Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Orange Velvet Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a tea party, or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake offers a moist and rich flavor profile with a zesty orange kick. It’s not just visually appealing with its two-tone glaze; it also brings warmth and comfort to your table. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious Orange Velvet Pound Cake that combines simplicity and elegance in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of fresh orange juice and zest gives this cake a vibrant taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this stunning cake without stress.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for birthdays, afternoon teas, or as a delightful ending to any meal.
• Beautiful Presentation: The two-tone glaze adds an eye-catching element that makes it look as good as it tastes.
• Moist and Tender Texture: This cake stays soft and moist, making each slice melt in your mouth.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results while making Orange Velvet Pound Cake, having the right tools is essential. These tools will not only make the baking process smoother but also enhance the overall outcome of your cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt pan: This unique shape helps the cake bake evenly while creating an attractive presentation.
• Electric mixer: It saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together for that fluffy texture.
• Whisk: Essential for mixing dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution in the batter.

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 1/2 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
• 1/2 tbsp fresh orange juice
• Optional: drop of orange food coloring or a pinch of turmeric for color
• Optional: 1/4 tsp orange extract for stronger flavor

How to Make Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Step 1: Prep

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

Step 3: Bake

Pour the batter into the 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 together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and pourable. Set aside.

Orange Glaze:

Whisk together powdered sugar and fresh orange juice (and optional coloring/flavoring) until glossy. Adjust consistency with more juice or sugar if needed.

Step 5: Decorate

Drizzle the white glaze over the cooled cake first. Follow this with the orange glaze to create a beautiful two-tone layered look as shown in your photo. Let set for at least 15 minutes before slicing into this delicious Orange Velvet Pound Cake!

How to Serve Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Serving Orange Velvet Pound Cake can elevate any gathering or special occasion. This moist and flavorful cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments, enhancing both its taste and presentation.

Accompaniments

• Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
• Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream complements the density of the pound cake beautifully.
• Ice Cream: Vanilla or orange-flavored ice cream provides a creamy texture that balances the citrus notes.
• Citrus Salad: A light salad of mixed citrus fruits brightens the dish while echoing the orange flavors in the cake.
• Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey can add a touch of sweetness and enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Mint Leaves: Garnishing with fresh mint leaves adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

How to Perfect Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Achieving the perfect Orange Velvet Pound Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better blending and texture.
• Sift Flour Twice: Sifting helps aerate the flour, resulting in a lighter, fluffier cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Blend ingredients until just combined to prevent developing too much gluten, which can lead to a dense cake.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
• Cool Properly: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting helps maintain its structure.
• Experiment with Glazes: Feel free to adjust glazes by adding different flavors or colors to create your signature look.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Orange Velvet Pound Cake can create a delightful dining experience. Here are some ideas that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Citrus Sorbet: A light sorbet made from oranges or lemons refreshes the palate between bites of cake.
2. Fruit Compote: A warm compote made from seasonal fruits enhances sweetness without overwhelming flavors.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a healthy side that contrasts nicely with the richness of the cake.
4. Chocolate Drizzle: A simple chocolate sauce drizzled over each slice introduces a decadent element that pairs well with orange.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can balance out sweetness while offering varied textures as you enjoy dessert.
6. Nuts and Seeds Mix: A crunchy mix of nuts and seeds adds texture and flavor complexity alongside soft cake slices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Orange Velvet Pound Cake, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Sifting: Not sifting your flour can lead to a denser cake. Always sift flour before measuring for better texture.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too long can make the cake tough. Combine ingredients until just mixed for a light, fluffy result.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven baking. Always preheat your oven properly and use an oven thermometer if needed.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin your cake’s structure. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups correctly for best results.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting the cake too soon can result in crumbling. Let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Orange Velvet Pound Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• For best results, keep it away from strong-smelling foods.

Freezing Orange Velvet Pound Cake

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Orange Velvet Pound Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Check frequently to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

Can I substitute other flavors for orange?

Yes! You can experiment with lemon or lime zest and juice for a different citrus twist while maintaining the same base recipe.

How do I add more orange flavor to my Orange Velvet Pound Cake?

In addition to using orange zest and juice, consider adding an extra teaspoon of orange extract or using flavored sugar during preparation for an intensified flavor.

Is there a way to make this cake more moist?

To enhance moisture, ensure you are using room-temperature ingredients, especially eggs and buttermilk. Adding an additional tablespoon of orange juice can also help.

Final Thoughts

Orange Velvet Pound Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. With its rich flavor profile and moist texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with different glazes or zest flavors to suit your taste!