This amazing Orange Pound Cake is rich, buttery, and infused with fresh citrus flavor in every bite. Made in a simple loaf pan, it has a tender crumb, golden crust, and a bright orange glaze that takes it over the top. It freezes beautifully and is perfect for brunch, dessert, or afternoon coffee.
Why You’ll Love This Orange Pound Cake
This easy citrus cake feels elegant but comes together with simple pantry ingredients. The rich, buttery crumb and bright orange flavor makes this cake a hit with everyone that tries it! Often I’ll leave the glaze off- this makes it easy to slice up and freeze whenever you need a sweet little treat. But the orange glaze really takes it over the top!
- Moist, dense, and buttery texture
- Fresh orange flavor from zest and juice
- Simple loaf cake—no layering required
- Perfect for brunch or gifting
- Freezes beautifully
Tips for the Best Pound Cake:
- Use fresh orange zest and juice for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix—this keeps the cake tender.
- Bring ingredients to room temperature for even mixing.
- Let cake cool before glazing so it sets nicely.
Delicious Ways to Serve Orange Pound Cake:
This orange pound cake is incredibly versatile- keep it simple or dress it up depending on the occasion! Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy it. Whether you serve it simply or elevate it into a full dessert, this orange pound cake adapts beautifully to any moment—from casual mornings to special celebrations.
Add Fresh Fruit:
- Top with strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries
- Serve with citrus segments for a bright, fresh plate
- Add a side of macerated berries for extra sweetness
Make It Dessert-Worthy:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Add a dollop of whipped cream
- Drizzle with extra glaze or a light caramel sauce
Turn It Into a Parfait:
- Layer cubed pound cake with: yogurt or whipped cream and fresh fruit
Make a Sweet Open-Faced Sandwich:
Spread with cream cheese, marscapone or fruit preserves
Lightly Toasted:
Toast slices in a pan with a little butter- it creates a slightly crisp edge with a soft center
Dress It Up for Entertaining:
Serve on a platter with fresh mint, a dusting of powdered sugar, and candied orange slices
More Simple Dessert Recipes:
- Apple Blondies
- Chocolate Chip Brownies
- Healthy Lemon Bundt Cake
- Chocolate Zucchini Bundt Cake
- Double Chocolate Banana Cake
Orange Pound Cake
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp orange zest
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1/2 cup milk or sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Orange Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp fresh orange juice
- 1 tsp orange zest optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line a loaf pan (8×4 or 9×5) with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Mix in eggs one at a time. Add orange zest, orange juice, and vanilla.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk (or sour cream), mixing just until combined.
- Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- If desired, whisk glaze ingredients and drizzle over cooled cake. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh orange zest and juice for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix—this keeps the cake tender.
- Bring ingredients to room temperature for even mixing.
- Let cake cool before glazing so it sets nicely.
