Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

This Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is light, fluffy, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor. A moist orange sponge is topped with a tangy and sweet orange drizzle, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as an afternoon snack, a dessert, or a bake sale favorite, this simple traybake is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bright and Citrusy – Packed with fresh orange juice and zest for maximum flavor.
• Soft and Moist – A perfectly tender sponge soaked in a sweet orange drizzle.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and no special equipment needed.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal for tea time, parties, or casual gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Stays moist for days and tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• Unsalted butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• All-purpose flour (or self-rising flour)
• Baking powder (omit if using self-rising flour)
• Fresh orange zest
• Fresh orange juice
• Milk (for extra moisture)
• Vanilla extract

For the Orange Drizzle:

• Powdered sugar
• Fresh orange juice

Directions

Make the Cake:

1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar – In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla – Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients – In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
5. Mix the Batter – Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture. Stir in the orange zest, orange juice, and milk until smooth.
6. Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared tray and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Make the Orange Drizzle:

7. Mix the Glaze – In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and fresh orange juice until smooth.
8. Drizzle Over Warm Cake – While the cake is still warm, poke holes in the surface with a fork or skewer and pour the orange drizzle evenly over the top. Let it soak in.

Cool and Serve:

9. Let the Cake Cool – Allow the cake to cool completely in the tray before slicing into squares. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 slices
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Orange Poppy Seed Cake – Add 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds for extra texture.
• Chocolate Orange – Stir in chocolate chips for a delicious orange-chocolate combo.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free flour blend for a GF version.
• Extra Zesty – Add more zest to the batter for a stronger orange flavor.
• Orange Icing – Instead of drizzle, top with a thick orange glaze for a sweeter finish.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration – Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days for extra freshness.
• Freezing – Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use bottled orange juice?

Fresh orange juice is best for flavor, but bottled juice can work in a pinch.

Why is my cake dry?

Overbaking can cause dryness. Check for doneness a few minutes before the baking time ends.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Use a larger baking tray and adjust the baking time accordingly.

How do I get an extra strong orange flavor?

Use more zest and replace some milk with extra orange juice.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free butter and plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

Let the cake cool completely before slicing with a sharp knife.

Can I use self-rising flour?

Yes! If using self-rising flour, omit the baking powder.

Can I make this into cupcakes?

Yes! Bake in cupcake liners for about 18-20 minutes.

What can I serve with this cake?

It pairs well with whipped cream, fresh berries, or vanilla ice cream.

Can I add a crunchy topping?

Sprinkle a little granulated sugar over the drizzle before it sets for a light crunch.

Conclusion

This Easy Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is a delightful citrusy treat that’s soft, moist, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a casual get-together or a special occasion, this cake is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and enjoy a burst of orange goodness in every bite!

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