Best Orange Cake with Glaze

Picture this: a moist, tender cake bursting with bright orange flavor, topped with a glossy, sweet glaze that makes your taste buds dance with joy. This orange cake with glaze is pure sunshine on a plate!

Just like our popular lemon drizzle cake that readers absolutely adore, this citrusy creation delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. The best part? It takes just 15 minutes to prep and uses pantry staples you likely already have at home.

What is Orange Cake with Glaze?

Ever wondered why we call it “orange cake with glaze” instead of just orange cake? Well, it’s all about that stunning, glossy finish that transforms a simple cake into something spectacular! The glaze is the star of the show – it soaks into the cake, creating pockets of sweet citrus heaven.

As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this cake definitely proves that point. Ready to create some kitchen magic?

Why You’ll Love This Orange Cake with Glaze:

Irresistibly Moist and Flavorful

This orange cake with glaze delivers an explosion of citrus flavor in every single bite. The combination of fresh orange juice, zest, and a hint of vanilla creates a perfectly balanced taste that’s neither too sweet nor too tart. The tender crumb practically melts in your mouth, while the glaze adds an extra layer of orange intensity that will have you coming back for seconds.

Budget-Friendly Home Baking

Making this orange cake with glaze at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay at a bakery. With basic ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and fresh oranges, you can create a dessert that rivals any professional cake. Unlike our elaborate chocolate ganache cake, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results without breaking the bank.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving something sweet, this orange cake with glaze fits every occasion. The beautiful presentation makes it impressive enough for guests, while the easy preparation makes it perfect for weeknight treats. The vibrant orange color and glossy finish create an Instagram-worthy dessert that looks as amazing as it tastes.

Ready to fill your kitchen with the incredible aroma of fresh oranges? Let’s get baking!

How to Make Orange Cake with Glaze:

Quick Overview

This orange cake with glaze combines simplicity with spectacular results. The cake itself is incredibly moist thanks to the addition of sour cream and fresh orange juice, while the glaze creates a beautiful finish that seeps into every pore of the cake.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 12 slices

Key Ingredients for Orange Cake with Glaze:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• ¾ cup sour cream
• ½ cup fresh orange juice
• Zest of 2 large oranges
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Orange Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ¼ cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• Zest of 1 orange
• Pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preparing the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or bundt pan thoroughly. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.

Adding Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract, fresh orange juice, and orange zest. The mixture might look slightly curdled at this point, but that’s perfectly normal.

Combining Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined. Don’t overmix, as this can make the cake tough.

Baking the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.

Making the Glaze

While the cake cools, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, fresh orange juice, melted butter, orange zest, and a pinch of salt. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but thin enough to pour smoothly.

Final Assembly

Once the cake has cooled for about 15 minutes, poke holes all over the surface with a skewer or fork. Slowly pour the glaze over the warm cake, allowing it to soak in. Let the cake cool completely before serving to allow the glaze to set properly.

What to Serve Orange Cake with Glaze With:

This versatile orange cake with glaze pairs beautifully with several accompaniments. Serve it alongside a dollop of freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. A cup of hot coffee or Earl Grey tea complements the citrus flavors perfectly.

For a more elaborate dessert spread, consider pairing it with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries. The tartness of the berries balances the sweetness of the glaze beautifully. A glass of sparkling water with a twist of lime also makes a refreshing accompaniment that cleanses the palate between bites.

Top Tips for Perfecting Orange Cake with Glaze:

Use Fresh Oranges for Maximum Flavor

Always use fresh orange juice and zest rather than bottled juice. The natural oils in fresh orange zest provide intense flavor that can’t be replicated with artificial alternatives. Roll the oranges on the counter before juicing to extract maximum juice.

Room Temperature Ingredients Are Key

Ensure your eggs, butter, and sour cream are at room temperature before beginning. This helps create a smooth, even batter that bakes uniformly. If you forget to take ingredients out ahead of time, place eggs in warm water for 5 minutes and microwave butter for 10-15 seconds.

Don’t Skip the Hole-Poking Step

Poking holes in the warm cake before adding the glaze is crucial for proper absorption. Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to create holes about 1 inch apart across the entire surface. This allows the glaze to penetrate deep into the cake, creating pockets of concentrated orange flavor.

Glaze Consistency Matters

The perfect glaze should be thick enough to coat the cake but thin enough to soak in. If it’s too thick, add orange juice one teaspoon at a time. If it’s too thin, add powdered sugar gradually until you reach the right consistency.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

Store your orange cake with glaze covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to one week. The cake actually improves after a day or two as the flavors meld together and the glaze continues to penetrate the cake.

For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen slices at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

If you prefer to serve the cake warm, microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds, being careful not to overheat as this can make the cake tough. The glaze will become slightly more fluid when warmed, creating an extra-glossy finish.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Slice (1/12 of cake)
Calories	285
Total Fat	8g
Saturated Fat	5g
Cholesterol	65mg
Sodium	195mg
Total Carbs	52g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Sugars	41g
Protein	4g
Vitamin C	12mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different citrus fruit instead of orange?

Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with lemons, limes, or even grapefruit. Simply substitute the orange juice and zest with your preferred citrus fruit in equal amounts. Keep in mind that lemon and lime will create a more tart flavor profile.

Why did my cake turn out dry?

A dry cake usually results from overbaking or overmixing the batter. Check your cake 5 minutes before the recommended baking time, and remember to mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. The sour cream in this recipe should help maintain moisture.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This orange cake with glaze actually tastes better after sitting for a day. The glaze continues to soak into the cake, creating even more intense orange flavor. Make it up to 2 days in advance and store covered at room temperature.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt works as an excellent substitute for sour cream in equal amounts. You can also use buttermilk, though you may need to reduce the orange juice slightly to maintain the proper batter consistency.

How do I know when the cake is perfectly done?

The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. The top should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched. Overbaking will result in a dry cake.

Can I make this in a bundt pan?

Definitely! A bundt pan creates a beautiful presentation for this orange cake with glaze. The baking time may increase slightly to 50-55 minutes, so keep an eye on it and test with a toothpick.

Expert Baking Variations and Tips

Consider these creative variations to make this orange cake with glaze uniquely yours. Add a tablespoon of poppy seeds for texture and visual appeal, or incorporate a layer of cream cheese frosting between the cake and glaze for extra richness.

For chocolate lovers, try adding orange zest to chocolate chips and folding them into the batter. The combination of chocolate and orange creates a sophisticated flavor profile that’s perfect for special occasions.

Seasonal variations work beautifully too. During the holidays, add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the batter, or garnish the finished cake with candied orange peels for an elegant touch.

Remember, baking is both an art and a science. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations while maintaining the basic structure of this tried-and-true recipe. Your orange cake with glaze will become a signature dessert that friends and family will request time and again.

This orange cake with glaze proves that sometimes the simplest recipes create the most memorable moments. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something sweet, this sunny, citrusy creation is guaranteed to brighten any day.