BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

The BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is a delightful treat that combines light and fluffy cake with the zesty brightness of oranges. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party, afternoon tea, or simply a weekend dessert, this traybake stands out with its fresh orange glaze and vibrant flavor. You’ll love how easy it is to make, and your guests will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you’ll have a delicious cake in no time.
• Bright Flavor: The combination of orange zest and juice creates a refreshing taste that elevates this cake.
• Versatile for Occasions: Ideal for parties, picnics, or just a sweet treat at home, this cake fits any gathering.
• Perfectly Moist: Thanks to the balanced ingredients, each slice remains delightfully moist and tender.
• Easily Scalable: Need more or less? This recipe can easily be doubled or halved to suit your needs.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake, make sure you have the right tools at hand. Having these essentials will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Baking tin (8×10 inches)
• Baking paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into the batter for a light texture.
• Baking tin: The correct size ensures even baking and proper shape for the traybake.

Ingredients

To create the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake, gather these simple 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 Drizzle Icing

• 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) and line an 8×10-inch tin with baking paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Gradually whisk in:
1. The eggs one at a time.
2. Self-raising flour and milk, mixing gently until you achieve a smooth batter.
3. Finally, stir in the orange zest for that zesty flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Transfer the batter into your lined baking tin:
1. Spread it out evenly using a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool Your Cake

Once baked:
1. Let the cake cool in the tin for about 10 minutes.
2. Carefully flip it onto a wire rack to cool completely before icing.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake!

How to Serve BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

Serving your BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake can elevate any occasion. This cake is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for various settings. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful treat.

At Afternoon Tea

• Accompanied by Tea or Coffee: Pair slices of the cake with a hot cup of tea or coffee to enhance the citrus flavors.
• With Fresh Berries: Add a side of fresh berries for a pop of color and additional sweetness.

For Celebrations

• Birthday Parties: Cut into fun shapes or decorate with extra orange zest for a festive touch.
• Picnics: Pack slices in an airtight container for an easy dessert option outdoors.

As a Dessert

• With Whipped Cream: Serve a slice topped with whipped cream for added richness.
• Drizzled with Extra Orange Juice: A little orange juice drizzle can intensify the flavor and add moisture.

How to Perfect BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

Ensuring your BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake turns out perfectly is easier with a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions for best results.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring butter and eggs to room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cake from too much flour.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s accurate, as oven temperatures can vary.
• Cool Completely Before Icing: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding icing to prevent it from melting.

Best Side Dishes for BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

Pairing side dishes with your BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement the flavors beautifully.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture contrasts nicely with the soft cake, enhancing its enjoyment.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a healthier side that pairs well with the cake’s flavors.
4. Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of chocolate sauce adds richness that complements the citrus notes.
5. Coconut Whipped Cream: This dairy-free option provides a tropical twist that enhances the orange flavor.
6. Lemon Curd: A tart lemon curd can brighten up each bite, creating an exciting flavor contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake from good to great.

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined; overmixing can make the cake tough. Aim for a smooth batter without lumps, but don’t go beyond that.
• Not preheating the oven: Ensuring your oven is at the right temperature before baking is crucial. This helps the cake rise properly and bake evenly.
• Skipping the zest: The zest adds essential flavor to your cake. Don’t skip it; instead, use fresh oranges for the best taste.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allow the cake to cool in the tin before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from breaking apart.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 160℃ (320℉). Place slices on a baking tray and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and heat slices for about 15-20 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat, add a slice of cake, and cover with a lid. Warm for about 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake.

Can I use other citrus fruits?

Yes! You can substitute oranges with lemons or limes for a different flavor profile while keeping the same method.

How do I make the icing more flavorful?

To enhance the icing, consider adding more freshly squeezed orange juice or even using zest for extra zing!

Can I substitute self-raising flour?

You can use all-purpose flour combined with baking powder. Use 250g of all-purpose flour and add 2 teaspoons of baking powder for similar results.

What’s the best way to serve this cake?

The BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is perfect as a dessert or an afternoon snack, served plain or with whipped cream.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its light texture and vibrant flavor make it ideal for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or dried fruit for added texture!