Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Orange Velvet Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of butter and citrus for a moist, velvety treat. This cake is perfect for various occasions, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. Its standout features include a vibrant orange flavor and a stunning two-tone glaze that makes it visually appealing. Whether served at a brunch or as an after-dinner treat, Orange Velvet Pound Cake will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of orange zest and juice creates a fresh, zesty taste that brightens any occasion.
• Moist Texture: This pound cake boasts a rich and moist texture thanks to the buttermilk and butter used in the recipe.
• Versatile Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply enjoying with coffee on a weekend morning.
• Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make this cake accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Beautiful Presentation: The two-tone glaze adds an elegant touch that makes this cake visually stunning.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand to ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bundt pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt pan: Provides the iconic shape to your cake while allowing even baking.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together, ensuring a light texture.
• Whisk: Ideal for mixing dry ingredients thoroughly and achieving smooth glazes.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 cups (315g) cake flour (or all-purpose flour sifted 2x)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cups (350g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temp
• 1 tbsp orange zest (from 12 oranges)
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp orange extract (optional for extra punch)
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)

For the Orange Cream Glaze

For the White Glaze:

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk or cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Orange Glaze:

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice

Optional:
– Drop of orange food coloring or a pinch of turmeric for color
– 1 tsp orange extract for stronger flavor

How to Make Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Step 1: Prep the Oven

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan very well or use baking spray with flour.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
2. Cake flour
3. Baking soda
4. Salt
5. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
6. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
7. Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, and orange extract if using.
8. Alternate adding the dry ingredients with buttermilk, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overbeat.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour batter into prepared bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Glazes

White Glaze:

Whisk powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and pourable. Set aside.

Orange Glaze:

Whisk powdered sugar with fresh orange juice until glossy. Adjust consistency with more juice or sugar if needed.

Step 5: Decorate Your Cake

Drizzle white glaze over cooled cake first, followed by the orange glaze for a two-tone layered look. Let set for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

How to Serve Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Serving Orange Velvet Pound Cake can elevate any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal celebrations. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this vibrant dessert.

With Fresh Berries

• Top slices of the cake with a medley of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast. The berries add a burst of color and tartness that complements the sweetness of the cake.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a light and airy texture to each slice. You can sweeten the cream slightly with powdered sugar for extra flavor.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Vanilla or orange-flavored ice cream makes an indulgent pairing. The creaminess balances the rich flavors of the pound cake and creates a delightful dessert experience.

Drizzle with Citrus Syrup

• For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle a citrus syrup made from orange juice and sugar over each slice. This enhances the orange notes in the cake and keeps it moist.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Combine slices of Orange Velvet Pound Cake with assorted desserts like cookies and pastries on a platter. This variety is perfect for dessert tables at parties or events.

How to Perfect Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Perfecting your Orange Velvet Pound Cake ensures that every bite is moist and flavorful. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining dry ingredients with wet, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light, fluffy texture.
• Properly Grease the Pan: Use baking spray or grease and flour your bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking. This ensures easy removal after baking.
• Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center to check if it comes out clean. If it does, your cake is perfectly baked; if not, give it additional time in the oven.
• Cool Before Glazing: Allow your cake to cool completely before adding glazes. This prevents them from melting off and helps achieve that beautiful two-tone effect.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Pairing side dishes with Orange Velvet Pound Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing counterpart to the sweetness of the cake.
2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy, crunchy complement that contrasts nicely with the pound cake’s texture.
3. Chocolate Ganache
   Drizzling warm chocolate ganache over slices adds richness and satisfies chocolate lovers at your gathering.
4. Citrus Sorbet
   Light and refreshing, citrus sorbet cleanses the palate between bites of rich pound cake while echoing its orange flavors.
5. Cheese Plate
   A selection of cheeses, particularly creamy brie or tangy goat cheese, balances sweetness beautifully and offers savory notes.
6. Caramel Sauce
   Warm caramel sauce drizzled over slices adds decadent sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the citrus notes in the cake.
7. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts provide crunch and complexity, making them an excellent snack alongside slices of pound cake.
8. Coffee or Tea
   Serving hot beverages like coffee or tea complements dessert beautifully, providing warmth that enhances flavors in both drinks and cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Orange Velvet Pound Cake turns out perfectly, watch out for these common mistakes.

• Boldly skipping the sifting: Failing to sift your flour can lead to a dense cake. Always sift your flour twice for a light texture.
• Boldly neglecting room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter will affect the batter’s consistency. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Boldly overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix until ingredients are just combined for a tender crumb.
• Boldly ignoring oven temperature: Baking at incorrect temperatures can cause uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Boldly skimping on cooling time: Cutting into the cake too soon can make it fall apart. Let it cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep moisture in.
• The cake can last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Velvet Pound Cake

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Orange Velvet Pound Cake

• Boldly using the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Boldly using the microwave: Heat individual slices in 30-second intervals until warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Boldly using stovetop methods: Place slices in a skillet over low heat with a lid on, warming gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Orange Velvet Pound Cake.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Orange Velvet Pound Cake?

You can enhance flavors by adding more orange zest or including orange extract. This will give your cake an extra citrusy kick.

Can I substitute buttermilk in this recipe?

Yes, you can use regular milk mixed with vinegar as a buttermilk substitute. Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes.

What is the best way to decorate my Orange Velvet Pound Cake?

Drizzling both white and orange glazes creates an attractive two-tone effect. Make sure to let each glaze set before serving.

How long does Orange Velvet Pound Cake stay fresh?

When stored properly, it can last up to one week in the refrigerator and up to three months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Velvet Pound Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different glazes or even add nuts for crunch. We encourage you to try this delightful treat that brightens any occasion!

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Orange Velvet Pound Cake

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Indulge in the delightful experience of Orange Velvet Pound Cake, a moist and flavorful dessert that combines the rich essence of butter with zesty orange notes. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual brunches to festive gatherings. Its stunning two-tone glaze not only enhances its visual appeal but also adds layers of sweet citrus flavor. With an easy-to-follow recipe, this treat is accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Serve it alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate the experience even further. Treat your guests—and yourself—to this refreshing slice of sunshine.

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups (315g) cake flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cups (350g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temp
• 1 tbsp orange zest
• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp orange extract (optional for extra punch)
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cake flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, and orange extract if using.
6. Alternate adding the dry ingredients with buttermilk, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overbeat.
7. Pour batter into prepared bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Whisk powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and pourable for the white glaze.
9. Whisk powdered sugar with fresh orange juice until glossy for the orange glaze.
10. Drizzle white glaze over cooled cake first, followed by the orange glaze. Let set for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 80g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For added flavor, increase orange zest or use both vanilla and orange extracts. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing results.