Orange Cake-Candy Slice
A moist and flavorful orange candy slice cake combining the tang of oranges and sweetness of dates and coconut, perfect for special occasions or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Alternate adding flour and buttermilk to the mixture, beginning and ending with flour.
- Roll dates, orange slices, candy, and pecans in 1/2 cup flour separately.
- Fold the floured nuts, candy, dates, and coconut into the batter.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured tube pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) for 2 1/2 hours.
- While hot, mix 1 cup orange juice with 2 cups confectioners' sugar and pour over the cake.
- Let the cake set in the pan overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your butter is at room temperature before creaming with sugar. If you can't find buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice. To enhance flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract. If you prefer a different fruit, try using dried cranberries instead of dates.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it by serving 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 festive touch, consider garnishing with additional orange zest or toasted coconut. This cake is also an excellent addition to potlucks or dessert tables alongside Bess' Butterscotch Pies.
Storage & Reheating
Once completely cooled, store the Orange Cake-Candy Slice in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, let frozen slices thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Cake-Candy Slice contains roughly 836 calories, with 6g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. It also contributes 9g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 types of candy in this recipe?
Yes, feel free to substitute the orange slices with your favorite candy such as gummy bears or chocolate-covered nuts. Just make sure to adjust the quantity based on the sweetness of the candy you choose to maintain balance in the cake.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached. Keep in mind that the baking time may vary depending on your oven, so check around the 2-hour mark and adjust accordingly.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it as directed. Just remember to pour the orange juice and sugar mixture over it before serving for the best flavor.
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).