Name: Orange Blossom Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 3 eggs; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup oil; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp orange rind (finely grated); 1/3 cup milk; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup butter; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup orange juice; 1/2 tsp orange blossom water; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; Edible foliage such as mint, parsley, jasmine or orange flowers

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 30 reviews

If you’re looking for a cake that feels like a gentle hug wrapped in citrus sweetness, this Orange Blossom Cake Recipe is a must-try. This delightfully fragrant cake combines the bright, fresh essence of orange rind and juice with a floral hint of orange blossom water, creating a tender, moist texture that melts in your mouth. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a treat to brighten your afternoon, this cake captures the essence of freshness and warmth in every slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A saucepan filled with a thick bright orange liquid sits in the center of a white marbled surface, with a large square of pale yellow butter floating on top near the right side, wrapped in a white cloth knotted at the handle below. To the upper left is a small clear glass pitcher filled with the same orange liquid, while a brass measuring cup filled with white sugar rests just below it. At the top center, a white plate holds four pale yellow pats of butter. To the right of the plate is a clear glass bottle with a yellow label and golden cap showing orange blossoms. Two bright orange tangerines with green leaves attached, one whole and one halved exposing the juicy segmented inside, sit near the bottom and right side of the saucepan. White blossoming green leafy branches frame the image on the left and right edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is the key to this Orange Blossom Cake Recipe’s charm. Each component plays a critical role in building its light texture, subtle sweetness, and that irresistible citrus aroma.

3 eggs: The base for fluffiness and structure, helping the cake rise beautifully.
1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness while whipping with the eggs creates an airy batter.
1/2 cup oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender, preventing it from drying out.
1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Balances flavors and adds warmth beneath the citrus notes.
2 tbsp orange rind: Delivers natural brightness and zing to each bite.
1/3 cup milk: Adds moisture and helps create a smooth batter consistency.
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure without weighing down the cake.
2 tsp baking powder: The leavening agent that gives the cake its light, airy crumb.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors perfectly.
1/4 cup butter: For the glaze, adds richness and depth.
2/3 cup granulated sugar (for glaze): Sweetens and thickens the glaze beautifully.
1/3 cup orange juice: Infuses the glaze with bright citrus flavor.
1/2 tsp orange blossom water: The special ingredient that gives a subtle flowery, exotic fragrance.
1/4 cup powdered sugar: Used to finish the glaze with a delicate, sweet drizzle.

How to Make Orange Blossom Cake Recipe

Step 1: Whip the eggs and sugar

Start by beating the eggs and granulated sugar together for 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial because it dissolves the sugar and adds air to the mixture, resulting in a lighter, fluffier cake.

Step 2: Mix the wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil, milk, vanilla extract, and orange rind. These ingredients bring moisture and fragrance that will become the cake’s heart and soul.

Step 3: Combine dry ingredients

In another bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Making sure these are evenly mixed helps ensure that your cake rises consistently and tastes balanced.

Step 4: Incorporate half the dry ingredients

Add half of the dry ingredients to the whipped egg mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. This prevents overmixing which can make the cake dense rather than soft and tender.

Step 5: Add the wet mixture

Pour in the wet ingredients and continue mixing gently on low until everything is evenly blended. This keeps the batter light while integrating the beautiful orange flavor.

Step 6: Add remaining dry ingredients

Finally, fold in the rest of the dry ingredients until combined. Be careful not to overmix — just enough to bring everything together for the ideal crumb.

Step 7: Prepare for baking

Grease a bundt pan well to ensure your cake releases easily after baking. Pour the smooth batter evenly into the pan, ready for its transformation in the oven.

Step 8: Bake to perfection

Bake at 350°F for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean. You’ll know the cake is ready when its edges pull slightly away from the pan and the top is golden.

Step 9: Make the glaze

While the cake bakes, combine the butter, granulated sugar, orange juice, and orange blossom water in a small saucepan. Heat gently until the sugar dissolves and the glaze becomes smooth, which adds moistness and a burst of flavor.

Step 10: Pour glaze over warm cake

As soon as the cake comes out of the oven and while it’s still in the pan, pour half of the glaze evenly over it. This step allows the cake to soak up the citrusy sweetness for ultimate flavor depth.

Step 11: Cool the cake

Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan. This cooling phase helps the cake set so that it can be removed without crumbling.

Step 12: Finish with powdered sugar glaze

Add powdered sugar to the remaining glaze, thinning it as needed. Drizzle this over the fully cooled cake for an elegant and sweet finish that also intensifies the orange blossom flavor.

Step 13: Top with fresh greens and flowers

To embrace the floral theme, garnish your Orange Blossom Cake Recipe with edible foliage like mint leaves or delicate jasmine and orange blossoms. It not only looks stunning but lifts the aroma and overall experience.

How to Serve Orange Blossom Cake Recipe

A round, yellow cake with a smooth texture is placed on a white plate, decorated on top with green leaves and small white flowers. The cake has three visible layers, each separated by a light brown drizzle running down the side. Part of the cake is sliced, showing the soft inside. Next to the cake on the white marbled surface is a small white jug with a spoon inside, holding more light brown drizzle. In the background is a clear glass bottle filled with milk. The setting includes a white cloth partly under the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple touches like fresh mint sprigs or edible flower petals highlight the floral and citrus flavors in this cake. These garnishes add a pop of color and an inviting aroma that will make your presentation unforgettable.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. A fresh fruit salad with segments of orange or berries can add a refreshing balance, perfect for brunch or dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual slices with a drizzle of extra glaze and arrange on delicate dessert plates adorned with orange zest curls. For a special touch, present the cake with a pot of herbal tea like chamomile or mint to mirror the soothing floral notes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Orange Blossom Cake Recipe tightly covered at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, place slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay moist and flavorful for up to five days.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve its delicate texture and fresh citrus notes.

Reheating

If you want to warm a slice before serving, pop it in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This briefly enhances the aromas and melts the glaze slightly, making each bite extra comforting.

FAQs

Can I use orange zest instead of orange rind in the Orange Blossom Cake Recipe?

Yes, orange zest is essentially the same as orange rind and can be used interchangeably. Just be sure to avoid the bitter white pith beneath the orange skin for the best flavor.

What does orange blossom water taste like?

Orange blossom water has a delicate, floral aroma with subtle citrus undertones. It adds a fragrant, slightly exotic twist that makes this cake unique and memorable.

Is it necessary to use a bundt pan for this cake?

While a bundt pan gives the cake a beautiful shape and helps glaze absorption, you can bake it in a regular round or loaf pan. Just adjust baking time and test for doneness accordingly.

Can I substitute the oil with butter in the batter?

Yes, you can replace oil with melted butter for a richer flavor, but the cake may be slightly denser. The oil helps keep this recipe extra moist and tender.

How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick in the center: if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. The edges should also pull away slightly from the pan for a good indication.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so special about sharing a cake that carries the fresh bight of citrus combined with gentle floral notes. This Orange Blossom Cake Recipe is more than just a dessert — it’s a celebration of delicate flavors and simple, heartfelt baking. I hope you’ll give it a try and watch it become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire, perfect for any moment when you want to add a little sunshine to your table.