Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Orange Velvet Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that marries the rich, velvety texture of pound cake with the refreshing zest of oranges. Perfect for celebrations, brunches, or simply as an afternoon treat, this cake stands out with its beautiful two-tone glaze and citrusy flavor. Whether served at a family gathering or enjoyed with a cup of tea, Orange Velvet Pound Cake is sure to impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh orange zest and juice brings a vibrant taste that makes every bite refreshing.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve impressive results without stress.
• Versatile Occasion: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or casual get-togethers, this cake fits seamlessly into any event.
• Stunning Presentation: The two-tone glaze not only adds flavor but also enhances the visual appeal, making it a showstopper on any dessert table.
• Moist Texture: The buttermilk ensures a tender and moist crumb that keeps the cake deliciously satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Orange Velvet Pound Cake, having the right tools will enhance your baking experience and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt pan: This unique shape not only gives the cake its distinctive look but also helps with even baking.
• Electric mixer: It saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together for a light and fluffy texture.
• Cooling rack: Essential for allowing air to circulate around the cake as it cools, preventing sogginess.

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 cup (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
• 2-3 tbsp fresh orange juice
• Optional: drop of orange food coloring or a pinch of turmeric for color
• Optional: ½ tsp orange extract for stronger flavor

How to Make Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Step 1: Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. 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 together the 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 and buttermilk to the mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overbeat.

Step 3: Bake

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

Step 4: Make the Glazes

White Glaze:

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

Orange Glaze:

1. Whisk together powdered sugar and fresh orange juice until glossy.
2. Adjust consistency with more juice or powdered sugar if necessary.

Step 5: Decorate

1. Drizzle the white glaze over the cooled cake first.
2. Follow with drizzling the orange glaze for a two-tone layered look.
3. Allow to set for at least 15 minutes before slicing into this delightful Orange Velvet Pound Cake!

How to Serve Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Orange Velvet Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its rich, buttery flavor and zesty orange notes make it versatile for different occasions and pairings.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of the cake with a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a refreshing contrast.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that complements the cake’s density beautifully.

As a Dessert Parfait

• Layer pieces of Orange Velvet Pound Cake with yogurt and fruit in a glass for an elegant dessert parfait.

With Ice Cream

• Pair warm slices with a scoop of vanilla or orange-flavored ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Drizzled with Extra Glaze

• Enhance each slice by drizzling additional orange glaze over the top just before serving for extra flavor.

How to Perfect Orange Velvet Pound Cake

For the best results when making your Orange Velvet Pound Cake, follow these helpful tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow eggs, butter, and buttermilk to come to room temperature for a smoother batter that incorporates air more effectively.
• Measure flour correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping directly from the bag to avoid packing it down, which can result in a denser cake.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to keep your cake fluffy and tender. Overmixing can develop gluten and cause toughness.
• Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature. An incorrect temperature can lead to uneven baking.
• Cool properly: Let the cake cool in the pan only briefly before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps prevent sogginess while allowing proper airflow.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Pairing side dishes with Orange Velvet Pound Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options that complement its flavors well.

1. Citrus Salad: A refreshing salad featuring mixed greens, citrus segments, and a light vinaigrette enhances the cake’s citrus notes.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream provides a rich contrast to the bright flavors of the cake.
3. Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce adds a decadent touch that balances sweetness with richness.
4. Honey Yogurt Dip: Serve with honey-sweetened yogurt for dipping; this adds creaminess and tanginess that pairs well.
5. Fruit Compote: A warm or chilled fruit compote made from seasonal fruits adds both color and flavor depth.
6. Nuts and Seeds Mix: A crunchy mix of toasted nuts or seeds can offer texture contrast alongside the soft cake.
7. Spiced Tea or Coffee: Brewed spiced tea or coffee pairs wonderfully for those who enjoy a warm beverage with dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when aiming for the perfect Orange Velvet Pound Cake. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Always make sure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense cake.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much after adding flour can cause the cake to be tough. Mix until just combined for a light texture.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Using too much flour can dry out your cake. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Skipping the Greasing Step: Failing to properly grease and flour your bundt pan can result in a cake that sticks. Take the time to coat it well.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Every oven is different. Check for doneness with a toothpick around the lower end of the suggested baking time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Orange Velvet Pound Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, to prevent freezer burn.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Velvet Pound Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds on high until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Orange Velvet Pound Cake that might help you out!

What makes Orange Velvet Pound Cake different from regular pound cake?

Orange Velvet Pound Cake has a vibrant citrus flavor from fresh orange juice and zest, giving it a unique taste that’s refreshing compared to traditional pound cakes.

Can I use other citrus fruits?

Yes! You can substitute orange with lemon or lime juice and zest for a different flavor profile while keeping that delightful velvet texture.

How do I achieve a nice glaze on my cake?

Ensure your glaze ingredients are whisked together until smooth and pourable. Drizzle slowly over the cooled cake for an eye-catching finish.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute buttermilk with plant-based milk mixed with vinegar or use a dairy-free butter alternative for the best results.

How should I store leftovers of Orange Velvet Pound Cake?

Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate it if you prefer. It stays fresh longer when stored properly!

Final Thoughts

The Orange Velvet Pound Cake is not only visually stunning but also bursting with citrus flavor that elevates any dessert table. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various glazes or even different citrus fruits. Try this delightful recipe today!