BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

Light and fluffy, the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake brings a burst of citrus flavor to any occasion. This delightful dessert is perfect for parties, picnics, or simply enjoying at home with a cup of tea. The combination of fresh orange zest and a sweet glaze makes it irresistibly delicious. Plus, its simple preparation ensures that anyone can whip it up with ease.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this cake in the oven before you know it.
• Refreshing Flavor: The zesty orange adds a bright and cheerful taste that’s sure to lift your spirits.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for gatherings, this cake is easy to slice into portions for sharing.
• Moist Texture: The addition of milk and fresh juice ensures every bite is soft and tender.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add extra toppings like nuts or chocolate chips for a personal touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking tin (8×10 inch)
• Baking paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl helps in combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Whisk: Essential for achieving a light and fluffy texture by aerating the batter.
• Baking tin: An appropriate size ensures even baking and proper rise for your traybake.

Ingredients

To create the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cake

• 250 g Softened butter
• 250 g Caster sugar
• 1 Teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 4 Medium Eggs
• 250 g Self-raising flour
• 3 Tablespoons Milk
• Zest of 1 Orange

For the Glaze

• 200 g Icing sugar
• 2 Tablespoons Freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1-2 Tablespoons Orange zest

How to Make BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180℃ (160℃ for fan ovens). Line an 8×10-inch tin with baking paper.

Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, whisk together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Whisk in the eggs one at a time, followed by adding self-raising flour and milk gradually. Continue mixing until you achieve a smooth cake batter. Then fold in the orange zest gently.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your lined tin, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool the Cake

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. Carefully flip it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy making this delightful treat that exemplifies what makes a great dessert! The BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering!

How to Serve BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

Serving your BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake can elevate any occasion. This delightful dessert pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its zesty flavor and moist texture.

With Fresh Fruits

• Citrus Medley: Arrange slices of oranges, grapefruits, and mandarins for a refreshing contrast.
• Berries: Serve with strawberries or blueberries to add a sweet and tart balance.

With Creamy Toppings

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the cake’s sweetness perfectly.
• Greek Yogurt: For a healthier option, serve with a spoonful of Greek yogurt drizzled with honey.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mini Pastries: Combine slices of the traybake with mini eclairs or tarts for an elegant dessert display.
• Cheese Selection: Pair it with a mild cheese like mascarpone for a unique flavor experience.

How to Perfect BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

Perfecting your BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake ensures it turns out fluffy and delicious every time. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to reach room temperature for better mixing.
• Sift Flour: Sifting the flour helps incorporate air, resulting in a lighter cake texture.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for even cooking.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined to prevent a dense cake.
• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is baked properly.

Best Side Dishes for BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

Pairing your BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake with complementary side dishes enhances your dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness contrasts beautifully with the orange zest.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and brightness alongside the cake.
3. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce provides an indulgent touch that pairs well with citrus flavors.
4. Honey Yogurt Dip: A sweet yogurt dip enhances the cake’s flavors while adding moisture.
5. Meringue Cookies: Light and airy meringues make for a delightful crunchy counterpart.
6. Coconut Whipped Cream: This dairy-free option adds tropical flair and richness without overpowering the orange flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is easy, but there are common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the room temperature butter: Using cold butter can lead to a dense cake. Always ensure your butter is softened for the best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make your cake tough. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin your cake. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise amounts.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different. Test your oven’s accuracy with an oven thermometer to bake at the right temperature.
• Cutting the cake too soon: Cutting into a warm cake can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container; they can last up to 2-3 months.

Reheating BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 160℃ (320℉) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Warm individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake:

Can I use other citrus fruits?

You can easily substitute oranges with lemons or limes for a different flavor profile while maintaining the same recipe.

How do I make my cake more moist?

Adding an extra tablespoon of milk or using buttermilk instead of regular milk can enhance moisture.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Yes! Feel free to fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to decorate this cake?

A simple glaze made from icing sugar and orange juice, topped with additional orange zest, adds both beauty and flavor.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various flavors or toppings. Try this delightful recipe today, and enjoy its lightness and refreshing citrus taste!