Amazingly Easy Whole Orange Cake

This orange cake smells like someone bottled sunshine and baked it into a tender, springy slice. Light enough for teatime, satisfying enough for dessert, it pairs a bright citrus punch, from a whole orange nestled in the center with a soft crumb that practically begs for a second piece.

This recipe is perfect for busy bakers, beginner-friendly kitchen adventures, or anyone who wants a quick loaf for brunch. You can also serve it warm with a dusting of cocoa or a drizzle of honey.

What is an Amazing Easy Orange Cake?

This recipe is a charming orange cake built around a single orange placed in the middle of the pan before baking. It is a citrus-forward, slightly rustic cake where the orange gives aroma, moisture and a neat visual focal point when you slice into it.

Cakes made with whole citrus, or sliced fruit tucked into batter have been popular in various home-bakery traditions, as they’re forgiving, dramatic, and delightfully simple. The little addition of cocoa in the dry mix gives a whisper of depth that plays beautifully with the bright orange notes.

Pro Tips for the Best Amazing Easy Orange Cake

• Use room-temperature eggs, they beat better and give a lighter crumb.
• Beat the whites to soft–stiff peaks but don’t overwhip, you want volume that still folds smoothly.
• Once you combine yolks and whites, treat the batter like a soufflé, gentle folding preserves the air and keeps the cake fluffy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What pan should I use?

A 20–23 cm (8–9 inch) round or bundt pan works well. Grease it and line the bottom with parchment for easy removal.

Can I replace the cocoa or leave it out?

Yes, the 2 tbsp cocoa is optional, as it adds a subtle depth. Omit it for a pure orange cake or keep it to make a gentle chocolate-orange hint.

My cake is dense, what went wrong?

Possible reasons include over-folding the batter, not fully beating whites, or adding flour too quickly. Fold gently and add the dry mix in parts.

How to Store This Cake

Store cooled slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, keep in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving for best flavour.

How to Make Amazing Easy Whole Orange Cake

Step 1

Step 1

Beat egg whites and salt until soft–stiff peaks form.

Beat egg whites and salt until soft–stiff peaks form.

Step 2

Step 2

Then, whisk egg yolks with the sugar until pale and slightly thickened. Mix the yolk mixture into the beaten whites in 2–3 additions.

Then, whisk egg yolks with the sugar until pale and slightly thickened. Mix the yolk mixture into the beaten whites in 2–3 additions.

Step 3

Step 3

Mix in the milk, butter, flour, baking powder and cocoa powder.

Mix in the milk, butter, flour, baking powder and cocoa powder.

Step 4

Step 4

Place a halved orange in the middle of the pan standing upright and pour in the batter.

Place a halved orange in the middle of the pan standing upright and pour in the batter.

Step 5

Step 5

Place chocolate in the middle of the orange and garnish the dough.

Place chocolate in the middle of the orange and garnish the dough.

Step 6

Step 6

Bake at 180 °C / 350 °F for about 40 minutes.

Bake at 180 °C / 350 °F for about 40 minutes.