Orange And Lemon Cake

Prep: 20 min Cook: 50 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A zesty citrus cake featuring bright orange and lemon flavors, perfect for celebrations or afternoon tea, appealing to those who enjoy fresh, tangy desserts.

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Grated zest of 1 orange
  • Juice of 1 orange
  • Grated zest of 1 lemon
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 2 sticks margarine, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar

Instructions

  1. Sift all dry ingredients except powdered sugar.
  2. Add grated zest of orange and lemon to the dry mixture.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine orange juice, lemon juice, and milk, then set aside to sour.
  4. Beat softened margarine and sugar at high speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
  5. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  6. Alternately add one-third of the flour mixture and one-third of the milk mixture, beating well after each addition.
  7. Pour batter into a greased pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 to 55 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Cool the cake for 10 minutes before removing from the pan.
  9. Optional: glaze the cake or sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a fluffier texture, ensure that the margarine is softened but not melted. You can substitute the margarine with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer a vegan option, use plant-based margarine and a flax egg in place of the regular eggs. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the citrus flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This delightful Orange and Lemon Cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. It also makes a lovely accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, consider glazing the cake with a simple citrus glaze or dusting it with powdered sugar before serving.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy it cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Orange And Lemon Cake contains roughly 89 calories, with 1g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value) and calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 849mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).

89 kcal 4% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.4g 3% DV
Total Fat 2.1g 3% DV
Carbs 17g 6% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 7.4g 15% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 849.5mg 37% DV
Potassium 178mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 1.2mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 28.3mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 3.2mg 4% DV
Vitamin D 0.3mcg 1% DV
Calcium 162.7mg 13% DV
Iron 2.6mg 15% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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 citrus fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute lime or grapefruit juice and zest for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust the sugar accordingly if using more tart fruits.

What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?

A sinking cake often indicates that it was underbaked or the batter was overmixed. Be sure to check the cake for doneness with a toothpick before the baking time is up. If it comes out clean, it’s ready to be removed from the oven.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, this cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.

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).

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