Description

This Easy Orange Cake is a refreshing and delightful dessert that embodies the essence of summer. With its moist, fluffy texture and tangy cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to birthday celebrations. Infused with fresh orange zest and juicy mandarin oranges, each bite bursts with citrus flavor. The vibrant presentation, topped with orange slices, makes it not only delicious but also visually stunning. Your guests will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1.5 tsp baking powder
2 large eggs
1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup buttermilk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp orange extract
2 tbsp orange zest
Orange food coloring (to preference)
For frosting: 3 cups cream cheese frosting
1 cup orange marmalade
1 cup mandarin orange slices

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two greased/floured round cake pans.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder; set aside.
In another bowl, combine eggs, melted butter, and sugar until well mixed.
Add buttermilk, vanilla extract, orange extract, orange zest, and food coloring; stir until smooth.
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients; mix gently until combined.
Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool cakes completely before frosting with layers of cream cheese frosting and marmalade.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
Calories: 430
Sugar: 39g
Sodium: 210mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 63g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: To enhance flavor, use fresh oranges for zest and consider adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness. You can substitute gluten-free flour if needed or experiment with different fruits like berries or pineapple chunks.