BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

The BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor to any occasion. This cake is wonderfully light and fluffy, perfect for sharing at parties, family gatherings, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea. The addition of fresh orange zest and a sweet drizzle adds a unique touch that makes this dessert stand out. Whether you’re a baking novice or an experienced baker, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This traybake comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy days.
• Versatile Serving Options: Ideal for birthdays, picnics, or afternoon tea; it suits various occasions.
• Delicious Citrus Flavor: The fresh orange zest and juice provide a refreshing taste that everyone will adore.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to the careful balance of ingredients, this cake remains moist and tender with every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking paper
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking paper: Prevents the cake from sticking to the tin, ensuring easy removal after baking.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy mixing of ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining ingredients thoroughly to achieve a light and fluffy batter.

Ingredients

Light and fluffy orange traybake with glace icing and fresh orange zest on top.

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.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

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

Step 3: Add Eggs and Dry Ingredients

Whisk in the eggs one at a time. Then gradually add the self-raising flour and milk, mixing until you achieve a smooth cake batter. Finally, stir in the orange zest.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Transfer 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 Down

Let the cake cool in the tin for around 10 minutes before flipping it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Now you have created an amazing BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake that is ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

Serving the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is as delightful as baking it. This cake’s vibrant orange flavor and fluffy texture make it a perfect treat for various occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

Classic Slice

• Serve a generous slice of the cake on its own, allowing the moist texture and zesty flavor to shine through.

Tea Time Treat

• Pair with a cup of herbal or black tea for a classic afternoon snack that complements the citrus notes beautifully.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange slices alongside fresh fruits like berries or citrus segments to create an appealing dessert platter.

Ice Cream Delight

• Top a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperatures and textures.

Festive Garnish

• Decorate with additional orange zest or edible flowers for special occasions, adding both color and elegance.

Mini Portions

• Cut into smaller squares for bite-sized treats, perfect for parties or gatherings where guests can enjoy more than one sweet option.

How to Perfect BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

Achieving the perfect BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bake turns out flawless.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bring butter and eggs to room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter.

• Sift dry ingredients: Sifting flour helps incorporate air and prevents lumps, resulting in a light cake texture.

• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a fluffy one.

• Check doneness carefully: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done baking.

• Cool completely before icing: Allow the cake to cool fully before applying icing to prevent it from melting away.

• Add more zest: Enhance the orange flavor by incorporating extra zest into both the batter and icing if desired.

Best Side Dishes for BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

Pairing side dishes with the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful cake beautifully.

1. Whipped Cream
   Light and airy, whipped cream adds a creamy texture that balances the zesty sweetness of the cake.

2. Fresh Berries
   A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provides freshness and tartness, enhancing each bite of cake.

3. Citrus Salad
   A refreshing salad made with mixed citrus fruits offers a bright contrast to the sweet drizzle cake.

4. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy side that pairs well with the orange flavors in the traybake.

5. Chocolate Sauce
   A drizzle of rich chocolate sauce can offer an indulgent twist when served alongside your orange cake slices.

6. Caramel Sauce
   Sweet caramel sauce brings out additional depth in flavor, making each bite even more enticing.

7. Ice Cream Sundae Toppings
   Provide toppings like nuts, sprinkles, or chocolate chips for guests who want to create their own sundae experience alongside their slice of cake.

8. Coffee or Herbal Tea Selection
   A variety of coffee or tea options enhances the overall experience, providing warm beverages that pair perfectly with your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake, it’s easy to overlook a few important details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using cold ingredients: It’s essential to ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and a light texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Always use a kitchen scale for precise measurements. Inaccurate amounts can lead to inconsistencies in taste and texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cake dense. Mix just until combined for a fluffy result.
• Skipping the zest: Orange zest adds crucial flavor to your cake. Don’t skip it; it enhances the overall taste significantly.
• Ignoring the cooling time: Letting your cake cool properly before icing is vital. It prevents the icing from melting and maintains a nice finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It can last up to 5 days while retaining its freshness.

Freezing BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; just make sure to label them with the date.

Reheating BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 160°C (320°F) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds per slice, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid to warm evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other citrus fruits instead of orange?

Yes! You can easily substitute lemon or lime zest and juice for a different flavor profile.

How can I customize my BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake?

Consider adding poppy seeds or walnuts for extra texture. You could also mix in dried fruits like cranberries for added sweetness.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of self-raising flour for a delicious alternative.

What’s the best way to serve this cake?

The BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee. It also makes an excellent dessert at any gathering.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is not only light and fluffy but also bursting with citrus flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your preferences, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy every tasty bite!