If you’re on the hunt for a delightful dessert that combines simplicity with incredible flavor, look no further than this Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for any occasion, whether it be a casual afternoon gathering or an elegant dinner party. Bursting with fresh orange flavor and drizzled with a sweet glaze, this cake will surely impress your family and friends. The best part? You can whip it up in no time, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike. In this article, we’ll guide you through each step of creating this moist and flavorful cake that promises to become a staple in your recipe collection. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of zesty goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality all-purpose flour for a light texture; sift it before measuring for best results.
- Baking Powder: This ingredient helps the cake rise beautifully; ensure it’s fresh for optimal performance.
- Caster Sugar: Finely granulated sugar that dissolves quickly; it contributes to the sweetness and texture of the cake.
- Unsalted Butter: Softened butter provides richness; allow it to come to room temperature before using.
- Large Eggs: Use room temperature eggs for better mixing; they help bind all ingredients together.
- Zest of Oranges: Freshly grated zest adds vibrant flavor; use organic oranges if possible to avoid pesticides.
- Fresh Orange Juice: Fresh juice enhances the taste; avoid bottled juice for the best flavor profile.
For the Glaze:
- Icing Sugar: This powdered sugar creates a smooth glaze; sift before mixing with juice.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a rectangular baking tray (approximately 9×13 inches) with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder until well combined. Set aside so you can focus on the wet ingredients next.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and caster sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavoring
Add eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then mix in the freshly grated orange zest and juice until incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix as this can lead to tough cake texture.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking tray, spreading it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
Serving suggestion: Once baked and cooled slightly, drizzle with icing made from icing sugar mixed with fresh orange juice before slicing into squares.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Sift Your Flour: Sifting ensures there are no lumps in your flour which leads to a smoother batter.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer if unsure about your oven’s accuracy for consistent baking results.
- Add More Zest If Desired: For an extra zingy flavor, consider increasing the amount of orange zest in both the cake batter and glaze.
How to Serve Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
This Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee enhance the citrus notes, making for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of ice cream adds a creamy contrast that balances the cake’s sweetness.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy berries provide a tartness that complements the orange drizzle perfectly.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake up to two days in advance. Bake and let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it at room temperature for optimal freshness.
- Storing: Place leftovers in an airtight container. The cake can last up to five days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to three months.
- Reheating: To enjoy the cake warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place individual slices on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10 minutes. This will help maintain its moist texture without drying it out.
Suggestions for Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
Use Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake. When selecting oranges, opt for ones that are firm and fragrant. Fresh eggs and high-quality flour will also enhance the texture and taste of your cake. Avoid using stale or expired ingredients, as they can negatively impact both flavor and moisture levels. Additionally, freshly squeezed orange juice brings a vibrant citrus flavor that bottled juice simply cannot match. Investing in fresh ingredients ensures a delightful experience for you and your guests.
Don’t Overmix the Batter
Overmixing the batter is a common mistake that can lead to a dense cake rather than the light and fluffy texture you desire. When combining your dry and wet ingredients, mix them just until they are incorporated. If you see some small lumps, that’s okay; they will bake out during cooking. Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour too much, resulting in a tough cake. Aim for a gentle folding motion when incorporating ingredients to keep your Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake airy and delicious.
Let It Cool Before Drizzling
Another important step is allowing your traybake to cool completely before adding the orange drizzle. If you drizzle while the cake is still warm, the icing will run off, making it difficult to achieve that beautiful finish. Cooling also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste of your cake. Ideally, let your cake sit in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This simple step will make a big difference in presentation and flavor.
Adjust Baking Time Based on Your Oven
Ovens can vary widely in temperature accuracy, so it’s essential to adjust baking time based on your specific appliance. Keep an eye on your Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake as it bakes; start checking for doneness about five minutes before the recommended time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. If it’s still wet, give it additional time but check every few minutes to avoid overbaking.
FAQs
What makes an Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake different from other cakes?
The unique feature of an Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake lies in its zesty orange flavor paired with a sweet glaze drizzled on top after baking. This glaze is typically made from powdered sugar and freshly squeezed orange juice, which enhances both sweetness and citrus notes. Unlike traditional layered cakes, traybakes are easier to prepare and serve since they use a single layer baked in one pan. The simplicity makes this cake perfect for gatherings or afternoon tea while still offering delightful flavors.
Can I substitute other citrus fruits in my Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake?
Absolutely! While oranges provide a refreshing taste, feel free to experiment with other citrus fruits like lemons or limes in your drizzle cake recipe. Each fruit brings its own unique flavor profile; lemons lend a tartness that can brighten up the sweetness of the cake, while limes add an exotic twist. Just remember to adjust sugar levels accordingly since some fruits may be more acidic than others. Your creativity will yield delicious results no matter which citrus you choose!
How should I store my Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake?
To maintain its freshness, store your Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a particularly humid climate, consider refrigerating it to prevent spoilage, but be aware that refrigeration may slightly alter its texture over time. For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in freezer-safe bags; this way, you can enjoy your cake even after several weeks without losing flavor or quality.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily adapt your Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake recipe to be gluten-free by using gluten-free flour blends available at most grocery stores. These blends often contain rice flour or almond flour mixed with starches like tapioca or potato starch for better consistency when baking. Just ensure that all other ingredients used are also certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination issues if necessary.
Conclusion for Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
In summary, making an irresistible Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake involves using fresh ingredients and being mindful of mixing techniques to achieve optimal texture. Allowing the cake to cool before adding drizzle enhances both presentation and flavor while adjusting baking times based on oven variances ensures perfect results every time. With these tips and knowledge about substitutions or storage options at hand, you’re well-prepared for baking success! Enjoy creating this delightful treat that’s sure to impress family and friends alike with its bright citrus flavor!
Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is a refreshing dessert that effortlessly combines the bright flavors of fresh oranges with a moist, tender cake. This easy-to-make traybake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual afternoon tea or a festive gathering. The cake is infused with zesty orange juice and zest, and finished with a sweet citrus glaze that adds an irresistible shine and flavor. With its inviting aroma and delightful taste, this Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake will surely impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 250g all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 200g caster sugar
- 150g unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- Zest and juice of 2 oranges
- 150g icing sugar (for glaze)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a rectangular baking tray (9×13 inches).
- 2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
- 3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- 4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then incorporate the orange zest and juice.
- 5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- 6. Pour the batter into the prepared tray and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- 7. Let cool slightly before drizzling with icing made from icing sugar mixed with orange juice.
Notes
– Use fresh oranges for maximum flavor; avoid bottled juice.
– Adjust the amount of orange zest for more intensity.
– Experiment with other citrus fruits like lemons or limes for variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: General
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Leave a Comment