Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Orange Velvet Pound Cake is a delightful treat that combines the richness of a pound cake with the bright, refreshing flavor of oranges. This cake is perfect for celebrations, afternoon tea, or simply enjoying as a sweet snack. With its unique two-tone glaze, it not only tastes divine but also looks stunning on any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of fresh orange juice and zest gives this cake a vibrant citrus flavor that is hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and commonly found ingredients, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just a weekend treat, this Orange Velvet Pound Cake fits perfectly into any celebration.
• Gorgeous Presentation: The two-tone glaze adds an elegant touch, making it a showstopper at gatherings.
• Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to the buttermilk and butter, each slice melts in your mouth.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bundt pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt pan: Provides the iconic shape and ensures even baking due to its design.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for properly combining ingredients without creating a mess.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into your batter, resulting in a lighter cake texture.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls and folding ingredients without deflating 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 ½ 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 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 the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325F (163C). Grease and flour a bundt pan very well or use baking spray with flour to ensure easy release after baking.

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:
6. Unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
7. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
8. Stir in:
9. Orange zest,
10. Fresh orange juice,
11. Vanilla extract,
12. Orange extract (if using).
13. Alternate adding the dry mixture and buttermilk, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; do not overbeat.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cooling in the pan for about 15 minutes before inverting it 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:
In another bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and fresh orange juice (and optional coloring/flavor) until glossy. Adjust consistency by adding more juice or sugar as needed.

Step 5: Decorate Your Cake

Start by drizzling the white glaze over your cooled cake first. Follow with the orange glaze for that beautiful two-tone layered effect as seen in photos. Let it set for at least 15 minutes before slicing into this delicious Orange Velvet Pound Cake!

How to Serve Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Orange Velvet Pound Cake is a delightful dessert that pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, these serving suggestions will enhance your cake experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve slices of the cake alongside fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of color and flavor.

A Scoop of Sorbet

• Pair each slice with a scoop of citrus sorbet to complement the orange flavor and add a refreshing touch.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Top the cake with lightly sweetened whipped cream for an airy texture that balances the dense pound cake.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create delicious ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of vanilla or orange ice cream between two slices of cake.

Citrus Salad

• Serve with a light citrus salad made from oranges, grapefruits, and a drizzle of honey to bring out the flavors in the cake.

Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy slices of Orange Velvet Pound Cake with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

How to Perfect Orange Velvet Pound Cake

For an exceptional baking experience, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your Orange Velvet Pound Cake to perfection.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs, butter, and buttermilk are at room temperature for better emulsification and texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the batter only until combined to maintain a tender crumb. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Sift flour twice: Sifting removes lumps and aerates the flour, resulting in a lighter cake.
• Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
• Cool before glazing: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding glazes; this prevents them from melting away.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Velvet Pound Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Orange Velvet Pound Cake can enhance its flavor and make for an unforgettable dessert experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Citrus Compote: A mix of cooked citrus fruits adds sweetness and tanginess that complements the orange flavor in the cake.
2. Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a light contrast to the richness of the pound cake.
3. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over each slice for an indulgent combination that chocolate lovers will adore.
4. Almond Biscotti: These crunchy cookies offer a delightful crunch that pairs well with the soft texture of the pound cake.
5. Lemon Curd: A tart lemon curd enhances the sweetness of the cake while adding complexity to each bite.
6. Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with coconut whipped cream for tropical flair that matches the orange zest.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking an Orange Velvet Pound Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Incorrect Measurements: Using inaccurate measurements for flour or sugar can lead to a dense cake. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Not Room Temperature Ingredients: Starting with cold eggs and butter can hinder the creaming process. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation.
• Overmixing Batter: Overmixing can create a tough texture in your cake. Mix until just combined to maintain that light, velvety crumb.
• Skipping the Zest: Leaving out orange zest reduces the citrus flavor. Make sure to include this key ingredient to enhance the cake’s taste.
• Ignoring Oven Calibration: Baking times can vary with different ovens. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate temperatures and adjust baking time accordingly.
• Not Cooling Properly: Removing the cake from the pan too soon can lead to breakage. Allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before inverting onto a rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Orange Velvet Pound Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without loss of quality.

Reheating Orange Velvet Pound Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covered, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding Orange Velvet Pound Cake that you might find helpful.

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

Orange Velvet Pound Cake incorporates orange zest and juice, giving it a vibrant citrus flavor that sets it apart from traditional recipes.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but keep in mind that it may affect the texture, making it denser than intended.

How do I know when my Orange Velvet Pound Cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Adding walnuts or chocolate chips can give your Orange Velvet Pound Cake an exciting twist while enhancing its texture and flavor.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Velvet Pound Cake is not only visually appealing but also bursting with citrus flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different glazes or mix-ins like nuts and chocolate. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy it is to make and enjoy!