Spring Baking: Orange Glazed Pound Cake in 5 Steps

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Servings: 10

Spring is the perfect season to experience the delightful flavors of citrus, and what better way to celebrate than with a homemade orange glazed pound cake? This recipe is not just about baking; it’s about creating a cozy atmosphere in your kitchen while filling your home with the enchanting aroma of fresh oranges. With just five simple steps, you’ll craft a cake that can effortlessly be the star of any gathering. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned baker, this cake is designed to impress your family and friends, making it a go-to favorite.

What Is Spring Baking: Orange Glazed Pound Cake in 5 Steps?

Spring baking highlights seasonal ingredients, and this orange glazed pound cake shines brightly with citrus. The cake itself is rich and buttery, infused with fresh orange zest and juice that not only enhances flavor but also keeps the loaf moist. Topped with a sweet, tangy orange glaze, every bite is a refreshing delight that evokes the spirit of spring.

Why You’ll Love This

There are countless reasons why you’ll adore this recipe. First, it’s straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it accessible even for busy parents or those just starting out in the kitchen. The cake’s vibrant flavor pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, perfect for afternoon gatherings or brunch with friends. Secondly, the recipe allows room for creativity, enabling you to customize the glaze or even the cake itself. Finally, the satisfaction of baking something from scratch is incredibly rewarding, and your loved ones will appreciate the effort you put into producing such a flavorful cake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour: The foundation of your pound cake, providing structure and texture.
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to its tender crumb.
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy blending.
• 3 large eggs: Binds the ingredients and helps the cake rise.
• 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed orange juice: Brings a bright, zesty flavor while keeping the cake moist.
• Zest of 2 oranges: Releases essential oils, enhancing the cake’s citrus aroma.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Provides leavening for a light and fluffy texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies overall flavor.

How to Make

1. Prepare the oven and pan: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan thoroughly with butter and lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This process not only ensures even distribution of baking powder throughout the flour but will also help with the cake’s rise.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. You want to incorporate plenty of air, which contributes to that beautifully tender crumb.
4. Add the eggs and orange components: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the freshly squeezed orange juice and orange zest until well combined.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix; just stir until no dry flour is visible.
6. Bake the pound cake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in your preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes; if it starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with aluminum foil.

Variations & Substitutions

Chocolate Orange Pound Cake: For chocolate lovers, consider adding 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients. This chocolate-orange combination will yield a rich and delightful cake that is perfect for special occasions or a decadent treat at home.

Gluten-Free Option: If you’re avoiding gluten, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that your baking powder is also gluten-free. This alteration will allow everyone to enjoy this delicious cake without any dietary issues.

Mixed Citrus Glaze: Instead of just using orange glaze, blend lemon and lime juice with the powdered sugar for a vibrant, mixed citrus flavor. This new glaze will offer a more complex taste profile that pairs beautifully with the pound cake’s sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the batter: It’s tempting to keep mixing to achieve a perfectly smooth batter, but overmixing can lead to a dense and tough pound cake. Stir just until the dry ingredients are incorporated.

Not using room temperature ingredients: When baking, it’s essential that your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps them blend together more seamlessly, leading to a lighter texture in the final product.

Skipping the glaze: The orange glaze may seem optional, but skipping it will leave your cake lacking a final touch of brightness. The glaze not only adds sweetness but also enhances the cake’s beautiful orange flavor.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips

For best storage, keep your orange glazed pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, the cake can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

When reheating, slice the pound cake and place it in the microwave for about 10 seconds. This warms the cake and enhances its moisture, making it a delightful treat let alone fresh from the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other citrus fruits instead of orange? Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. You can easily substitute with lemon, lime, or even grapefruit to create a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the amount of juice and zest based on the fruit’s intensity.

What’s the secret to a moist pound cake? The key to a moist pound cake lies in not overbaking it, as dry heat can quickly sap moisture. Additionally, the combination of butter, eggs, and orange juice works together to maintain moisture, creating that delectable texture you desire.

Can I make this pound cake ahead of time? Yes, this cake is perfect for making ahead! You can bake it a day or two before you plan to serve it. Just make sure to store it properly in an airtight container. This cake also tastes even better after a day as the flavors deepen and develop.

How do I know when my cake is done baking? To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. If batter clings to it, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

What should I serve with my pound cake? This orange glazed pound cake is delicious on its own but is also delightful served with whipped cream, fresh berries, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also add a side of citrus fruit salad for a refreshing contrast to the sweet cake.

Conclusion: You are now equipped with everything you need to create the perfect orange glazed pound cake! With its simple yet scrumptious flavor and delightful texture, baking this cake will surely blossom into a cherished tradition. So gather your ingredients and start baking; spring is waiting for your delicious creation!