Creamy Orange Cake
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep and Preheat 🌡️
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray, then line the bottom with parchment paper for easy slicing.
Step 2: Mix the Orange Cake Batter 🥣
- Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Creaming: In a large bowl (or stand mixer), beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. Mix in the orange zest and vanilla extract.
- Combine: Alternately add the dry flour mixture, orange juice, and milk to the butter mixture, folding gently with a spatula just until a smooth, fragrant orange batter forms. Do not overmix!
Step 3: Bake the Sponge 🍰
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top evenly.
- Bake for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are slightly golden.
- Place the pan on a wire rack and let the cake cool completely before frosting.
Step 4: Whip Up the Cream Frosting ☁️
- In a clean mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and lump-free.
- Gradually sift in the powdered sugar one cup at a time while mixing on low speed.
- Add the vanilla extract and a splash of heavy cream. Whisk on high for 1–2 minutes until the frosting is silky, smooth, and easily spreadable.
