Orange Pound Cake: A Bright, Moist Classic with Citrus Elegance

Introduction

Orange Pound Cake is a timeless bake that brings warmth, fragrance, and balance to the table. With its dense yet tender crumb and vibrant citrus aroma, this cake feels comforting while remaining refreshingly light. I often choose this recipe when I want a dependable dessert that suits both everyday enjoyment and special occasions. The natural sweetness of fresh oranges enhances the richness of the batter, creating a cake that is flavorful without being heavy. What makes this pound cake especially appealing is its versatility; it can be served plain, lightly dusted with powdered sugar, or finished with a simple orange glaze for added brightness. Each slice holds its shape beautifully while remaining soft and moist. Whether paired with tea, served as a brunch treat, or enjoyed as a make-ahead dessert, Orange Pound Cake is a classic recipe that never fails to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is moist, aromatic, and easy to prepare using simple ingredients. The orange flavor is fresh and natural, not overpowering, and the cake keeps well for several days. It is reliable, elegant, and suitable for a wide range of occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour provides the structure needed for a classic pound cake while keeping the crumb tender and stable.

Butter adds richness and contributes to the cake’s soft, velvety texture. Using properly softened butter ensures smooth mixing.

Sugar sweetens the cake and helps create a fine, even crumb without heaviness.

Eggs bind the ingredients together and give the cake its characteristic density and richness.

Orange zest delivers concentrated citrus aroma and flavor, infusing the cake with freshness.

Orange juice adds moisture and enhances the natural sweetness of the batter.

Milk softens the crumb and balances the richness of the butter and eggs.

Baking powder provides gentle lift, ensuring the cake is dense yet not heavy.

Salt balances sweetness and sharpens the citrus flavor.

Vanilla extract adds warmth and depth, rounding out the bright orange notes.

Directions

Begin by preheating the oven and preparing a loaf pan by greasing and lining it. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, milk, and vanilla extract until fully combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until just incorporated.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake until the cake is golden and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool briefly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 10 slices. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with a baking time of 55 to 60 minutes. Total time is roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to five days. Serve at room temperature for best flavor. Reheating is not necessary.

Variations and Customizations

Orange Pound Cake adapts beautifully to different preferences. A simple orange glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh juice can be poured over the cooled cake for added sweetness and shine. For a deeper citrus profile, combine orange and lemon zest in the batter.

You can also add poppy seeds for texture or fold in finely chopped candied orange peel for a more traditional finish. For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based butter and milk, ensuring they are suitable for baking.

Each variation preserves the moist texture and citrus character while allowing creative flexibility.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This cake is rich and satisfying, providing energy from carbohydrates and fats. It contains dairy and eggs and is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Zest technique
Zest only the colored part of the orange to avoid bitterness.

Mixing control
Avoid overmixing once flour is added to maintain tenderness.

Even baking
Bake on the center rack for uniform rise and color.

FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh juice is recommended for best flavor, but bottled can be used if necessary.

Why is my pound cake dry?

Overbaking or too much flour can cause dryness.

Can I freeze Orange Pound Cake?

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months.

What pan works best?

A standard loaf pan or bundt pan works well.

Can I add a glaze?

Yes, a light orange glaze pairs perfectly.

Should ingredients be at room temperature?

Yes, this ensures smooth mixing and even baking.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Slight reductions are possible but may affect texture.

How do I know when it is done?

A skewer inserted into the center should come out clean.

Can I add nuts?

Yes, finely chopped almonds or walnuts work well.

Does this cake travel well?

Yes, it holds its structure and moisture nicely.

Conclusion

Orange Pound Cake is a dependable, elegant dessert that highlights the natural brightness of citrus in a rich, moist crumb. Simple to prepare and endlessly enjoyable, it is a classic recipe that fits effortlessly into both everyday baking and special occasions.

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