Lemon/Orange Pound Cake

Lemon/Orange Pound Cake

Have you ever experienced the blissful delight of a freshly baked pound cake, with its aromatic citrus essence wafting through the house? Well, let me tell you, nothing quite compares to the delightful tang of a Lemon/Orange Pound Cake! This zesty treat is a wonderful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, creating a moist and scrumptious dessert that is perfect any time of the year. Trust me, one bite will leave you longing for more, and the best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make!

Pound cake with a citrus twist is not only easy to whip up, but it also brings back memories of family gatherings and sun-drenched picnics. I remember my grandmother would prepare this cake on sunny afternoons, and the smell would make its way into the garden, inviting everyone to the table. Just like our popular Vanilla Bean Ice Cream recipe, this cake has that special nostalgic touch that makes it perfect for family get-togethers or a quiet evening at home. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this delightful Lemon/Orange Pound Cake!

What is Lemon/Orange Pound Cake?
Have you ever wondered who came up with the quirky name “pound cake”? Legend has it that the original recipe called for a pound each of flour, butter, sugar, and eggs—no weighing scales necessary! Interestingly, this cake has morphed over the years, allowing flavor innovations like the zesty lemon and orange combination we’re featuring here. You could say it’s a sweet testament to the saying that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach!” So, why not tickle your taste buds and embrace this flavorful twist by trying this delightful recipe yourself?

Why You’ll Love This Lemon/Orange Pound Cake:
This Lemon/Orange Pound Cake is truly a standout treat among desserts. Firstly, the citrus notes provide a fresh, uplifting flavor that brightens your day and goes perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. Secondly, making it at home is budget-friendly, allowing you to enjoy a bakery-quality cake without breaking the bank. Lastly, if you’re a fan of flavorful toppings, consider adding a simple glaze made from lemon juice and powdered sugar, or some orange zest for that extra zing! If pound cake is your thing, you might also enjoy our classic chocolate pound cake recipe that’s equally irresistible. So go ahead, take the leap and bake this lovely cake in your own kitchen!

How to Make Lemon/Orange Pound Cake:

Quick Overview

This delightful Lemon/Orange Pound Cake is a beautiful dessert that’s rich, tender, and bursting with citrusy goodness. In just about 20 minutes of prep time and an hour in the oven, you’ll have a golden masterpiece ready to serve! It’s the ideal dish to impress friends or enjoy during a cozy night in—its melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing flavors will certainly wow your guests! Let’s jump into how you can create your very own.

Key Ingredients for Lemon/Orange Pound Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• Zest of 1 lemon and 1 orange
• Juice of 1 lemon and 1 orange
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it is light and fluffy. Take your time; this step is crucial!
3. Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition.
4. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, and mix until it is just combined.
5. Stir in the lemon and orange zest, juice, and vanilla extract. You’ll love the vibrant color and scent it adds to the batter!
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The kitchen will smell heavenly!
8. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove from the pan and cool on a wire rack.
9. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and if you like, drizzle with a simple lemon-or-orange glaze. Enjoy!

What to Serve Lemon/Orange Pound Cake With:
Let your Lemon/Orange Pound Cake shine as a solo star, or pair it with delightful accompaniments! Fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can enhance this dessert beautifully. A dollop of whipped cream or a side of citrus-infused yogurt could also work wonders. Why not pair it with a refreshing herbal tea or a rich cup of coffee to elevate your afternoon snack? The options for sweet enjoyment are endless!

Top Tips for Perfecting Lemon/Orange Pound Cake:
To ensure your Lemon/Orange Pound Cake turns out perfectly, here are some golden tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter—this makes a world of difference!
• Be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the flour mixture; it helps keep the cake tender.
• Baking times may vary based on your oven, so check for doneness several minutes before the recommended time.
• Experiment with extra flavors! A hint of almond extract could be a fun twist.

Storing and Reheating Tips:
This delectable Lemon/Orange Pound Cake can be kept in an airtight container for about 3 to 4 days at room temperature. For longer storage, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in a warm oven for added warmth and flavor.

Now that you’ve got the ins and outs of making this incredible Lemon/Orange Pound Cake, it’s your turn to shine in the kitchen! Give it a try, and you’ll be rewarded with a delightful cake that speaks of love, warmth, and deliciousness. Happy baking!

Lemon/Orange Pound Cake

A delightful Lemon/Orange Pound Cake bursting with citrus flavor, perfect for any occasion.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Servings: 10 slices

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 2 sticks
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 zest of 1 lemon and 1 orange
• 1 juice of 1 lemon and 1 orange

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it is light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition.
4. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture alternating with milk, and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in the lemon and orange zest, juice, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Baking

1. Bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then remove from the pan and cool on a wire rack.

Serving

1. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally drizzled with a simple lemon-or-orange glaze.

Notes

Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix. Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.