Servings: 8–10 slices
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35–45 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Calories per Serving: Approximately 280–320 kcal
Macros (Approx. per Serving):
Protein: 5–6g
Carbs: 35–40g
Fat: 14–16g
Fiber: 1g
Introduction
Bright, fresh, and incredibly soft, this orange sponge cake recipe is the perfect homemade dessert for anyone who loves light cakes with a refreshing citrus flavor. Made with fresh orange zest, real orange juice, and a fluffy buttery sponge, every slice delivers a beautiful balance of sweetness and citrus aroma.
This easy orange sponge cake is perfect for afternoon tea, birthdays, family gatherings, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee. The combination of whipped butter, eggs, and fresh orange creates a tender cake with a soft crumb and bakery-style texture.
With simple ingredients and an easy baking method, this homemade orange cake brings a delicious citrus twist to a classic sponge cake recipe that everyone will enjoy.
Look at the Recipe
- Light & Airy Texture: Properly creamed butter, sugar, and eggs create a soft sponge with a delicate crumb.
- Fresh Citrus Flavor: Orange zest and juice add natural sweetness and a refreshing aroma.
- Simple Homemade Dessert: Uses everyday baking ingredients to create a beautiful cake for any occasion.
Ingredients Needed
For the Orange Sponge Cake
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup (120g) butter or margarine, softened
- ½ cup (120ml) milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 3 tbsp fresh orange juice
For Decoration
- Fresh orange slices (optional)
How to Make Our Orange Sponge Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Bring ingredients to room temperature. Allow the eggs and butter to sit at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smoother batter and softer cake texture.
Prepare the baking pan. Grease and line a round cake pan with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F).
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Beat the butter and sugar. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and creamy.
This step adds air to the batter, helping create a soft and airy sponge cake.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Orange Flavor
Add eggs gradually. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Add citrus flavor. Mix in vanilla extract, orange zest, and fresh orange juice until evenly combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Prepare the flour mixture. Sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
Combine gently. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the batter, alternating with milk.
Mix gently until the batter becomes smooth. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake dense.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Transfer the batter. Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface.
Bake until golden. Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool slightly before removing it from the pan.
Step 6: Cool and Decorate
Cool completely. Place the cake on a cooling rack and allow it to cool before decorating.
Add finishing touches. Garnish with fresh orange slices or a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage: Store the orange sponge cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days and bring to room temperature before serving.
Freezing: Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy with whipped cream, fresh berries, orange glaze, or a warm cup of tea or coffee.
