Description
This fragrant and moist Orange and Clove Loaf Cake is full of cozy citrus and spice. Perfect for holidays, tea time, or whenever you crave a comforting bite that smells like winter magic and sunshine.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp baking soda
½ tsp ground cloves
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp salt
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
Zest of 1 orange
2 tbsp (30ml) orange juice
½ cup (120ml) milk
For the Glaze:
½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
1–2 tbsp (15–30ml) fresh orange juice
Pinch of ground cloves (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×4 or 9×5-inch loaf pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cloves, cinnamon, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. Add in the orange zest and eggs, one at a time, beating well after each.
Stir in the orange juice.
Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk—start and end with the dry. Mix gently until just combined.
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar with 1–2 tbsp orange juice until smooth. Add a pinch of ground cloves if desired. Drizzle over the cooled loaf and let set.
Notes
Let the cake cool completely before glazing to keep the glaze from soaking in.
For extra citrus flavor, add an extra teaspoon of orange zest to the batter.
This loaf keeps beautifully for several days and freezes well (without the glaze).
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 50
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American