Orange Coffee Cake
A moist and zesty orange coffee cake featuring bright orange flavors, perfect for breakfast or brunch, appealing to citrus lovers and those craving a light, fluffy treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- On waxed paper, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream the margarine, sugar, and grated orange rind until light and fluffy.
- Add the flour mixture in four additions, alternating with the orange juice, beating only until smooth after each addition.
- Beat the egg whites until they hold stiff peaks, then fold into the batter gently.
- Pour the batter into a 9-inch or 12-inch tube pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes.
- Turn out the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, sift the flour again after measuring. If you need a dairy-free option, substitute margarine with coconut oil or a dairy-free spread. You can also use lemon juice and zest instead of orange for a different flavor twist. Make sure your egg whites are at room temperature for better volume when beaten.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of Orange Coffee Cake dusted with powdered sugar or topped with a light glaze made from orange juice and powdered sugar. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a brunch spread, consider complementing it with a Puffy Cheese Omelet or a fresh fruit salad for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Orange Coffee Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to a month. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature, then warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Coffee Cake contains roughly 457 calories, with 12g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (32% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1300mg per serving (57% 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 whole eggs instead of egg whites?
Using whole eggs will change the texture of the cake, making it denser and richer. If you prefer a lighter cake, stick to just the egg whites as the recipe suggests. However, you can experiment with using one whole egg alongside the egg whites for a slightly different flavor.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this Orange Coffee Cake can be made a day in advance. Just ensure it is completely cooled before storing it. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.
What can I serve with Orange Coffee Cake?
This cake pairs well with a variety of beverages, such as coffee, tea, or even a light sparkling beverage. For a more complete meal, consider serving it alongside a refreshing fruit salad or the Crunchy Sweet Potato Souffle for a vibrant brunch spread.
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).