Dottie'S Orange Cake
Dottie's Orange Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the bright citrus notes of fresh orange juice and zest with the sweetness of brown sugar and raisins. It’s a comforting cake perfect for gatherings or a special treat at home, appealing to both fruit lovers and those who enjoy a moist, rich cake.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together brown sugar and orange juice, set aside.
- Chop orange rind, raisins, and nuts in a chopper or processor and set aside.
- Cream together sugar, baking soda, and shortening.
- Add eggs to creamed mixture, one at a time, and mix well.
- Sift flour and baking powder, then add alternately to creamed mixture with 1 cup milk. Add the raisin-nut mixture.
- Bake at 350° for 40 minutes.
- Remove from pan immediately and pour juice/brown sugar mix slowly over the top.
- Cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense orange flavor, consider using fresh orange zest along with the juice. If you're out of brown sugar, coconut sugar or white sugar can be substituted, although the flavor will differ slightly. If you prefer a lighter cake, you can replace half of the shortening with applesauce, which works well in many American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This orange cake is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For a delightful brunch option, serve it alongside English Muffins or a fresh fruit salad to complement the citrus flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warmed through, ensuring it remains moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dottie'S Orange Cake contains roughly 757 calories, with 8g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (36% of the Daily Value) and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 690mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits instead of orange?
Yes, you can experiment with other citrus fruits like lemon or lime for a different flavor profile. However, adjust the sugar levels according to the tartness of the fruit you choose, as some may require more or less sugar to achieve the desired sweetness.
What can I do if my cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or too much flour. Ensure you measure your flour accurately, ideally by weight. Additionally, check that your baking powder and soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can affect the cake's rise and texture.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made ahead and stored. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Just make sure to keep it covered to maintain moisture. If making long in advance, consider freezing it and then thawing in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).