Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is a vibrant, moist cake that brings a burst of citrus flavor to your dessert table. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday celebration, or simply a sweet treat for your afternoon tea. The fresh zest and juice from oranges not only provide a zesty punch but also keep the cake incredibly moist. The drizzle, made from a simple mixture of orange juice and sugar, adds a glossy finish and an extra layer of sweetness that beautifully complements the cake. Easy to prepare and bake in a single tray, this cake requires minimal fuss and makes for an impressive dessert that looks as good as it tastes. The combination of the fluffy cake with the tangy drizzle creates a harmonious balance that is sure to please both citrus lovers and those who enjoy a classic sweet treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake is a must-try for several reasons. First and foremost, its flavor profile is simply irresistible. The bright citrus notes from the oranges infuse every bite, making it a refreshing dessert option. Secondly, the ease of preparation cannot be overstated. With just a few simple steps, you can whip this cake up in no time. There’s no need for intricate layering or complicated techniques; everything comes together smoothly in one tray. Thirdly, the visual appeal of this cake is stunning. The vibrant orange color from the zest and the glossy drizzle create an eye-catching centerpiece on any dessert table. Lastly, this cake is incredibly versatile. It can be served as a simple afternoon snack or dressed up for a special occasion, making it suitable for any event. Enjoy it plain, or pair it with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a delightful contrast.

Ingredients:

To create the perfect Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

200g unsalted butter: Softened at room temperature for easy mixing and a rich flavor.
200g caster sugar: This fine sugar dissolves easily, ensuring a light and fluffy cake.

4 large eggs: Eggs are essential for binding the ingredients together and providing moisture.
200g self-raising flour: This flour contains a leavening agent, ensuring your cake rises beautifully.
2 teaspoons baking powder: For an extra lift, helping the cake achieve a light texture.

Finely grated zest of 2 large oranges: The zest adds a concentrated orange flavor and aroma.
Juice of 2 large oranges: Freshly squeezed juice is crucial for the cake’s moisture and flavor.
100g icing sugar: To create the drizzle that adds sweetness and shine.

Extra orange juice (for drizzle): A few tablespoons to mix with the icing sugar for the drizzle.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture in the Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake. The unsalted butter gives a rich base, while the caster sugar ensures sweetness without being grainy. The combination of self-raising flour and baking powder works together to achieve a fluffy cake that rises beautifully. The use of fresh oranges for both zest and juice is essential; it enhances the cake’s flavor profile and ensures freshness in every bite. Finally, the icing sugar brings everything together with a sweet, glossy finish that elevates the overall presentation.

How To Make Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake?

Follow these detailed steps to create your Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake:

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Prepare the Baking Tray: Grease a rectangular baking tray (approximately 20x30cm) with butter or line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent the cake from sticking and makes for easier removal.

Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, which is key for a light cake.
Add the Eggs: Crack the eggs into the bowl one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure the eggs are fully incorporated before adding the next one.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the self-raising flour and baking powder. This helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout the flour.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
Add Orange Zest and Juice: Fold in the grated orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice until evenly distributed. This will add moisture and flavor to your cake.
Pour into the Tray: Transfer the batter into the prepared baking tray and smooth the top with a spatula, ensuring an even layer.

Bake the Cake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Prepare the Drizzle: While the cake is baking, prepare the drizzle by mixing the icing sugar with a few tablespoons of orange juice in a small bowl. Adjust the consistency to your liking; it should be pourable yet thick enough to hold its shape.
Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the tray for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Drizzle the Icing: Once the cake is completely cool, pour the orange drizzle over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides for a beautiful finish.
Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into squares or rectangles and serve. Enjoy it fresh, or store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Tips For Variations:

There are countless ways to customize your Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake to suit your taste preferences or to experiment with new flavors. Here are some suggestions to enhance this recipe:

Additional Citrus: Consider adding zest or juice from other citrus fruits like lemons or limes for a more complex flavor profile. You could create a mixed citrus drizzle by combining juices from different fruits.
Herbal Infusions: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can bring an aromatic twist. Infuse the butter with herbs before creaming it with sugar or incorporate finely chopped herbs into the batter for a unique flavor.
Nuts and Seeds: For added texture and crunch, fold in some chopped nuts such as walnuts or almonds. Alternatively, sprinkle some poppy seeds into the batter for a delightful visual and textural contrast.

Chocolate Addition: If you’re a chocolate lover, consider adding chocolate chips into the batter or drizzling melted chocolate over the top in addition to the orange drizzle. The combination of chocolate and orange is a classic pairing that never disappoints.
Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with a suitable egg alternative such as flaxseed meal mixed with water or a commercial egg replacer. Use a dairy-free butter alternative to maintain the original flavor while accommodating different dietary needs.
Layered Cake: If you’re feeling adventurous, bake two separate layers of the cake and sandwich them together with a layer of orange curd or whipped cream. This will elevate your traybake into a stunning layered cake.

Different Frostings: Instead of a simple drizzle, top the cake with a cream cheese frosting or a buttercream infused with orange flavor. This adds an extra layer of richness and sweetness.

Serving Suggestions:

Serving your Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake can be a creative endeavor. Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and enhance the overall experience:

Simple Slices: Serve the cake sliced into squares on a decorative platter. Dust with additional icing sugar for a touch of elegance.
With Ice Cream: Pair a slice of cake with a scoop of vanilla or citrus-flavored ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the moist cake and adds a delightful chill.
Fresh Fruit Garnish: Decorate each slice with fresh orange segments or berries. This not only adds a pop of color but also provides a fresh, juicy contrast to the cake.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly whipped cream on top of each slice can add a luscious and creamy element that complements the citrus flavor.
Tea Pairing: Serve the cake with a pot of freshly brewed tea or coffee. A floral or citrus-infused tea can enhance the overall flavor experience.
Picnic Treat: Pack slices of cake into a picnic basket for an outdoor gathering. Wrap them in parchment paper for easy handling and a rustic touch.

Birthday Celebration: For a special occasion, consider decorating the top of the cake with edible flowers or a simple birthday message made from icing. This adds a personal touch to your celebration.

FAQ:

Can I use bottled orange juice instead of fresh?

Using fresh orange juice is recommended for the best flavor. However, if you must use bottled juice, ensure it is 100% pure without added sugars or preservatives.

How should I store the cake?

Store the Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a very humid environment, refrigeration may be necessary.

Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months.

What can I do if my cake is too dense?

If your cake turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing or not properly measuring your ingredients. Ensure that you mix until just combined and measure ingredients accurately for the best results.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The edges should also slightly pull away from the sides of the tray.

Orange Drizzle Traybake Cake

A vibrant, moist cake bursting with citrus flavor, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
Baking Tray

Ingredients

200 g unsalted butter Softened at room temperature for easy mixing and a rich flavor.

200 g caster sugar This fine sugar dissolves easily, ensuring a light and fluffy cake.
4 large eggs Essential for binding the ingredients together and providing moisture.
200 g self-raising flour Contains a leavening agent, ensuring your cake rises beautifully.

2 teaspoons baking powder For an extra lift, helping the cake achieve a light texture.
2 large oranges Finely grated zest adds a concentrated orange flavor and aroma.
2 large oranges Juice is crucial for the cake's moisture and flavor.

100 g icing sugar To create the drizzle that adds sweetness and shine.
3 tablespoons extra orange juice For drizzle, mix with icing sugar.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

Grease a rectangular baking tray (approximately 20x30cm) with butter or line it with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy.
Crack the eggs into the bowl one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the self-raising flour and baking powder.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
Fold in the grated orange zest and freshly squeezed orange juice until evenly distributed.

Transfer the batter into the prepared baking tray and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, prepare the drizzle by mixing the icing sugar with a few tablespoons of orange juice.

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the tray for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cool, pour the orange drizzle over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.
Slice the cake into squares or rectangles and serve.