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The Ultimate Moist Orange Juice Cake with Bright Citrus Glaze

A moist orange juice cake loaf, partially sliced, covered in a thick, dripping orange glaze.

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Create a super moist cake bursting with fresh orange flavor, topped with a simple, intensely flavored orange juice glaze. This easy recipe delivers a tender crumb perfect for brunch or dessert.

Ingredients

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  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice, plus 1 tablespoon for glaze
  • 1 tablespoon fresh orange zest
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan or an 8×8 inch square pan.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  4. Add the buttermilk, 1/2 cup of orange juice, and orange zest to the wet ingredients. Mix until just incorporated.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or by hand until the batter is smooth. Do not overmix.
  6. Pour the batter into your prepared pan.
  7. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. While the cake bakes, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and the remaining 1 tablespoon of orange juice until smooth. Adjust the liquid slightly if needed to reach a thick but pourable consistency.
  9. Once the cake is done, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
  10. Poke holes all over the top of the warm cake using a skewer or fork.
  11. Pour the orange juice glaze evenly over the warm cake, allowing it to soak in.
  12. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For the brightest citrus flavor, use fresh oranges for both the zest and the juice.
  • If you prefer a thinner glaze, add a few drops more orange juice. For a thicker glaze, add a small amount more powdered sugar.
  • This cake freezes well once completely cooled and stored in an airtight container.

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