Mom’s Orange Juice Cake is a delightful treat that brings a burst of sunshine to your dessert table. This cake is moist, fluffy, and infused with fresh orange juice, making it a perfect choice for any gathering or just a cozy afternoon snack. The sweetness from the glaze adds an extra layer of flavor, creating a cake that everyone will love.
What You’ll Need for Mom’s Orange Juice Cake
To make this scrumptious cake, you’ll need just a few ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what to gather:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (about 15.25 oz / 430 g)
- 1 small box instant vanilla pudding (about 3.4 oz / 96 g)
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil (180 ml)
- 1 cup fresh orange juice (240 ml)
For the glaze:
- 1 cup sugar (200 g)
- 1/2 cup orange juice (120 ml)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (113 g)
Step-by-Step Mom’s Orange Juice Cake Recipe
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (165 degrees Celsius). While it’s heating up, grease your bundt pan to ensure the cake comes out easily.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the yellow cake mix, instant vanilla pudding mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and fresh orange juice. Use an electric mixer to beat the mixture until it’s well blended — this should take about 2-3 minutes.
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Pour the Batter: Once the batter is ready, carefully pour it into the prepared bundt pan, making sure it spreads evenly.
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Bake: Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Prepare the Glaze: While the cake bakes, you can prepare the glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, 1/2 cup of orange juice, and unsalted butter. Stir the mixture until the sugar fully dissolves.
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Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is out of the oven and while it’s still warm, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to soak into the cake for maximum flavor.
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Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before inverting it onto a serving plate.
How to Serve Mom’s Orange Juice Cake
Mom’s Orange Juice Cake can be presented beautifully and enjoyed in many ways. Slice the cake into thick, generous pieces and serve it on a pretty plate. You can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant touch or add a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat, or serve it as a sweet finish to your family dinner.
Expert Tips for Mom’s Orange Juice Cake
- Fresh Juice Matters: Using fresh orange juice will give the cake a brighter and more authentic flavor compared to bottled juice.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate it to extend its shelf life.
- Add Zest: For an extra zing, consider adding some grated orange zest to the batter. It enhances the orange flavor and adds a nice texture.
Mom’s Orange Juice Cake FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes! While yellow cake mix is traditional, you can experiment with lemon or vanilla cake mix for a different taste.
How do I know when the cake is done?
You can check whether the cake is done by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Mom’s Orange Juice Cake is a fun and flavorful treat that anyone can make. With its bright orange flavor and moist texture, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Give it a try, and enjoy a slice of happiness!