Moist Orange Loaf Cake Recipe

Moist Orange Loaf Cake Recipe

A soft, buttery orange loaf cake with a beautiful golden crust, a moist crumb, and a refreshing citrus flavour.

Ingredients

 • All-purpose flour – 2 cups (250g)

 • Granulated sugar – ¾ cup (150g)

 • Butter – ½ cup (113g)

 • Eggs – 3 large

 • Fresh orange juice – ½ cup (120ml)

 • Milk – ¼ cup (60ml)

 • Fresh orange zest – 2 tablespoons

 • Baking powder – 2 teaspoons (8g)

 • Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon

 • Salt – ¼ teaspoon

Instructions

Prepare the ingredients

Preheat your oven to 170°C. Grease a loaf pan and line it with baking paper. Wash the oranges thoroughly before zesting and juicing them.

Cream the butter and sugar

Beat the butter and sugar together until light, creamy, and fluffy. This helps create a soft cake texture.

Add the eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and orange zest.

Combine the dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly.

Prepare the cake batter

Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in batches, alternating with the orange juice and milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Bake the cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake at 170°C for approximately 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.

Cool and serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before slicing.

Tips for a Perfect Orange Cake

 • Use fresh oranges for the best citrus flavour.

 • Use room-temperature butter, eggs, and milk for a smoother batter.

 • Avoid adding the white part of the orange peel when zesting, as it can taste bitter.

 • Do not overmix after adding the flour.

 • If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover it with foil during the final part of baking.

Storage

Store the completely cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Bring refrigerated slices to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Enjoy your soft, buttery, homemade orange loaf cake! 🍊🍰