Orange Slice Cake And Icing
A moist, flavorful orange slice cake packed with chopped dates, coconut, nuts, and candied orange slices, perfect for special occasions or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream margarine and sugar; add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add 1 cup of buttermilk and beat well.
- Mix the remaining 1/2 cup of buttermilk with soda.
- Add the soda mixture to the batter and mix thoroughly.
- Combine dry ingredients and add them to the batter, mixing well.
- Toss chopped orange slice candy, dates, and nuts with 1/2 cup of flour.
- Fold the flour-coated candied orange slices, dates, and nuts into the batter.
- Line a tube pan with well-greased brown paper.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake at 275°F (135°C) for 2 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter in place of margarine. If you don't have buttermilk, you can create a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar to regular milk. Ensure your dates are pitted and chopped evenly for consistent texture. Mixing the chopped orange slice candy and nuts with flour before adding helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own but can be enhanced with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice. Serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Consider making it for gatherings, as it complements potluck desserts like Potluck Bread Pudding.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, wrap the Orange Slice Cake in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Slice Cake And Icing contains roughly 2844 calories, with 40g protein, 356g carbohydrates, and 117g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (89% of the Daily Value), iron (84% of the Daily Value), and protein (79% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2219mg per serving (96% 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 fresh oranges instead of orange slice candy?
While fresh oranges can add a nice citrus flavor, they won't provide the same sweetness and chewy texture as orange slice candy. If you prefer a fresher taste, consider using candied orange peel or a mixture of orange zest and juice in the batter for flavor.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add 1 teaspoon to help with texture. Keep in mind that gluten-free cakes may have a slightly different texture, so adjust baking time as needed.
How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your cake is ready. Since this cake bakes at a low temperature, it may take longer than standard recipes, so patience is key.
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).