ORANGE BUTTER CAKE

The other day, I made an insanely delicious cake but completely forgot the recipe—had no clue which magazine I got it from, so I just let it go, stuck with a bunch of pictures and no way to remake it. Yesterday, I flipped through an old magazine and—thankfully—found the recipe again! So here I am, diligently writing up a blog post.

Orange butter cake is a fragrant and buttery dessert that perfectly balances citrusy brightness with rich, tender crumb. Made with fresh orange zest and juice, this cake bursts with natural citrus flavor, while the generous amount of butter ensures a moist and soft texture. The batter is lightly sweetened and sometimes enhanced with a touch of vanilla or almond extract for extra depth. Once baked to a golden perfection, the cake develops a delicate crust while remaining fluffy inside. Some variations include a simple glaze, powdered sugar dusting, or even an orange syrup drizzle to intensify the citrus aroma. Perfect for tea time, breakfast, or as a light dessert, orange butter cake is a delightful treat that brings a refreshing yet comforting taste in every bite.

Did you know:
1. Orange: Orange is a juicy citrus fruit known for its bright, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor. It is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, supporting immune function and skin health. Oranges are commonly eaten fresh, juiced, or used in cooking and baking to add a refreshing citrus note. Their natural sweetness enhances desserts, marinades, and beverages. The fruit’s pulp and juice add moisture and a fruity aroma to cakes, sauces, and dressings, making it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes.

2. Orange zest: Zest of an orange is the outermost, fragrant layer of the orange peel, containing essential oils that add a concentrated citrus aroma and flavor to dishes. It is often used in baking, sauces, marinades, and beverages to provide a bright, tangy essence without the acidity of the juice. Orange zest pairs well with chocolate, vanilla, and spices like cinnamon. It is also a source of antioxidants and adds a natural burst of citrus flavor without adding liquid to recipes.

3. Plain yogurt: Plain yogurt is a creamy, tangy dairy product made by fermenting milk with beneficial bacteria. It is rich in probiotics, protein, calcium, and essential vitamins, supporting digestion and bone health. Its smooth texture makes it a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. Plain yogurt adds moisture and tenderness to baked goods, enhances salad dressings and marinades, and can be used as a base for smoothies or dips. Its mild acidity helps balance flavors in various recipes.

4. Vanilla extract: Vanilla extract is a popular flavoring derived from vanilla beans steeped in alcohol, which extracts their aromatic compounds. It has a warm, sweet, and floral flavor that enhances baked goods, desserts, and beverages. A small amount of vanilla extract deepens flavors, adding richness and complexity to recipes. It pairs well with chocolate, fruit, dairy, and spices, making it a staple in many sweet preparations. High-quality vanilla extract contains antioxidants and contributes to the overall depth of flavor in both simple and elaborate dishes. 

Weightwatchers (Opt for losing weight):
To make this Orange Butter Cake more Weight Watchers-friendly, reduce butter by replacing part of it with unsweetened applesauce for moisture with fewer calories. Use a mix of whole wheat and oat flour to add fiber and keep you fuller longer. Swap sugar for a low-calorie sweetener to cut down on added sugars while maintaining sweetness. Replace full-fat yogurt with non-fat Greek yogurt for protein and creaminess. Use fewer egg yolks to lower cholesterol while keeping structure intact. For caramelized oranges, substitute sugar with stevia and a splash of orange juice to enhance natural sweetness without extra calories. 

 Cake base: