Eva St. Clair'S Orange Cake Squares
Bright and zesty, Eva St. Clair's Orange Cake Squares feature a moist sponge infused with orange extract and grated orange rind, topped with a tangy orange glaze. Perfect for teatime or special gatherings, this citrusy treat appeals to lovers of vibrant flavors and classic baked goods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening; gradually add sugar, mixing well.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Combine milk, orange extract, and grated orange rind; set aside.
- Combine flour, baking powder, and salt; add to creamed mixture alternately with milk mixture, beginning and ending with flour mixture.
- Beat for 3 minutes on medium speed of an electric mixer.
- Pour batter into a greased and floured 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Pour orange glaze over warm cake, spreading evenly.
- Cut into squares to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the shortening is at room temperature before creaming it with the sugar. You can substitute vegetable oil for shortening if preferred. Additionally, if you don’t have orange extract, fresh orange juice can be used, but reduce the milk slightly. For a twist, try adding some zest from a lemon for a unique flavor profile that complements the orange.
Serving Suggestions
These orange cake squares are perfect for a brunch or as a light dessert. Serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat. They also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. For an extra twist, serve alongside a portion of Lemon Rice Pudding for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover orange cake squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they'll last for about a week. To reheat, warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until slightly warm, to enjoy the glaze's stickiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eva St. Clair'S Orange Cake Squares contains roughly 147 calories, with 0g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 560mg per serving (24% 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 make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for proper binding. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still yield delicious results.
What can I use instead of shortening?
If you don't have shortening, you can easily substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or a vegetable oil. Keep in mind that using butter will give a richer flavor, while oil may yield a slightly denser cake.
Can I freeze these orange cake squares?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the squares tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
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).