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
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×4 or 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cloves, cinnamon, and salt.
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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.
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Stir in the orange juice.
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Add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk—start and end with the dry. Mix gently until just combined.
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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.
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Let cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
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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
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Let the cake cool completely before glazing to keep the glaze from soaking in.
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For extra citrus flavor, add an extra teaspoon of orange zest to the batter.
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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