Dessert

Deliciously Moist Orange Loaf Cake Recipe You Can’t Resist Recipe

ByJulian Dempsey January 20, 2026January 20, 2026

Introduction

This deliciously moist orange loaf cake is bursting with fresh citrus flavor and a tender crumb that’s hard to resist. Perfect for afternoon tea or a simple dessert, it’s an easy bake that brightens any day.

A rectangular orange cake with a golden brown crust sits on a dark wooden board against a white marbled texture. The cake has one thick layer of soft, moist orange sponge with small bits of orange peel visible inside. On top, there is a thick layer of smooth white icing that drips slightly down the sides. The icing is decorated with shiny, thin orange spiral slices arranged in a row. Around the cake, there are a few round orange slices placed for decoration. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tablespoon orange zest
¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup olive oil
Icing sugar for dusting

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to combine the dry ingredients evenly.
Step 3: In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, sugar, eggs, orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly until smooth.
Step 4: Gradually whisk the olive oil into the wet mixture until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix to keep the cake tender.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the top is deep golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Once cooled, dust the loaf with icing sugar if desired, then slice and serve.

Tips & Variations

For a more intense orange flavor, add a tablespoon of orange liqueur or a little extra zest to the batter.
If you prefer a lighter oil taste, substitute half of the olive oil with melted butter.
To make it gluten-free, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend, but expect a slightly different texture.
Add a handful of chopped walnuts or almonds for extra crunch and flavor.
For a glossy finish, brush the warm cake with an orange glaze made from juice and sugar right after baking.

Storage

Store the orange loaf cake tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Warm slices slightly before serving to revive the moistness.

How to Serve

A rectangular orange cake loaf is shown with one side sliced to reveal its soft, light yellow crumb with tiny orange specks. On top, there is a thick layer of white icing that drips slightly down the sides. The icing is decorated with thin, bright orange spiral slices laid flat across the top in a neat row. The cake is placed on a dark wooden board, which sits on a white marbled surface. Around the cake, there are fresh orange slices visible, adding a vibrant contrast. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use another type of yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes, you can use plain regular yogurt, but Greek yogurt helps keep the texture rich and moist. If using regular yogurt, the cake might be slightly less dense.

How can I tell when the cake is fully baked?

The best test is to insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. The top should also be a deep golden brown.