baking and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful summer sensation. It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple for anyone who loves the irresistible combination of sweet and citrus.