Moist Orange Vanilla Cake

Name: Moist Orange Vanilla Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 slices
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ cups granulated sugar; ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed; Zest of 2 oranges; 3 large eggs; 1 tablespoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 orange

Highlighted under: Artisanal Baking Recipes

I absolutely love baking, and this Moist Orange Vanilla Cake is one of my all-time favorite recipes. The vibrant orange zest and smooth vanilla flavor create a delightful harmony, making every bite a treat. I enjoy serving this cake at special occasions or just as a sweet indulgence for my family. The moisture of the cake is unbeatable, and I believe the key lies in using fresh orange juice. It adds an extra layer of flavor that you won't get from bottled juice. Trust me, this cake is a showstopper!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-09T15:21:27.297Z

When I first decided to create this Moist Orange Vanilla Cake, I wanted a recipe that would encapsulate my love for citrus flavors. After several attempts, I discovered that incorporating fresh orange juice and zest made all the difference in achieving that vibrant taste. The moisture of the cake is something I take pride in, and I always make sure to use high-quality vanilla extract along with the zest.

Throughout my baking journey, I've learned that patience is key when it comes to achieving the perfect texture. Allowing the cake to cool completely before frosting is crucial. I often use cream cheese frosting for pairing, as it complements the citrusy flavors beautifully. My friends and family can't get enough of this cake, and I love sharing it!

Why You Will Love This Cake
Bright, refreshing orange flavor with a hint of vanilla
Incredibly moist texture that stays fresh for days
Perfect for celebrations or a cozy tea time

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial when making this Moist Orange Vanilla Cake. The bright, zesty flavor of freshly squeezed orange juice dramatically elevates the cake's taste, imparting a depth that bottled juice simply cannot match. I recommend choosing ripe, organic oranges for the best flavor profile. The zest adds an aromatic, fragrant element that permeates the cake, enhancing not just flavor but also overall enjoyment.

Another critical ingredient is butter. Using unsalted, high-quality butter will give the cake a richer flavor and contributes to the lush, moist texture. Make sure it’s softened properly; if it’s too cold, it won’t cream well with the sugar, which can lead to a dense cake. I usually leave my butter out at room temperature for about an hour before starting the recipe, which yields the best results.

Perfecting the Mixing Method

The creaming method is vital to achieving the light and fluffy texture of this cake. When you cream the butter and sugar together, aim for a pale and fluffy consistency, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer. This process incorporates air into the mixture, contributing to the cake's rise during baking. Don't rush this step; it’s where the cake starts to come alive.

When adding the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, it's essential to alternate with the orange juice. This method helps maintain the batter's integrity and prevents gluten from developing too much, which can result in a tough cake. Mix until combined, but be careful not to overmix, as this will affect the cake’s delightful tenderness. A few remaining streaks of flour are perfectly fine!

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed
Zest of 2 oranges
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Frosting Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Flavorings

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the orange zest and vanilla extract.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Juice

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the orange juice, until fully combined.

Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool the Cakes

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Prepare the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until creamy. Stir in the orange zest and vanilla extract.

Frost the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread the frosting between the layers and over the top and sides of the cake.

Serve and Enjoy

Slice and serve your delicious Moist Orange Vanilla Cake to friends and family!

Pro Tips

For a heightened orange flavor, try adding an orange glaze on top of the frosting. Also, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture.

Storing Your Cake

To keep your Moist Orange Vanilla Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it will last about a week. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving, as this enhances the flavor and texture immensely.

You can also freeze portions of this cake for future enjoyment. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to three months in the freezer! When you’re ready to enjoy, just let the slices thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Variations to Try

While this cake is delightful as is, don't hesitate to experiment with flavors! For a twist, you could substitute lemon juice and lemon zest for a tangy variation. Alternatively, a splash of coconut milk in place of some of the orange juice adds a tropical flair that pairs beautifully with the vanilla flavor.

Another idea is to incorporate chocolate—adding mini chocolate chips to the batter can create a decadent combination of flavors. Consider making a layered cake by adding a layer of your favorite fruit preserves between the cake layers for added moisture and flavor!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different citrus juice?

Yes, you can substitute lemon or lime juice for a different flavor profile!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the un-frosted cake layers for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.