Are you craving a moist, flavorful cake but short on time? This orange cake recipe from a mix elevates the simple boxed cake to a whole new level of deliciousness. With just a few extra ingredients and simple steps, you can transform a basic mix into a homemade masterpiece that's perfect for any occasion – from a casual weeknight treat to a delightful dessert for a gathering. This recipe is packed with vibrant orange flavor and is surprisingly easy, making it an ideal choice for both beginner bakers and experienced cooks alike. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick and easy, yet incredibly delicious, orange cake!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) white cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 large orange
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions for a Perfect Orange Cake:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This simple step ensures your cake will release easily from the pan and prevents sticking.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the water, oil, eggs, vanilla extract, orange juice, and orange zest. Make sure the zest is finely grated for a smooth texture and even distribution of flavor.
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Mix the Batter: Gradually add the dry cake mix to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, so be gentle!
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Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye on your cake during the last 5 minutes, as ovens can vary.
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Cool and Dust: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar. The powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and enhances the visual appeal of your cake.
Tips for Baking Success:
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Fresh is Best: Using fresh orange juice and zest makes a significant difference in the flavor of the cake. Avoid bottled juice, as it often lacks the vibrant taste of freshly squeezed.
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Don't Overmix: As mentioned before, overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
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Check for Doneness: Use the toothpick test to ensure your cake is fully baked. If the toothpick comes out with batter attached, bake for a few more minutes.
Variations to Explore:
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Glaze it Up: Instead of powdered sugar, drizzle a simple orange glaze over the cooled cake. Combine powdered sugar with a little more orange juice until you reach your desired consistency.
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Add Some Crunch: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) or semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter for added texture and flavor.
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Spice it Up: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg added to the batter creates a warm and comforting twist on this classic orange cake.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Sugar: 30-40g
- Protein: 4-5g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy your delicious and easy orange cake! This recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a homemade dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a simple recipe that delivers big on flavor, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Remember to share your baking creations with us – we'd love to see your beautiful orange cakes!