Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

Fresh orange zest and sweet vanilla come together in this perfectly moist traybake cake. A generous drizzle of citrus icing creates an irresistible treat that brings sunshine to any occasion. The delicate crumb carries the bright essence of fresh oranges in every bite, while the glaze adds just the right touch of sweetness.

After baking this cake countless times for family gatherings, I've found it's impossible to eat just one piece. The aroma of fresh oranges filling the kitchen takes me back to my grandmother's sunlit breakfast nook, where citrus treats were always welcomed with joy.

Essential Ingredients For Success

• Butter at room temperature ensures your cake develops that coveted light, airy texture
• Fresh oranges provide natural oils in the zest that infuse deep citrus flavor
• Self-raising flour creates the perfect rise without extra leavening agents
• Caster sugar dissolves smoothly into the batter for optimal sweetness distribution
• Farm-fresh eggs bind everything together while adding richness
• Whole milk moistens the crumb for that melt-in-your-mouth quality
• Pure vanilla extract enhances the orange notes beautifully
• Powdered sugar makes the smoothest, most luxurious glaze

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Creating Your Orange Masterpiece

Preparation:

Preheat the oven to gentle warmth at 180°C, welcoming the upcoming baking session. Line your trusty 8x10 baking tin with parchment, ensuring no cake will stick to the sides.

Creaming Magic:

Beat softened butter until it becomes pale and fluffy, incorporating air for maximum lightness. Gradually add caster sugar, watching as the mixture transforms into a cloud-like consistency.

Building Foundations:

Incorporate eggs one at a time, allowing each to fully blend before adding the next. This patience ensures a smooth, unified batter without curdling.

Flour Integration:

Gently fold in self-raising flour in three portions, alternating with splashes of milk. This method preserves the air bubbles created during creaming.

Citrus Enhancement:

Fold in fresh orange zest, distributing it evenly throughout the batter. Transfer this fragrant mixture to your prepared tin, smoothing the top with care.

Baking Brilliance:

Place in the preheated oven, allowing the magic of transformation to occur. Watch as it rises and turns golden over 25-30 minutes.

Glaze Creation:

While the cake cools completely, prepare the crowning glory by combining powdered sugar with fresh orange juice until silky smooth.

Final Flourish:

Pour the glaze over the cooled cake, allowing it to create beautiful drips down the sides. Sprinkle additional zest for both beauty and flavor burst.

Growing up in a family of passionate bakers, I learned the magic of citrus cakes early on. The pure joy of cutting into a perfectly baked orange cake, watching the glaze crack slightly while the knife glides through, brings back memories of Sunday afternoon baking sessions with my mother.

Perfect Serving Ideas

Transform this versatile cake into a complete dessert experience. Layer fresh orange segments alongside a dollop of vanilla-scented whipped cream. For afternoon tea, serve squares with Earl Grey or chamomile tea. During summer months, add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an elevated dessert experience. The subtle orange flavor pairs beautifully with dark chocolate shavings or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce.

Make It Your Own

Switch up the flavor profile by incorporating lemon zest for a different citrus note. Add poppy seeds to create an interesting texture contrast. Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty undertone. For special occasions, fold in dark chocolate chips or candied orange peel before baking. Consider adding a cream cheese frosting instead of the traditional glaze for a richer experience.

Keep It Fresh

Store your orange traybake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, maintaining its moisture and flavor. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in parchment paper and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw slices at room temperature for about an hour. Refresh slightly warm pieces with a quick five-second microwave burst to restore their just-baked texture.

The Science of Citrus Baking

Understanding acid and sugar ratios in citrus cakes helps create the perfect balance. Fresh orange juice in the glaze provides both flavor and the right consistency. The natural oils in orange zest infuse throughout the cake during baking, creating deeper flavor than juice alone could provide.

Testing for Doneness

Watch for visual cues as your cake bakes. The edges should pull slightly away from the pan sides, and the surface should spring back when gently pressed. A skewer inserted into the center should come out clean, possibly with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.

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Professional Chef Tips

• Always zest your orange before juicing for the easiest preparation
• Room temperature ingredients create the smoothest, most consistent batter
• Let the cake cool completely before glazing to prevent the icing from melting

Throughout my years of baking, this orange traybake has become my go-to recipe for gatherings large and small. The bright citrus notes and tender crumb never fail to bring smiles to faces, while its simplicity makes it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Whether served at a casual brunch or elegant afternoon tea, this cake proves that sometimes the simplest recipes yield the most memorable results.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What's self-raising flour?

Flour with added leavening. Can substitute all-purpose plus baking powder.

→ Why let icing harden?

Makes cake easier to slice and store without mess.

→ Can I make this ahead?

Yes, stores in airtight container up to 5 days.

→ Why cool before icing?

Prevents icing from melting and ensures proper setting.

→ Can I freeze this?

Best frozen uniced. Thaw completely before adding icing.