Description
If you’re looking for a light, refreshing cake with a perfect balance of citrus and sweetness, this Easy Homemade Orange Poppy Seed Cake is just what you need. The bright orange flavor pairs wonderfully with the delicate crunch of poppy seeds, and the glaze adds a luscious touch that ties it all together. This cake is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a special celebration or a simple treat for yourself.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake:
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- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
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- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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- 1/4 teaspoon salt
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- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
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- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
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- 3 large eggs
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- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from 1 large orange)
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- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
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- 1/2 cup whole milk or buttermilk
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- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
For the Orange Glaze:
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- 1 cup powdered sugar
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- 2–3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
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- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or an 8-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt by whisking them together. Set the mixture aside.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. Beat until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add eggs and orange zest: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the orange zest.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the orange juice and milk (or buttermilk). Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Stir in the poppy seeds.
- Bake the cake: Transfer the batter into the prepared pan and level the top with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the glaze: Prepare the glaze by whisking the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest (if using) in a small bowl until smooth and easy to pour.
- Drizzle the glaze: Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the orange glaze over the top of the cake. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing and a fluffier texture in your cake.
- Zest and Juice Freshness: Fresh orange juice and zest are key for achieving the brightest citrus flavor, so try to use fresh oranges rather than bottled juice.
- Storage Flexibility: The cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 32 grams
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 12 grams
- Saturated Fat: 6 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 41 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 3 grams
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Keywords: Orange Poppy Seed Cake, Citrus Cake, Poppy Seed Dessert, Fresh Orange Cake, Easy Cake Recipe